Cost of tree transplanting

Have a tree that needs transplanting? Perhaps you simply want to move it a few metres so that it doesn’t block as much sunlight. Or perhaps you’re moving house and you want to bring your favourite tree with you. Either way, we’ve broken down the typical cost of tree transplanting to help you plan.

How much does tree transplanting cost?

The total cost of moving a tree will vary based on a number of factors, including:

• The type of tree: Smaller, more slender tree types are typically easier to move.
• Size of the tree: The larger the tree, the heavier the rootball will be and the more expensive it will be to transplant.
• Age of the tree: Mature tree transplanting costs are typically higher than the cost to transplant a young tree. Mature trees are also more likely to have a tree preservation order (TPO) on them.
• Accessibility: Accessibility requirements could add to your costs, for instance, you may need a special permit to close the street.
• Your location: Labour costs will vary depending on where in the UK you’re based.
• The distance the tree needs to be moved: If you’re moving a tree to a new location that’s a great distance away, this will come with additional transportation costs.
• Site conditions: If there are complications with the tree’s new location, such as hilly land or a septic system in the way, this will require additional prep which will add to the cost.
• Removal method: There are two main ways to transplant a tree: digging by hand or using a hydraulic spade. A tree spade will always be used with a larger tree but may also be required when site conditions are preventing the tree from being dug out.

Average tree moving cost

Most tree moving jobs will require the services of a tree surgeon. Tree surgeon costs tend to start at around £120 per hour, but there may also be minimum fees in place. This is the same hourly rate that you can expect to pay for tree removal or tree planting.

With some tree transplanting jobs, your tree surgeon may need to work as a team with equipment, which could cause your costs to climb.

Large tree transplanting cost

Large trees come with heavier rootballs. This generally means that heavier equipment and larger teams are required to dig out and move the tree to its new location. This will add to the total tree transplanting cost.

Ultimately, the cost of transplanting a large tree will depend on how large a tree we’re talking about. To transplant a large, mature tree that’s over 100 years old or 35 feet tall, you could easily end up paying over £35,000.

Larger trees are also more difficult to move without damaging the root system. Damage can often occur during prep and after the move, due to environmental factors. For this reason, a tree surgeon may actually advise against moving your tree in some circumstances.

Additional costs of moving a tree

Depending on the job, you may face some additional costs when it comes to moving your tree. These could include:

• Wrapping the tree roots.
• A permit to move the tree.
• Care and maintenance of the tree after moving.
• Refilling the hole the tree has left after removal.
• Delivery charges if the tree is moving a great distance.
• Crane hire if the site has poor accessibility which means a tree spade can’t access it.

The above costs may be included in the quote you are given by your tree surgeon, but it’s always worth checking so that you can be sure.

Tree moving cost summary

• Larger trees will generally require more equipment and a bigger team than smaller trees.
• If a crane is needed, this could increase the cost of tree transplanting by thousands of pounds.
• Check with your local authority that your tree doesn’t have a TPO on it before proceeding.