How to Safely Move Your Grill and BBQ Equipment This Summer

Summer is grilling season, and for many families, the barbecue is the heart of backyard gatherings, celebrations, and Sunday afternoons. If you’re planning a move this summer, your grill and BBQ equipment need special care to arrive safely at your new home, ready for your next cookout.

At Alliance Relocation Services, we handle third-party services like packing, custom crating, disassembly, and appliance prep to take the stress out of your move. Here’s a detailed, practical guide on how to safely prepare, pack, and move your grill and BBQ equipment this summer without damage or hassle.

1. Plan Ahead and Check Local Restrictions

Before moving your grill:

✅ Check if your moving company allows grills on the truck. Many allow grills but not propane tanks due to safety restrictions.
✅ Plan for propane tank transport separately. Most movers and rental trucks prohibit transporting propane tanks. Arrange to use up your propane before the move or gift it to a neighbor.
✅ Clean and prep your grill in advance, ideally at least a week before your move.

2. Safely Handle and Dispose of Propane Tanks

Propane tanks are considered hazardous and cannot be moved in most moving trucks.

Here’s what to do:

• Use up as much propane as possible before your move.

• If you need to dispose of your tank, contact your local hazardous waste disposal facility or a propane supplier for safe disposal.

• If you plan to take your tank locally, transport it in an upright position in your personal vehicle, secured to prevent tipping.

Never pack a propane tank inside your moving truck or car trunk in hot weather.

3. Clean Your Grill Thoroughly

A clean grill is safer to move and prevents grease from leaking onto other belongings.

🧽 Burn off excess residue by running your grill on high for 15-20 minutes.
🧽 Allow the grill to cool completely.
🧽 Scrub grates with a grill brush to remove char and debris.
🧽 Empty and clean the grease tray.
🧽 Wipe down exterior surfaces with warm, soapy water.

This step also reduces the chance of attracting pests during the move.

4. Disassemble What You Can

Disassembling your grill makes it easier to move and protects fragile parts.

🔧 Remove propane tanks and disconnect hoses.
🔧 Remove and wrap grates, flavorizer bars, and burner covers in bubble wrap or towels.
🔧 If possible, detach the side shelves and pack them separately.
🔧 Tape down lids and doors to prevent them from swinging open during transport.

Keep all screws and small parts in a labeled bag so you can reassemble quickly at your new home.

5. Pack Your Grill for Safe Transport

Once your grill is cleaned and prepped:

• Wrap grates and removable parts in protective padding and place them in a clearly labeled box.

• Cover your grill with a moving blanket or heavy-duty grill cover to prevent scratches and dents.

• Secure the lid shut with bungee cords or rope.

• Keep your grill upright during transport. Laying it on its side may damage internal components.

If your grill is particularly large or expensive, consider custom crating services through Alliance Relocation Services to protect your investment during the move.

6. Packing BBQ Accessories and Tools

Your BBQ accessories also need careful packing to prevent damage and keep everything organized:

🍖 Clean your tools before packing.
🍖 Wrap sharp tools (skewers, knives, rotisserie rods) in towels or bubble wrap.
🍖 Place tools in a small, clearly labeled box so they’re easy to find for your first cookout.
🍖 Pack thermometers and delicate accessories in a separate padded box to avoid breakage.

7. Moving a Charcoal Grill? Follow These Extra Steps

Charcoal grills require additional considerations:

🔥 Remove all charcoal and ash. Dispose of properly, ensuring ashes are completely cool.
🔥 Clean the interior and exterior to remove soot and grease.
🔥 Wrap grates and interior parts separately.

8. Setting Up at Your New Home

Once you arrive at your new home:

✅ Inspect your grill for any damage that may have occurred during transport.
✅ Reassemble your grill, checking that all parts are secure and functional.
✅ Perform a safety test before lighting your grill, checking for leaks if you are reconnecting a gas supply.
✅ Restock charcoal, propane, or wood chips, and get ready for your first BBQ in your new backyard.

9. Let Professionals Help with Your Move

Moving heavy and awkward items like grills can lead to injury if not handled correctly. At Alliance Relocation Services, we offer:

✅ Disassembly and reassembly services for large outdoor items.
✅ Custom crating for high-value or delicate equipment.
✅ Professional packing services to protect your grill and BBQ tools.

By letting professionals handle these heavy, awkward, or fragile items, you protect your investment and reduce your stress during your summer move.

Final Thoughts

Moving your grill and BBQ equipment safely during a summer move is possible with the right preparation. By cleaning thoroughly, disassembling parts, packing carefully, and understanding propane transport regulations, you can ensure your grill is ready to fire up again at your new home.

At Alliance Relocation Services, we’re here to help you with your summer move so you can focus on what matters most: settling in, making memories, and enjoying your next cookout without hassle.

Contact us today to learn how our third-party moving services can simplify your summer move and protect your valuable outdoor equipment.