anyone skidded a 20x24 structure before?

[Ormus_Patriarch]

I'm trying to figure out just how big you can go with a skiddable structure before it turns into a nightmare. Thinking about building an A-frame around 20x24, nothing crazy fancy, just enough to get me living on my land quick. My thought was to set it up near the road first and then, after a few years once I've got trees cleared and a driveway in, drag it back with a diesel pickup or maybe a small tractor. Has anyone here actually skidded something that size? I'm not sure if I'm underestimating the pulling force or overestimating how much weight those skids can actually take. I don't mind reinforcing the frame or bracing it if that helps, but I'm curious if it's even doable or if I should just design it from the start to be lifted and rolled instead.

 

[beachf0ssils]

I built a 20x24 A-frame on skids in 2023 while clearing land. I moved it about 200 feet using a diesel truck and strong tow straps. It was slow but worked fine. I used 6x6 wood beams with extra bracing and added steel under them to help it slide. If the ground is soft or bumpy, laying down logs or using a sled helps a lot. Keep it light and move it on a dry day.

 

[BigFoot8l]

I'm trying to figure out just how big you can go with a skiddable structure before it turns into a nightmare. Thinking about building an A-frame around 20x24, nothing crazy fancy, just enough to get me living on my land quick. My thought was to set it up near the road first and then, after a few years once I've got trees cleared and a driveway in, drag it back with a diesel pickup or maybe a small tractor. Has anyone here actually skidded something that size? I'm not sure if I'm underestimating the pulling force or overestimating how much weight those skids can actually take. I don't mind reinforcing the frame or bracing it if that helps, but I'm curious if it's even doable or if I should just design it from the start to be lifted and rolled instead.

When designing the base, think about how you'll move it. Bolt on some skids, reinforce the corners, and add cross-bracing to keep it from twisting. To cut down on friction, put steel or HDPE skid plates under the timbers. Even if you're skidding it, include lift points. Having safe spots for jacks or straps will really come in handy.

 

[ringt0n]

If you reinforce the skids and keep the weight reasonable, but you'll want a strong tractor or truck and good tie down points