Understanding the Basics: What Does Moving a Mobile Home Involve?
There’s a lot more to transporting a mobile home than just attaching it to a truck. It also comes with the hassle of advanced planning, legal documents, dismantling the home, and hiring specialists for transport. Furthermore, each aspect comes with some expense so it’s worth pondering over what goes into a mobile home move.
Some of the most critical factors are the age and size of the mobile home, how far of a distance you need to travel through, the terrain, the governing laws of the state, and so on. For example, the cost of relocating a single wide mobile home is significantly less than moving a double or triple wide home. Also, the condition of the mobile home’s structure will determine how much preparation and repairs need to be done ahead of the move.
Key considerations include:
- Type and size of the mobile home
- Distance and route conditions
- Required permits and inspections
- Utility disconnection and reconnection
- Escort vehicles or pilot cars
Average Cost of Moving a Mobile Home
The charges incurred while relocating a mobile home can range from a couple thousand dollars to well over $15,000, depending on various factors. In general, charges are divided into two categories: the transport fee and the setup fee. The expense increases for full-service moving options (disassembly, transport, reassembly, and utility setup) due to the additional tasks performed.
| Type of Move | Average Cost (Single-Wide) | Average Cost (Double-Wide) |
|---|---|---|
| Local Move (under 50 miles) | $3,000 - $5,000 | $5,000 - $8,000 |
| Long Distance (50+ miles) | $6,000 - $10,000 | $10,000 - $15,000 |
| Full-Service Move | $7,000 - $14,000 | $13,000 - $20,000 |
These figures include the cost of hiring professionals, but don’t include permits, foundation preparation, or potential repairs. It’s wise to request itemized quotes to understand exactly what each service includes.
Key Factors That Affect Mobile Home Moving Costs
1. Size and Weight of the Mobile Home
The dimension of your mobile home would be the simplest answering expense consideration. A single-wide is significantly easier and cheaper to transport versus moving a double-wide or even triple-wide. The logistical complexity poses higher costs when a structure is longer and heavier, hence the move becomes more expensive.
- In most of the cases single-wide homes can be moved at a lower cost as they are able to be shipped in one piece.
- Increasing size and weight of the homes results in higher transportation and labor costs since double-wides or larger homes need sectional splitting before moving.
2. Distance and Terrain
The distance movers must travel is one of the primary drivers cost incurred. Intra-state moves are generally less complicated, while interstate or over-the-road moves tend to come with added logistical costs such as fuel surcharges, overnight accommodations for staff, or tolls on the road uses.
- Relatively affordable moves, often termed short moves, are those below a fifty mile radius and these often do not need escort vehicles.
- Commercial moves which often take longer to accomplish can prove costly fancy to and including difficult terrains such as narrow roads, busy intersections, high traffic areas – and the hills.
3. Permits and Local Regulations
Each state and municipality has its own set of rules for moving a mobile home. This may include requirements for special transportation permits, inspection certificates, or even zoning approval for the destination site.
- Expect to pay $100 to $500 in permit fees.
- Some states require a certified engineer’s inspection, adding further costs.
4. Disconnection and Reconnection of Utilities
Disconnecting utilities from your old site and reconnecting them at the new one isn’t always included in a basic transport fee. These services can be provided by movers or third-party specialists.
- Utility disconnection: $300 to $800
- Utility reconnection: $500 to $1,200
5. Foundation Setup and Anchoring
Once the home is delivered, it must be anchored properly and placed on a foundation that meets code. This is essential for safety and to pass inspection.
- Concrete slab installation: $2,500 to $5,000
- Pier and beam foundation: $1,000 to $3,000
Professionals vs DIY: Which is best?
Coordinating the move by yourself may seem like an appealing idea, but the most efficient and safe option is to hire trusted licensed movers. Liscensed movers come with the necessary equipment, insurance, and legal compliance knowledge, making them the easier option.
| Advantages of hiring professionals | Potential risks of a DIY move |
|---|---|
| They handle permits and inspections | Legal penalties for non-compliance |
| Specialized equipment ensures safety | Higher chance of structural damage |
| Better insurance coverage for unexpected damage | Limited insurance options |
List Your Move to Get Bids From Multiple Moving Companies
1. List Your Move
Post your move details (dates, locations, inventory) on our job board. Movers with space already heading your way will see it.
2. Recieve & Compare Bids
Verified movers will bid for your move, giving you the power to compare services, pricing, and reviews.
3. Reserve Risk Free
Once you choose a mover, your payment is held securely until the job is completed to your satisfaction.
Can you move a mobile home yourself?
Technically, yes—but it's not recommended. Moving a mobile home requires special equipment, permits, and insurance. Hiring licensed professionals ensures the move complies with local laws and avoids costly damages.
How long does it take to move a mobile home?
The actual move might take one or two days, but the entire process—including permits, utility disconnection, and site preparation—can take 2 to 4 weeks depending on complexity and location.
Are permits required to move a mobile home?
Yes, nearly all states and local jurisdictions require transport permits, inspections, and zoning approval before a mobile home can be relocated. These permits ensure road safety and proper installation at the new site.
What are hidden costs when moving a mobile home?
Hidden costs may include permit fees, road tolls, pilot cars, foundation prep, utility setup, insurance, and emergency repairs. Always ask for a detailed estimate to avoid surprises.