Once viewed as a temporary housing solution, mobile homes have become famous for budget-conscious homeowners seeking affordability and flexibility. However, unlike traditional houses with permanent foundations, mobile homes present a unique challenge regarding relocation. Understanding the factors influencing the cost of moving a mobile home is crucial for informed decision-making.
Are you considering moving your mobile home to a new location? Understanding the costs involved is crucial, whether relocating to a new community, downsizing or upgrading to a larger property. In this blog, we’ll unveil the various factors that affect the cost of moving a mobile home, providing a detailed and insightful guide to help you plan and budget for your relocation.
Also read Costs Involved in a Mobile Home: Inspections, Levelling, Renovation and More.
The Cost Breakdown of Moving a Mobile Home
The cost of moving a mobile home can vary significantly depending on several factors. Here’s a breakdown of the critical components that contribute to the overall price tag:
Size and Type: Unsurprisingly, the size of your mobile home is a significant cost driver. Single-wide homes (typically under 18 feet wide) are the most affordable to move, with costs ranging from $3,000 to $9,000 for distances up to 60 miles. Double-wide homes (around 20-24 feet wide) can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $15,000 for similar distances. Moving a spacious triple-wide home (24 feet wide) can reach the highest end of the spectrum, potentially exceeding $15,000 for short-distance moves.
Distance: The distance you’re moving the mobile home significantly impacts the cost. Transportation companies typically charge per mile, with the price increasing as distance increases. For example, a short local move within a 50-mile radius might be significantly cheaper than a long-distance move across several states.
Permits and Fees: Obtaining the necessary licenses for moving a mobile home can add to the overall cost. These permits can vary depending on your location and the size and weight of your home. Expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000 for permits. Additionally, some states might require specific route approvals or pilot car escorts for oversized loads, increasing costs.
Moving Company Expertise: The experience and expertise of your chosen moving company can influence the price. Reputable companies specializing in mobile home transportation might charge slightly more but offer the peace of mind that comes with experience in handling these unique structures. They often possess specialized equipment and permits for safe and legal mobile home moves.
Moving Services: The extent of services included in the move also affects the cost. An essential move might involve just the transportation of the mobile home itself. However, some companies offer additional services like disconnecting and reconnecting utilities, skirting removal and reinstallation (the material surrounding the base of the house), and even preparing the new mobile home site. These additional services can add convenience but come at an extra cost.
Mobile Home Condition: The overall condition of your mobile home can also affect the moving cost. If your home has significant structural damage or leaks or requires extensive repairs before transport, the moving company might charge a premium or even refuse to move it altogether.
Additional Considerations
While the cost breakdown provides a general framework, there are other factors to consider when calculating the total expense of moving a mobile home:
Time of Year: Moving a mobile home during peak season (summer) might lead to higher prices due to increased demand for moving services. If flexibility allows, consider exploring off-season moves, potentially resulting in cost savings.
Accessibility: The ease of access to both the origin and destination points can impact the cost. Suppose your mobile home is in a remote area with difficult access roads. In that case, the moving company might need to utilize specialized equipment or take longer routes, leading to higher charges.
Hidden Costs: Be sure to factor in potential hidden costs like temporary storage fees if there’s a delay between moving the mobile home and setting it up at the new location. Additionally, unexpected repairs or last-minute permit issues can add to the overall cost.
Average Costs for Moving a Mobile Home
While the cost of moving a mobile home can vary significantly based on the specifics of your move, here are some general estimates:
- Single-Wide Homes: $1,000 to $3,500
- Double-Wide Homes: $2,000 to $8,000
- Triple-Wide Homes: $5,000 to $25,000 or more
Tips for Reducing the Cost
Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Compare prices and services offered by several reputable mobile home moving companies.
Plan Ahead: The earlier you start planning your move, the better. This lets you secure the best rates and schedule your move during off-peak times.
Downsize and Declutter: The lighter your mobile home, the less it will cost to move. Declutter your belongings beforehand and consider selling or donating items you no longer need.
Handle DIY Tasks: If you’re handy, consider tackling tasks like disconnecting utilities or skirting removal yourself to save on labour costs. However, only attempt tasks
Best Companies for Long-Distance Mobile Home Moves
Heavy Haulers
- It specializes in moving mobile homes and can ship to any state in the U.S.
- Offers open transport, enclosed transport, and driveway delivery options
- Provides live tracking to keep owners informed during the move
Ship a Car, Inc.
- Offers mobile home moving services in addition to vehicle transport
- Has been in business for over a decade with an A+ BBB rating
- Provides free consultations and online quotes
Bennett Truck Transport
- Experienced in moving mobile homes long distances
- Offers competitive pricing and reliable service
- Serves all 50 U.S. states
J & S Mobile Homes
- Specializes in mobile home moving and setup
- Provides full-service moves, including disconnecting and reconnecting utilities
- Has a strong reputation for quality service
BB’s Mobile Home Transport
- Experienced in moving single-wide, double-wide, and triple-wide mobile homes
- Offers competitive rates for long-distance moves
- Serves the entire U.S. and Canada
The average cost to move a mobile home long distances ranges from $7,000 for a 100-mile move to $20,000 for longer distances—factors like home size, weight, and the specific services needed impact the final price. Working with a licensed, insured professional mover is essential for a safe and legal long-distance mobile home relocation.
Final Words
Moving a mobile home can be a complex and costly process. However, you can ensure a smooth and cost-effective relocation by carefully understanding the factors affecting cost and planning. Remember to research and compare prices, negotiate with movers, and consider alternative options to reduce expenses. With the proper preparation and strategy, you can successfully move your mobile home to a new location without breaking the bank.
FAQs
How Can I Move My Mobile Home for Free?
Moving a mobile home for free is tricky; some home parks offer incentives to fill vacant spots, potentially including covering the move-in costs. Negotiate with the park owner to see if they might cover relocation for your mobile home. If you have a valuable skill or service (e.g., handyman work), you might barter with a mobile home mover to offset the cost in exchange for your expertise.
What is the Per Mile Cost of Moving a Mobile Home?
The cost per mile to move a mobile home typically ranges from $4 to $5.50 for the towing vehicle and $1.50 to $1.65 per mile for pilot cars (if required). This is in addition to the base price, which depends on the mobile home’s size, distance traveled, and additional services included.
What is the Cheapest Way to Move a Mobile Home?
Do the prep work yourself, like disconnecting utilities, removing skirting, and decluttering belongings to reduce the mobile home’s weight. This lowers the overall moving cost.