Is It Worth the Expense to Move My Mobile Home?

Given that the word mobile is in the name, you might assume that moving a mobile home would be a relatively straightforward process. You'd be wrong.

Deciding whether to relocate your mobile home can be a complex decision, with several variables that should be considered.

Is it worth it? Well, it depends.

In this article, we'll explore the various aspects that play a role in determining the cost of moving a mobile home, such as distance, size, age, and more. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision and guide you through the process, so you can weigh the pros and cons and determine if moving your mobile home is truly worth the investment.

Factors in Calculating the Cost to Move a Mobile Home

Moving Distance

The distance between your current location and your new destination significantly impacts the cost of moving your mobile home. Generally, the further you need to move, the higher the price. This is due to increased fuel consumption, travel time, and potential overnight stays for the moving crew.

Mobile Home Size, Height, and Weight

The dimensions and weight of your mobile home directly influence the moving costs. Larger and heavier mobile homes require more specialized equipment, additional manpower, and sometimes even road modifications, such as removing traffic signs or trimming trees, to accommodate the move. All of these factors contribute to increased expenses.

Mobile Home Age and Condition

The age and condition of your mobile home can also affect the moving cost. Older mobile homes may require more careful handling and preparation to avoid damage during transit.

Furthermore, suppose your mobile home is in poor condition. In that case, it might be more prone to structural damage or even collapse during the move, leading to additional costs for repairs or reinforcement. In most cases, if your mobile home is at risk for structural damage, a professional moving company will advise you of the issue and turn down the request to move the home.

Mobile Home Material

The material used in the construction of your mobile home can also play a role in determining the moving cost. Some materials, such as metal or vinyl siding, are more durable and can withstand the rigors of relocation better than others, like wood or plaster. The more resilient the material, the lower the risk of damage and, potentially, the lower the moving cost.

Foundation Type

The type of foundation your mobile home is built on affects the moving process and costs. For example, homes on a permanent foundation (such as a basement or crawl space) require more labor to disconnect utilities and separate the home from the foundation, while homes on a temporary foundation (such as piers or blocks) may be easier to prepare for relocation.

Remember that after the move, you'll also need to consider the costs of setting up a new foundation at your new location.

Pre-Move Preparations

Before embarking on the journey to move your mobile home, you'll have some work to do to ensure that all necessary preparations are made. 

This includes disconnecting utilities, draining the sewage system and water heater fuel tank, covering windows and vents with plastic to keep out debris, removing steps or porches if necessary, and inspecting the home for structural damage.

The moving company you choose will handle the other logistics based on your answers to questions about the details of your home.

Be prepared; the answers you give them will be used to ensure they have the appropriate moving tools and equipment, such as trailers, trucks, and escort vehicles.

Having the right equipment to safely and securely transport your mobile home is crucial, as it can prevent potential damage and reduce the risk of accidents during transit.

Liability insurance is another critical aspect to consider during the pre-move phase. Ensure that your moving company of choice has the required coverage for any damages that may occur during the move.

 It's also essential to obtain the necessary permits and inspections before the relocation, as different states and municipalities have specific regulations governing the transportation of mobile homes. Be sure to check with your local authorities to ensure you comply with all requirements.

In most cases, escort vehicles are required for the transportation of oversized mobile homes, as they help navigate and manage traffic during the move. Your moving company will arrange these vehicles and factor in their costs when planning your move.

Additionally, it's important to consider any pre-move repairs needed for your mobile home. Addressing structural issues, leaks, or other damage before the move can help prevent further complications and additional expenses during the relocation process.

Lastly, don't forget to consider any additional home features, such as porches, decks, or carports, that may need to be disassembled and transported separately. These features can add complexity and cost to your move, so be sure to factor them into your overall moving budget.

Choosing a Moving Company

The first step is to ensure that the company you choose is a licensed and insured transportation provider. This ensures that they are legally allowed to transport mobile homes and provides you with peace of mind knowing that you're working with a reputable and reliable company.

When researching potential moving companies, it's important to inquire about their services. Some companies provide a comprehensive package, including disassembling, transporting, and reassembling your mobile home, while others may only offer transportation services. 

Knowing what each company provides will help you make an informed decision and choose the best fit for your needs.

As you narrow down your options, remember to ask questions about the mobile home moving process. Inquire about their experience in moving homes similar to yours, their estimated timeline for the move, and any potential obstacles they foresee during the relocation. 

It's also helpful to ask for references from past clients to get a sense of the company's reliability and customer satisfaction.

By taking the time to thoroughly research and vet potential moving companies, you can feel confident in your choice and ensure a smoother and more efficient relocation for your mobile home.

Additional Costs and Considerations

In addition to the basic expenses associated with moving your mobile home, you should be aware of a few other costs and considerations. One such factor is the setup services at your new location.

This includes connecting utilities, anchoring the home, and leveling it on the new foundation. Depending on the complexity of the setup, these services can add to the overall cost of your move.

You'll need to research and familiarize yourself with the local laws in both your current location and destination. This will help you avoid potential fines, delays, or even legal issues during your move. 

Different jurisdictions will likely have specific rules and regulations governing mobile home transportation and installation, so don't assume the laws of your current location will match those of your destination - it's a common and expensive mistake.

Taking into account these additional costs and considerations can help you create a more accurate budget for your move and ensure that you're well-prepared for every aspect of the mobile home relocation process.

How to Save Money on the Cost to Move a Mobile Home

If you're concerned about the expenses associated with moving your mobile home, there are several strategies you can employ to save money without compromising the safety and efficiency of the move.

First, consider obtaining multiple quotes from different moving companies. Look for value rather than just price. Is one company cheaper but leaving something out or requiring you to book/pay separately? Price isn't necessarily the best value.

Next, if you can, be flexible with your moving schedule. Some moving companies may offer discounted rates during their off-peak seasons or days of the week. If possible, plan your move during these less busy times to take advantage of potential savings.

Additionally, if you have a truck and trailer, consider handling some aspects of the move yourself. While it's essential to leave the actual transportation of the mobile home to professionals, you can save money by disassembling and reassembling additional home features like porches, decks, or carports on your own.

 If you already have the transportation equipment needed, it may save you some money, but the cost of renting a truck and trailer quickly removes this as a cash-saving option.

Lastly, don't forget to inquire about potential discounts or promotions from your chosen moving company. Some companies may offer discounts for referrals, returning customers, or bundled services. By being proactive and asking about available promotions, you may be able to secure a more affordable rate for your move.

By following these tips and being mindful of your budget, you can minimize the cost of moving your mobile home while ensuring a safe and successful relocation.

So, What's the Best Choice?

Deciding whether it's worth the expense to move your mobile home is a personal decision that requires careful consideration of various factors, including the cost, your mobile home's age and condition, and the regulations governing mobile home relocation. By evaluating each aspect and seeking the guidance of professional movers, you can make an informed choice that best suits your needs and budget.

In this article, we've explored the many factors contributing to the cost of moving a mobile home. We also provided tips for saving money on your move and discussed the feasibility of relocating older mobile homes. Armed with this information, you can confidently approach the mobile home relocation process and determine if moving your home is truly worth the investment.