Can Your Home Be Moved?
Not every mobile home can — or should — be moved. Before spending anything, assess these factors:
- Age: Homes built before 1976 (pre-HUD Code) may not survive transport. Many states prohibit moving pre-HUD homes into new parks.
- Condition: Significant structural damage, roof deterioration, or floor rot means your home may not survive the move. A professional inspector can assess this for $200–$500.
- Width: Single-wides are generally easier to move. Double-wides must be split and reassembled, significantly increasing cost and complexity.
- Destination: Your destination park (if applicable) must accept your home's age, size, and condition before you commit to a move.
Get a structural inspection first. Moving a structurally compromised home can cause it to collapse during transport. This $200–500 investment prevents a $30,000 disaster.
What Does It Cost to Move a Mobile Home?
Moving costs vary enormously by home size, distance, and local labor rates. Here's an honest breakdown:
| Service / Cost Item | Single-Wide | Double-Wide | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport (base, local <50 mi) | $2,000–4,000 | $4,000–8,000 | Per section for DW |
| Transport (long-distance, 50–200 mi) | $4,000–7,000 | $8,000–14,000 | Fuel, tolls, pilot cars add cost |
| Transport (200+ miles) | $7,000–12,000 | $12,000–20,000+ | Multi-day, multiple pilot cars |
| Permits (state + local) | $200–1,500 | $400–2,500 | Varies wildly by state |
| Utility disconnection | $200–500 | $300–700 | Electric, water, sewer, gas |
| Setup at destination | $1,500–4,000 | $3,000–8,000 | Blocking, leveling, skirting, anchoring |
| New foundation (if required) | $4,000–12,000 | $8,000–18,000 | Permanent foundation adds value but costs more |
| Utility reconnection | $500–2,000 | $800–3,000 | Depends on site preparation |
| Structural inspection | $200–500 | $300–600 | Strongly recommended before moving |
| Total (low estimate) | ~$4,600 | ~$9,000 | Short move, good condition, minimal prep |
| Total (realistic mid-range) | ~$8,000–12,000 | ~$18,000–28,000 | Most common scenario |
| Total (high end) | $15,000+ | $30,000+ | Long distance, foundation, full setup |
Rule of thumb: If total move cost exceeds 30–40% of your home's market value, you should seriously evaluate whether selling the home in place (if park allows) or abandoning and purchasing a different home makes more financial sense.
State Permit Requirements
Every state requires permits to move a manufactured home on public roads. Requirements differ, but you'll typically need:
- Oversize load permit from the state DOT (home width typically exceeds standard lane width)
- Trip permit — some states require permits county by county
- Pilot car(s) — most states require 1–2 escort vehicles for wide loads
- Move-in permit at the destination county/municipality
- HUD label verification — many states require the mover to verify the home was built to HUD Code
A licensed transporter handles most of this, but you're responsible for ensuring the destination has all required approvals. Do not pay a deposit to a mover until permits are confirmed.
Finding a Licensed Mover
Manufactured home movers are licensed differently from standard moving companies. Do not hire a general mover for this — you need a specialized transporter with experience and proper insurance.
- Ask for proof of license and bonding in your state
- Verify their MH-specific liability insurance (covers damage during transport)
- Get at least 3 quotes — prices vary significantly
- Ask for references from recent moves in your state
- Get the quote in writing — itemized by service
Full Moving Checklist
6–12 Weeks Before
- Confirm destination site is available and will accept your home
- Get structural inspection of your current home
- Research permit requirements in all states you'll travel through
- Get 3+ mover quotes — itemized in writing
- Notify your current park (lease terms may require 30–60 days notice)
- Contact your insurance company — coverage during transit is separate
- Check your home title and confirm it's clear of liens
2–4 Weeks Before
- Book your licensed transporter, sign contract
- Schedule utility disconnections (electric, water, sewer, gas)
- Apply for permits (mover typically handles transport permits; you handle destination permits)
- Notify mortgage servicer/lender if applicable
- Begin packing interior — remove anything that could shift and cause damage
Move Day
- Document home condition on video before transport begins
- Confirm pilot car arrangements
- Remove awnings, shutters, antennas, and exterior items
- Verify utilities are off
At Destination
- Document condition immediately upon arrival
- Confirm foundation, blocking, and anchoring before finalizing payment
- Schedule utility reconnections
- Have setup inspected (some states require this before occupancy)
- Update title and address with your state's DMV or housing agency