Today, there are around 4.3 million manufactured (mobile) home sites in the US. And around 31% of new manufactured homes are put in communities.
As remote work is becoming more mainstream and the internet is getting faster and more stable, we find ourselves no longer tied down to the traditional home. Opting for a mobile home can offer more freedom and excitement.
But a nomadic lifestyle isn’t always carefree. Mobile home transport can involve some surprisingly detailed tasks, so you want to be prepared ahead of time.
If you’re picking up and starting a new chapter of life soon, then you’ll want to read on. Here’s everything you need to know about mobile home transport.
The Cost of Moving a Mobile Home
Yes, the beauty of living as a nomad is you have the freedom to relocate your mobile home wherever, whenever. But that doesn’t necessarily mean it won’t come at a cost.
So how much does it cost to transport a mobile home? While it’ll differ depending on your personal situation, it can cost between $4,500 to $9,000 if you want to move 50 miles or under.
If you want to move 50 to 100 miles away, then this number jumps up to between $10,000 and $14,000. Obviously, the farther you go, the more it’ll cost, as it’ll take more fuel.
Also, there are 3 sizes for mobile homes: single, double, and triple sections. Single section units will be the cheapest to move since they don’t need to be dismantled and reassembled for transport. Heavier mobile homes will cost more since more fuel is needed to move them, as well as equipment and materials.
If you’ve got add-ons (such as an air conditioning unit or a shed), then this will add to your moving costs too.
You should also keep in mind that most movers won’t include cleanup services. You can request them, but it’ll come at an additional cost.
Consider the Zones
The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has divided up the country into zones, according to how susceptible they are to storms (such as tornadoes and hurricanes).
The zones are as follows:
- Zone 1: Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina
- Zone 2: California, Arizona, New Mexico, Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina
- Zone_3: All other states
Zone 1 has the strictest requirements, which means you can pretty much move from zone 1 to anywhere else you wish. However, you probably won’t be able to move from zone 3 to zone 1 because your mobile home likely doesn’t meet zone 1’s requirements. So before you start driving, check out the zone you’re going to and make sure you’re allowed there with your mobile home.
In addition to HUD’s zoning requirements, both counties and local areas have their own zoning ordinances. The good news is, if you’re planning on moving into a mobile home community, those won’t be an issue.
Otherwise, you’ll want to do some reading up beforehand, as there can be some particular regulations. For example, some municipalities don’t allow trailers that are older than 10 or 15 years old.
Mobile Home Transport Itself
Once you’ve double-checked that everything is ok for your move, then you’ll need to hire a mobile home transport company. Take a look at the ones available in your local area and then ask for estimates. You can then select the best one for your needs and budget.
Not only can these professionals move your mobile home safely and efficiently, but they can also help you sort out any necessary permits. It can be a headache sorting out this paperwork yourself, so it’ll be worth the money spent for them to handle this for you.
Tasks to Complete Before Moving
Like with a regular house, you’ll want to give ample notice if you’re leasing. Otherwise, you’ll face a fine for breaking your contract at the mobile home park.
Also, you’ll need to switch utilities, so check what the requirements are. Utility companies will have their own deadlines and possible fees, so research these thoroughly and carefully to avoid a financial shock. You’ll want to also contact the utility companies in the new place so you’re hooked up as soon as you arrive.
If you have access to the new site, you’ll want to check that it’s move-in ready. Otherwise, take some time to clear and level the ground, as well as cut down any obstructing trees.
Prepping Your Mobile Home for Your Move
Before the professional mover arrives, clear out everything inside. Basically, anything that’s not fixed or bolted down needs to be packed away. You can move those in your own car/truck or hire a mover for your belongings.
You’ll also want to check the wheels and tires. The moving company will check the wheels, tires, chassis, and axles for you, and some might even provide repairs. If they do, then you won’t need to have a mechanic step in.
Before you hand over your mobile home, close and secure all windows and doors. For extra security, cover them up.
Once it’s ready, the mover can then load your mobile home onto a large flatbed and tow it to your destination.
Handle Mobile Home Transport Smoothly
As you can see, if you’re living the van life, it may not be as simple as packing up and driving around whenever the fancy strikes you.
But by learning about mobile home transport, you now know what to do when you want to move a mobile home. This will make your future endeavors a lot easier!
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