How Much Does It Cost to Move a Mobile Home | LSM
Moving a mobile home costs between $5,000 and $20,000 on average, depending on the home's size and how far you're moving. A single-wide home typically costs $6,000 to $8,000 to move, while a double-wide can cost $8,000 to $15,000. This guide will break down every cost factor and help you plan your mobile home move with confidence.
Whether you're relocating across town or to a new state, understanding these costs upfront will help you budget properly and avoid surprise expenses during your move.
What Affects Mobile Home Moving Costs
Several key factors determine how much you'll pay to move your mobile home. Let's look at each one so you can estimate your costs more accurately.
Home Size Makes the Biggest Difference
The size of your mobile home is the most important cost factor. Here's what you can expect to pay:
Single-wide mobile homes (12-18 feet wide):
- Transport only: $1,000 - $2,000
- Full-service move: $5,000 - $8,000
Double-wide mobile homes (24-28 feet wide):
- Transport only: $2,000 - $3,500
- Full-service move: $8,000 - $15,000
Triple-wide mobile homes (36+ feet wide):
- Transport only: $3,000 - $5,000
- Full-service move: $12,000 - $25,000
Triple-wide homes cost the most because movers must separate the home into three sections, transport each piece separately, and then reassemble everything at your new location.
Distance Determines Your Final Bill
Moving a mobile home less than 100 miles costs an average of $7,000, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $15,000 or more. Costs increase for moves over 50 to 100 miles.
For short moves (under 20 miles), you might pay as little as $3,000. But cross-country moves can easily cost $20,000 or more due to fuel costs, permits for multiple states, and the need for escort vehicles.
The mover's fee typically varies from $6 to $15 per mile when it comes to relocating out of state. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration , interstate moves require special licensing and often involve multiple drivers as regulations vary by state.
Age and Condition Impact Pricing
Older mobile homes often cost more to move because they need extra preparation work. Mobile homes constructed before 1976 do not meet current safety standards and must not be relocated. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development enforces strict guidelines that prevent moving older models.
If your home needs repairs before moving - like fixing axles, reinforcing weak spots, or replacing tires - these costs will add to your total bill.
Transport-Only vs Full-Service Moves
You have two main options when moving your mobile home, and the choice dramatically affects your costs.
Transport-Only Moves: The Budget Option
A transport-only move involves attaching the mobile home to a towing vehicle, moving it to the new location, and detaching it from the vehicle. The mobile home must be move-ready, meaning you've already disconnected all utilities and exterior features like decks and porches.
This option costs $1,000 to $3,500 for moves up to 60 miles. You handle all the preparation work yourself, including:
- Disconnecting water, sewer, and electrical lines
- Removing skirting and stairs
- Taking down awnings or attached decks
- Securing loose items inside the home
Full-Service Moves: Complete Peace of Mind
Full-service moves include disconnecting utilities, obtaining permits, securing appliances, and setting up your mobile home at the new location.
Full-service moves cost $4,000 to $25,000 for moves up to 60 miles. The higher price includes:
- Professional disconnection of all utilities
- Removal and reinstallation of skirting
- Permits and inspections
- Setup at your new location
- Reconnection of utilities
- Leveling and anchoring your home
For most people, the extra cost is worth the convenience and peace of mind.
Additional Costs You Need to Know About
Beyond the basic moving fee, several other expenses can add to your total cost.
Permits and Legal Requirements
Permit fees can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. You need permits for:
- Transporting the home (required in every state it passes through)
- Setting up at your new location
- Connecting to utilities
Most professional moving companies handle permit applications for you and include the fees in your quote.
Escort Vehicles for Safety
Larger mobile homes that take up more than one lane during transport must be accompanied by one or more escort vehicles, also called pilot cars. Fees for this service range from $1.50 to $3.50 per mile.
Single-wide homes usually don't need escort vehicles, but double-wide and triple-wide homes almost always do.
Setup Services
If you don't choose a full-service move, you'll need to pay separately for setup at your new location. Professional mobile home movers often charge a fee of $3,000 to $5,000 for complete disassembly and reassembly of the mobile home at its new site.
Setup services include:
- Leveling your home on the new foundation
- Reconnecting utilities
- Installing skirting
- Rebuilding stairs and decks
Insurance Coverage
Professional movers include basic liability insurance, but you might want additional coverage for valuable items. Check with your current home insurance provider to see if your policy covers the move.
How to Save Money on Your Mobile Home Move
Moving a mobile home is expensive, but these strategies can help reduce your costs.
Get Multiple Quotes
Prices vary significantly between companies. Get at least three detailed quotes and compare what's included. Some companies offer package deals that might save you money overall.
Choose the Right Time
Moving during off-peak seasons (fall and winter) often costs less than summer moves. Weekday moves are also typically cheaper than weekend moves.
Do Some Work Yourself
Save on costs by packing your belongings and securing appliances yourself. Since professional packers cost between $220 and $2,220, doing it yourself can lead to substantial savings if you have the time and supplies to do it yourself.
You can also handle disconnecting simple utilities if you have experience, but leave complex electrical and plumbing work to professionals.
Plan Ahead
Last-minute moves cost more because companies charge premium rates for urgent jobs. Book your move at least 30 days in advance for better rates.
What You Can't Do Yourself
It's illegal to move a mobile home by yourself. You'll have to work with a licensed mobile home moving company, acquire a moving permit, and check building codes and other laws for where you're moving.
Professional mobile home movers have:
- Specialized equipment for lifting and transporting homes
- Knowledge of state and local regulations
- Proper licensing and insurance
- Experience handling unexpected problems
Trying to move a mobile home yourself isn't just illegal - it's extremely dangerous and could result in serious damage to your home or injury to yourself and others.
Choosing the Right Moving Company
Finding a good mobile home moving company takes research. Here's what to look for:
Experience and Licensing
Choose a company that specializes in mobile home moves and has been in business for several years. They should have proper licensing for the states you're moving through.
Clear, Detailed Quotes
Good companies provide written estimates that break down all costs. Avoid companies that give vague quotes or demand large upfront payments.
Insurance and Bonding
Make sure your chosen company carries liability insurance and is bonded. Ask to see proof of insurance before signing any contracts.
References and Reviews
Check online reviews and ask for references from recent customers. A reputable company will gladly provide references.
Planning Your Mobile Home Move
Successful mobile home moves require careful planning. Start this process at least 60 days before your planned move date.
Create a Moving Timeline
60 days before:
- Start researching moving companies
- Get quotes from at least three companies
- Begin permit applications
30 days before:
- Choose your moving company and sign contracts
- Arrange utility disconnections at your current location
- Schedule utility connections at your new location
2 weeks before:
- Confirm all details with your moving company
- Start packing personal belongings
- Notify neighbors of the moving date
Moving day:
- Be present for the entire process
- Take photos before and after the move
- Keep all important documents with you
Preparing Your Home for Transport
Your moving company will handle most preparation, but you can help by:
- Removing all personal belongings
- Securing cabinet doors and drawers
- Taking photos of your home's condition
- Removing batteries from smoke detectors
Understanding Weight Restrictions
If your mobile home is 800 square feet, it could weigh up to 40,000 pounds. The heavier the mobile home, the more equipment (and money) is needed to move it safely.
Weight affects several cost factors:
For the heaviest moves, some states specify that the toter weigh 32,000 lb. This means that a 40,000-lb manufactured housing unit plus the toter should weigh in at about 72,000 lb., well below the national maximum of 80,000 lb. for highways and should not be subject to overweight fees.
State-by-State Considerations
Moving regulations vary by state, and these differences affect your costs. Some states require:
- Special permits for certain home sizes
- Mandatory inspections before transport
- Police escorts for oversized loads
- Specific insurance minimums
Your moving company should handle these requirements, but it's good to understand why quotes might vary for similar moves in different states.
For local moves within Alberta , regulations are generally more straightforward than cross-border moves.
Final Thoughts
Moving a mobile home is a significant investment, but understanding the costs helps you make informed decisions. Remember that the cheapest option isn't always the best value - a few hundred dollars more for experienced movers can save you thousands in potential damage or delays.
Start planning early, get multiple quotes, and choose a reputable company with proper licensing and insurance. With the right preparation and professional help, your mobile home move can go smoothly and stay within budget.
Ready to move? Contact experienced Edmonton movers who understand the complexities of relocating homes and can provide expert guidance for your specific situation. While we specialize in traditional moving services, we can connect you with trusted mobile home moving specialists in the Alberta area.
