How Much Does It Cost to Move a Mobile Home in 2024?

Moving a mobile home can seem like a complicated and expensive task, but with proper planning and the right information, it becomes much easier to understand. If you're wondering how much it costs to move a mobile home in 2024, 

1. Understanding the Basics of Moving a Mobile Home

Before diving into the exact cost, it’s important to know what goes into moving a mobile home. Unlike a regular move, relocating a mobile home requires specialized equipment, permits, and skilled professionals. Moving a mobile home isn’t just about towing it to a new location; it involves disconnecting utilities, preparing the home for transport, and ensuring that the new site is ready for installation.

Key Steps in Moving a Mobile Home

• Disconnecting utilities (electricity, water, and sewage)
• Removing skirting and other external features
• Securing the mobile home to prevent damage during transport
• Transporting the home to the new location
• Reinstalling the home, including setting it on a foundation or piers
• Connecting utilities and ensuring everything is operational again

Each of these steps adds to the overall cost, which is why moving a mobile home requires careful budgeting.

2. How Much Does It Cost to Move a Mobile Home in 2024?

In 2024, the cost to move a mobile home varies depending on a few factors, including the size of the home, the distance of the move, and the complexity of the installation. On average, the cost can range between $3,000 and $10,000 or more, depending on your specific situation.

Cost Breakdown

1. Single-Wide Mobile Home: Moving a single-wide mobile home over a short distance (within 50 miles) typically costs between $3,000 and $5,000. For longer distances, expect to pay more due to fuel costs and the need for additional permits.

2. Double-Wide Mobile Home: Moving a double-wide mobile home is more expensive, usually ranging from $7,000 to $12,000. Since it’s wider, this type of home requires more work to dismantle and transport, which increases the cost.

3. Triple-Wide Mobile Home: Triple-wide mobile homes are the most expensive to move, often costing $10,000 or more. The larger the home, the more labor, permits, and equipment are needed to ensure a safe and secure move.

3. Factors That Affect the Cost of Moving a Mobile Home

There are several factors that can influence how much it will cost to move a mobile home in 2024. It’s important to consider these before getting a quote from a moving company.

Distance of the Move

The distance between your current location and the new one plays a significant role in the total cost. Shorter moves (under 50 miles) are generally less expensive, while long-distance moves (over 100 miles) will require more fuel and time, adding to the cost.

Size of the Mobile Home

As mentioned earlier, the size of your mobile home matters. Larger homes, like double-wides or triple-wides, require more time, labor, and special equipment to move safely, which increases the overall cost.

Permits and Regulations

You may need permits from local authorities to move your mobile home, especially if you're crossing state or provincial lines. These permits can add anywhere from $100 to $500 to the total cost. Additionally, some roads may have restrictions on the size or type of vehicles that can be used for transporting mobile homes, requiring special routes or escorts, which can also increase costs.

Site Preparation

If the new location for your mobile home isn’t prepared, you’ll need to factor in the cost of preparing the land. This can include leveling the ground, installing a foundation, or setting up utilities like water and electricity. The cost for site preparation can range from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on the complexity of the work required.

Extra Services

If you need additional services, such as removing and reinstalling skirting, decks, or porches, you’ll likely pay extra. These services can add $1,000 to $3,000 to the final bill.

4. How to Save Money on Moving a Mobile Home

While moving a mobile home can be expensive, there are a few ways you can save money.

Get Multiple Quotes

Always get quotes from at least three moving companies to compare prices. Be sure to ask for a detailed breakdown of costs so you can see exactly what each company is charging for. Some companies may offer discounts for certain services or be more affordable for long-distance moves.

Move During the Off-Season

Like with any moving service, the time of year can affect the cost. Moving companies tend to be busiest during the summer months, which means higher prices. If you can, schedule your move during the fall or winter when demand is lower, and you might be able to negotiate a better price.

Do Some Prep Work Yourself

If you're handy, consider doing some of the preparation work on your own. For example, you can remove the skirting or disconnect utilities yourself to save on labor costs. Just make sure you’re following any legal requirements or safety regulations.

Use a Reputable Company

It might be tempting to go with the cheapest moving company, but that could cost you more in the long run. A reputable company will ensure your home is moved safely, without any damage, and will follow all legal requirements. This can save you from expensive repairs or fines later on.

Final Thoughts

Moving a mobile home in 2024 can be a big undertaking, but with the right planning and information, it doesn’t have to break the bank. The cost will depend on factors like the size of your home, the distance of the move, and any additional services or permits you need.

If you’re looking to move a mobile home this year, make sure to get quotes from multiple companies, prepare the new site in advance, and consider doing some of the work yourself to cut down on costs. With careful planning, you can make your move as affordable and smooth as possible.