So picture this: it’s 97 degrees, I’m sweating in places I didn’t know could sweat, and I’m standing in front of my single-wide home trying to smile through the chaos.
My mobile home was getting ready to move from a quiet backroad lot to a lakeside park I’d been dreaming about for years. I thought I was emotionally ready, but then came the invoice.
Whew. If you’ve ever wondered how much does it cost to move a mobile home, you’re not alone—and baby, it’s not pocket change.
Moving a mobile home is like buying a plane ticket and then realizing baggage isn’t included. You think you know the price, and then bam—permits, pilot cars, utility hookups, and suddenly you’re rethinking life choices.
But don’t panic. I lived through it, paid the bills, and took notes. If you’re considering moving your mobile home, I’ve got the real scoop you won’t find in those sugar-coated brochures.
Why is moving a mobile home so darn expensive?
You’d think dragging a house down the highway would be simple, but nope—it’s a whole production. The base rate to move a single-wide? Around $3,000 to $8,000. Double-wide? Now we’re talking $10,000 to $15,000, easy. But that’s just transport.
What really jacks up the price are the extras. Think of them as the mobile home version of airline fees. You’ll need:
- Permits for every state or county line you cross.
- Licensed movers with special trailers and trucks.
- Pilot cars for oversized loads (yes, those guys with flashing lights).
- Disconnecting and reconnecting utilities, skirting, steps, and decks.
Add in terrain complications—hilly roads, muddy driveways, or narrow streets—and the cost rises faster than gas prices in July.
What factors change the price of moving a mobile home?
Not all mobile homes are created equal, and neither are their moves. Size is the obvious factor—double-wides cost more than single-wides because they’re literally split in half for transport. Triple-wides? Just don’t.
Distance is the next biggie. Local moves (under 50 miles) are more affordable, but anything long-haul can double or triple the cost. And remember, it’s not just mileage. Rural areas mean tougher routes and possibly escort requirements.
Then there’s age and condition. If your mobile home is older than your favorite pair of jeans, it might need structural reinforcements before it can safely hit the road. Movers will assess whether it can survive the journey or fall apart like a dollar store dresser.
Can you move a mobile home by yourself?
I know, we all have that one cousin who swears he could rent a flatbed and haul it like a boss. But mobile home moving is a heavily regulated industry. You need licensed professionals with the right equipment, insurance, and knowledge of state-specific transport laws.
Trying to DIY a mobile home move is like trying to perform surgery with kitchen scissors. It might seem thrifty, but it’s dangerous, illegal in most places, and could destroy your home—or someone else’s car. Trust me, this is one time you don’t want to cut corners.
What’s included in the cost (and what’s not)?
Here’s where it gets tricky. Some companies offer all-inclusive packages, but others will hit you with à la carte charges like it’s a sushi menu. Here’s a little cheat sheet to help you stay ahead:
| Service | Typically Included? | Additional Cost? |
| Basic transport | Yes | — |
| Permits & escorts | Often | Sometimes extra |
| Utility disconnection | No | $500–$1,000 |
| Foundation work | No | Varies widely |
| Skirting, decks, steps | Nope | $1,000+ |
| Setup at new site | Maybe | Often separate charge |
Always get a detailed breakdown. Ask what’s included. Ask again. Then read the fine print.
How to Get the Most Bang for Your Buck When Moving a Mobile Home
If you’re ready to move your home without losing your mind (or your savings), here’s what I wish I’d known from the start.
First, get multiple quotes. I thought one company seemed solid and stopped there. Rookie move. After comparing three later on, I realized I could’ve saved about $2,000.
Next, prep your home like it’s going on a first date. Secure everything inside, remove breakables, drain the plumbing, and brace any structures that might shift.
Then, ask about hidden costs. Will they handle utility hookups? What about blocking and leveling at the new site? Don’t assume.
Finally, time it right. Avoid rainy seasons, holiday weekends, and tight real estate markets. Movers get booked up fast, and last-minute changes will cost you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I live in my mobile home during the move?
Oh honey, no. You’ll be kicked out long before the wheels hit the road. Movers won’t transport a mobile home with anyone—or anything alive—inside. You’ll need temporary lodging, so plan for a few days at least.
2. How long does it take to move a mobile home?
It’s not a one-day job. The physical transport might only take a few hours, but the prep, permits, and setup can stretch the timeline to a full week or more. Always build in buffer time.
3. Does homeowners insurance cover the move?
Most policies don’t cover transport damage unless you add a special rider. Your moving company should carry insurance too, but confirm that and ask what’s covered (and what’s not).
4. Can you move a mobile home in winter?
Technically yes, but it’s not ideal. Ice, snow, and frozen ground can delay things or damage your home. If you can wait until spring or fall, you’ll probably save on headaches—and repairs.
The Final Scoop Before You Jump In
So how much does it cost to move a mobile home? It’s not cheap, but it doesn’t have to be a financial disaster either. I walked away with my dream location, a little less money, and a lot more wisdom. If I could do it again, I’d ask more questions, pad my budget by at least 20 percent, and stock up on wine ahead of time.
At the end of the day, moving your mobile home is a bold move—literally. It’s stressful, sure, but it’s also empowering. You’re taking your house (and your future) into your own hands. Just don’t forget to secure your dishes.
Got questions, horror stories, or victories to share? Drop them in the comments. Because if there’s one thing better than surviving a mobile home move—it’s bonding over the chaos with someone else who has.
