Thinking about relocating your manufactured home? Whether you’re seeking a change of scenery, a better community, or simply need to move for work or family, you might wonder if your manufactured home can make the journey with you.
This is a crucial question for homeowners, as moving a manufactured home involves more than just hitching it to a truck. In this article, we’ll break down whether it’s possible, what’s involved, and offer practical tips to help you decide and plan your move with confidence.
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Can You Move Manufactured Homes? Everything You Need to Know
When life changes, so do housing needs. Maybe you’re considering a new job in another state, found a better community, or want to relocate closer to family. If you own a manufactured home, a fair question arises: can you move manufactured homes?
The Simple Answer
Yes, manufactured homes—often referred to as mobile homes—can be moved. However, the process isn’t as simple as hitching them to a truck and driving off. There are important regulations, structural requirements, and logistical considerations that you need to keep in mind. In many cases, moving a manufactured home is a major project involving specialized professionals.
Let’s dive into how this works, what steps are involved, and what you need to consider.
Understanding Manufactured Homes and Their Mobility
What Are Manufactured Homes?
Manufactured homes are houses built in a factory, then transported to a specific site. Unlike traditional homes, they rest on a steel chassis, making relocation possible. But before 1976, “mobile homes” were built with fewer safety standards. In contrast, “manufactured homes” post-1976 meet strict federally mandated building and safety codes.
Can They Really Be Moved?
- Yes, but… Not all manufactured homes were designed with frequent moving in mind. While they offer more flexibility compared to traditional site-built houses, most are only moved once: from the factory to their initial site.
- Frequent, long-distance moves are possible but not always advisable—especially for older or double/triple-section homes.
Key Laws and Regulations for Moving Manufactured Homes
Before moving your manufactured home, it’s essential to understand the laws and rules involved. This protects your property, ensures community safety, and avoids legal trouble.
Top Legal Considerations
- Title and Ownership
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You must prove clear ownership and hold a valid title. This may involve settling liens or loans before you can move your home.
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State and Local Permits
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Every state and municipality has its own permitting process. You may need transportation permits, setup permits, or even inspection clearance before moving.
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HUD Code Compliance
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Homes built after June 15, 1976, must comply with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) standards. Local authorities may refuse to allow older homes to move if they don’t meet HUD or wind/load zone requirements.
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Moving Company Licensing
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Only licensed, bonded, and insured professional movers can legally relocate a manufactured home. DIY moving is rarely permitted due to safety and liability concerns.
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Community Rules and Zoning
- If your home sits in a manufactured home park, the management will have policies on moving in or out. Zoning laws also affect where you may place or relocate a home.
Step-by-Step: The Process of Moving a Manufactured Home
Moving a manufactured home is complex. Here’s a simplified breakdown of what’s involved:
1. Pre-Move Planning
- Check local and state regulations.
- Obtain necessary permits and documentation.
- Notify your park management if applicable.
- Contact utility companies for disconnect/reconnect services.
2. Inspection and Preparation
- Have the home inspected for structural soundness.
- Secure and pack all belongings.
- Remove or secure exterior features (awnings, porches, carports).
3. Hiring Professional Movers
- Research reputable manufactured home movers.
- Verify their licenses, insurance, and experience.
- Get written quotes and a detailed contract.
4. Disconnection and Separation
- Disconnect utilities: water, gas, electricity, sewer.
- Separate double or triple-section units (if applicable).
- Remove and prep skirting or foundations.
5. Transport
- Movers attach the home to specialized trailers.
- Police escorts and road clearances may be required for larger homes.
- Only certain roads/bridges are suitable, depending on size and weight.
6. Site Preparation and Delivery
- Prepare the new site—grading, foundation, and utility hookups.
- Once at the new location, the home is reassembled if needed.
- Movers anchor and level the home to code.
7. Final Steps
- Home is inspected again for code and safety compliance.
- Utilities are reconnected.
- You reinstall any exterior structures.
Benefits of Moving a Manufactured Home
Why move a manufactured home? Here are some compelling reasons:
- Flexibility: Move with your home to a better park, neighborhood, or state.
- Cost Savings: Often much cheaper than buying or building a new home.
- Familiarity: No need to leave your customizations, comforts, or memories.
- Sustainability: Reuse your current home rather than purchasing a new one.
Challenges and Risks When Moving a Manufactured Home
Relocating a manufactured home comes with its own set of hurdles:
- Structural Damage Risk: Older homes may suffer frame or siding issues during the move.
- Regulatory Barriers: Local rules can prevent, limit, or make moving prohibitively expensive.
- High Costs: May range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars depending on distance, size, and complexity.
- Insurance Requirements: Not all insurers cover homes during transit or at the new site without inspection.
Non-compliance with any law can result in hefty fines or even your home being impounded. Always do your homework!
Practical Tips and Best Practices
Moving a manufactured home isn’t an everyday adventure. These tips will help the process go smoothly:
- Start Early: Planning six months out is not too soon.
- Budget Carefully: Get multiple quotes and include “hidden” costs such as site preparation, permits, legal fees, and reconnections.
- Inspect Everything: Both the old and new sites need to meet code requirements, and your home’s structure should be checked before moving.
- Document Everything: Keep records of licenses, permits, inspections, and insurance.
- Communicate Clearly: Update your moving team and local officials to avoid misunderstandings or delays.
- Review Community Rules: If you’re entering a new park or development, request their guidelines in writing.
- Update Your Address: Notify postal services, banks, and billing entities of your move.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To keep your move stress-free, watch out for these pitfalls:
- Failing to check the age of your manufactured home against local move-in requirements.
- Hiring unlicensed or uninsured movers.
- Neglecting utility requirements and site preparation costs.
- Ignoring weather and road conditions on moving day.
- Forgetting to check if your home’s width exceeds state “oversized load” standards, which can require expensive permits or escorts.
Cost Factors Involved in Moving a Manufactured Home
Moving costs can vary greatly. Here’s what influences the price:
- Size and Weight of the Home: Single-wide moves cost less than double- or triple-wide homes.
- Distance: Longer distances mean higher fuel and labor charges.
- Preparation: Disassembly, skirting removal, and foundation work add to the bill.
- Reassembly: Anchoring, permits, and utility hookups also cost extra.
- Additional Services: Storage, escorts, or shuttle trucks can cause costs to climb.
Typically, moving a single-wide within 50 miles ranges from $5,000 to $8,000; double-wides start around $10,000 and up, depending on location.
Tips for a Smooth Relocation
- Work With Experts: Rely on professional movers who handle manufactured homes specifically.
- Shop Around: Get several quotes and check references.
- Stay Organized: Use a checklist to keep track of pre-move, move-day, and post-move tasks.
- Check for Hidden Fees: Watch for costs related to weight limits, access roads, or site preparation.
- Insurance: Make sure your mover’s insurance and your homeowner’s policy cover any possible damage.
Quick Comparison: Manufactured Home Moves vs. Traditional Site-Built Moves
| Aspect | Manufactured Home Move | Site-Built Home Move |
|---|---|---|
| Home is relocated | Yes | No (site-built homes generally can’t be moved) |
| Cost | Moderate to High | Not applicable |
| Permits needed | Multiple levels | Not needed, unless building new |
| Logistics | Complex—needs pros | New home purchase or build needed |
| Customization kept | Yes | Must move belongings only |
Conclusion
Moving a manufactured home is absolutely possible—but not without planning, permits, and skilled help. Understanding the laws, working with experienced movers, and carefully budgeting are key for a successful move. Whether you want to swap neighborhoods, states, or merely spaces within a park, relocating your manufactured home is a big step, but one you can accomplish with the right approach.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I move my manufactured home myself, or must I hire a professional mover?
Moving a manufactured home yourself is not allowed in most places. Laws require licensed, bonded, and insured mobile home movers to perform the job safely and legally. This protects you, your home, and others on the road.
2. How do I get permits for moving my manufactured home?
You’ll need to contact your local and state government offices—usually the building or transportation departments. A professional moving company often handles permits for you as part of their services.
3. Are there restrictions on moving older manufactured homes?
Yes. Many states and municipalities restrict or prohibit moving homes built before June 15, 1976, when federal HUD codes went into effect. Some communities won’t allow homes that don’t meet wind, snow, or energy standards.
4. What kind of insurance do I need during the move?
You’ll require transit insurance, usually provided by your moving company, and should check with your homeowner’s insurance agent about coverage both during the move and once your home is set up at the new site.
5. How long does it take to move a manufactured home?
The entire process, from planning to setup, can take several weeks to a few months. Moving day itself may last only a day or two, but permits, inspections, and site prep add significant time to the schedule.
With the right preparation, moving your manufactured home can be a rewarding experience—opening a new chapter without leaving your beloved home behind.
