Moving a mobile home requires careful planning and expertise. With more than 22 million Americans living in manufactured homes, understanding the proper relocation process is crucial for a successful move.

Whether you're planning to move your manufactured home across town or to another state, following these essential steps ensures safety, legal compliance, and peace of mind.

This comprehensive guide covers everything from understanding HUD safety standards to coordinating with utility companies and professional movers. Learn how to relocate your manufactured home correctly and safely with our detailed checklist.

Key Takeaways

• Understand legal requirements and HUD safety standards for manufactured home relocation
• Coordinate with utility companies to disconnect services 1-2 weeks before moving
• Choose between transport-only or full-service moves based on your needs
• Secure all belongings and loose items inside your home
• Hire professional movers experienced in manufactured home transport
  
  

Understanding Mobile Home Moving Requirements

Moving a manufactured home involves more than simple transportation. You must consider federal housing standards, wind zones, permits, distance of the move, and home park requirements at your new location.

According to the Manufactured Housing Institute, all manufactured homes must comply with HUD construction and safety standards. These standards cover roof load capacity, anchoring systems, and wind resistance—factors that directly affect how and where you can relocate your home.

Types of Mobile Home Moves: Transport-Only vs. Full-Service

Before planning your move, decide between two main service types:

Transport-Only Move:

Professional movers handle the actual transportation, but you're responsible for preparation, permits, and utility disconnections.

Full-Service Move:

Comprehensive service covering everything from utility disconnection and permit applications to setup services at your new location. Full-service moves include the disconnect of utilities and complete preparation, making them ideal for homeowners seeking a hassle-free experience.

Legal Considerations and Moving Permits

Securing proper moving permits is critical when you move your manufactured home. Required permits vary depending on:

• Where your home was built
• Your destination location
• Home park regulations
• Local zoning requirements

Understanding HUD relocation restrictions and local building standards is essential, especially regarding wind zone compatibility and anchoring system requirements.

 

"Most moving companies handle logistics—Caddy Moving moves differently by focusing on trust at the intersection of mobility and regulation, where even a minor oversight in permits or anchoring standards can turn into a five-figure liability." – Zach Richards, CEO Caddy Moving

Cost Factors for Moving a Manufactured Home

The cost to move a mobile home varies significantly based on several factors:

Primary Cost Factors:

• Size of your home (single-wide vs. double-wide)
• Distance of the move
• Terrain and route complexity
• Permit costs
• Service type (full-service vs. transport-only)
• Home construction and safety standards compliance

Expected Investment:

You can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on these variables. Get multiple quotes from reputable moving companies to understand much does it cost for your specific situation.

How to Prepare Your Mobile Home for Moving

Proper preparation ensures your manufactured home relocation proceeds safely and smoothly. Follow these essential steps to make your home move-ready.

Step 1: Conduct a Thorough Inspection

Before you move the structure, perform a comprehensive inspection of your manufactured home:

Key Areas to Inspect:

• Roof and exterior siding condition
• Foundation and chassis integrity
• Doors and windows functionality
• Electrical and plumbing systems
• HUD data plate inside your home for compliance verification

This inspection helps identify potential issues before they become costly problems during transport. Document any existing damage with photographs for insurance purposes.

Step 2: Secure All Necessary Permits

Getting the necessary permits is a key step when you plan to move your manufactured home. The type of permits you need depends on the size of your home, the distance of the move, and local laws.

Always check with your local utility companies and zoning offices to ensure compliance with home construction and safety standards and HUD regulations. To avoid last-minute issues, begin the permit process early.

This gives enough time for approval and avoids delays that could increase how much you expect to pay.

Disconnecting Utilities and External Features

Proper utility disconnection is essential for safe transport. This process requires coordination with utility companies and often professional assistance.

Step 3: Properly Disconnect All Utilities

When you're moving your manufactured home, all utilities must be safely disconnected:

Important: Never attempt to disconnect gas lines yourself. Work with a licensed professional to ensure safety and code compliance.

Step 4: Remove External Attachments

External features must be removed to prevent damage during transport:

Items to Remove:

• Skirting and decorative trim
• Porches and stairs
• Awnings and carports
• Air conditioning units (if externally mounted)
• Satellite dishes and antennas

Store these items safely or arrange for separate transport to your new location.

Interior Preparation for Safe Transport

Preparing your home's interior protects both your belongings and the structure during relocation.

Step 5: Pack and Secure Personal Belongings

Proper packing prevents damage and ensures safety during transport:

Packing Essentials:

• Use bubble wrap and foam corners for fragile items
• Secure heavy appliances and furniture to floors or walls
• Remove all loose items that could become projectiles
• Empty and secure all cabinets and drawers
  
  

Weight Considerations: Be mindful of how much weight remains in your home, as excessive weight can affect transport safety and costs.

Step 6: Protect Windows, Doors, and Interior Fixtures

Safeguard vulnerable interior elements:

Protection Methods:

• Apply protective film to windows and glass doors
• Secure all interior fixtures to prevent displacement
• Use padding on corners and vulnerable areas
• Ensure all doors and windows are properly latched

Final Pre-Move Preparations

Complete these final steps to ensure your manufactured home is transport-ready.

Step 7: Prepare the Chassis and Axles

The chassis and axles are critical for safe transport:

Preparation Tasks:

• Inspect chassis for damage or excessive wear
• Lubricate axles to prevent friction during transit
• Verify axles are properly secured to the chassis
• Check tire condition and pressure

Step 8: Weatherproof Your Mobile Home

Protect your home from elements during transport:

Weatherproofing Steps:

• Seal windows and doors with weatherstripping
• Cover vents and openings with protective covers
• Secure external fixtures that could cause damage
• Apply temporary weatherproof coverings as needed

Choosing Professional Moving Services

Selecting the right moving company is crucial for a successful manufactured home relocation.

Step 9: Hire Professional Movers

Choose a company with specific experience in manufactured home transport:

Benefits of Professional Movers:

 

Selection Criteria:

• Verify licensing and insurance
• Check references from recent manufactured home moves
• Confirm knowledge of wind zones and building standards
• Ensure compliance with Department of Housing and Urban Development requirements

Step 10: Final Walkthrough and Documentation

Document your home's condition before the move:

Documentation Process:

• Inspect interior and exterior thoroughly
• Photograph all areas, noting existing conditions
• Review documentation with your moving company
• Keep detailed records for insurance purposes

Wind Zone Compliance and Safety Standards

Understanding wind zones is crucial for manufactured home relocation. Homes built after 1976 must meet specific wind resistance standards measured in pounds per square foot.

Key Considerations:

• Verify your home's wind zone rating on the HUD data plate inside your home
• Ensure your new location accepts your home's wind zone classification
• Understand that some areas only allow manufactured homes that meet or exceed certain wind load requirements

Cost Management and Planning

Smart planning helps control your cost of moving while ensuring quality service.

Budget Planning Tips

Cost-Saving Strategies:

• Get multiple quotes from reputable moving companies
• Consider timing your move during off-peak seasons
• Handle some preparation tasks yourself (where safe to do so)
• Research manufactured home lot rental agreements at your destination

Additional Expenses to Consider:

• Set up services at your new location
• Utility connection fees
• Permit and inspection costs
• Temporary storage if needed

Conclusion

Successfully moving your manufactured home requires careful planning, proper preparation, and professional expertise. By following these 10 essential steps—from initial inspection to final documentation—you'll ensure a safe, legal, and efficient relocation process.

Remember to give yourself plenty of time for planning, secure all necessary permits, and work with experienced professionals who know how to move manufactured homes correctly and safely. Whether you choose a transport-only or full-service move, proper preparation protects your investment and ensures a smooth transition to your new location.

For the best results, partner with reputable moving companies that specialize in manufactured home relocation and understand the unique requirements of your home construction and safety standards.

FAQ

What are the types of moves for manufactured homes?

We offer two main types of moves. A transport-only move moves your home from one place to another. A full-service move includes extra services like disconnecting utilities and preparing your home for transport.

What permits are required to move a mobile home?

Permits needed to move a mobile home depend on your location and the home's size and weight. Always check with local authorities to find out what permits you need.

How do I prepare my mobile home for moving?

To get your mobile home ready for moving, start with a thorough inspection. Then, secure the necessary permits and disconnect utilities.

Remove external attachments, pack your belongings, and protect your home's interior.

How do I ensure that my mobile home is properly secured for transport?

Hire professional movers who knows how to move mobile homes. They will check the chassis, secure axles, and protect the interior.

Proper packing and equipment reduce damage during the move.

What is the cost of moving a manufactured home?

Moving costs vary based on distance, home size, and services needed. Get a quote from a professional moving company to find out the exact cost.

Do I need to disconnect utilities before moving my mobile home?

Yes. You must properly disconnect all utilities before the manufactured home movers arrive. Including water, electricity, and gas.

For safety, always work with your utility companies or hire a professional for this step. Full-service moves include the disconnect of these services.

What is the importance of hiring professional movers for my mobile home?

Professional movers are crucial for a safe and efficient move. They have the skills and tools to handle the challenges of moving a mobile home, reducing damage and injury risks.

What is a HUD-approved moving company?

A HUD-approved moving company meets HUD's safety standards for moving manufactured homes. It's important to hire one to ensure your home is moved safely and legally.

How do I protect my mobile home during transport?

Use high-quality materials to secure your belongings and protect windows, doors, and fixtures. Make sure the chassis is in good condition.

A moving crew can help weatherproof and secure the structure before transport.

What is the wind zone and how does it affect my mobile home move?

Wind zones indicate how much wind pressure your home can withstand. Before you move the structure, make sure your mobile home meets wind zone requirements for the new location to avoid damage and meet building codes.

Move Your Manufactured Home Correctly and Safely with Caddy Moving

Now that you’ve taken the steps to prepare your mobile home for relocation, it’s time to find a moving company you can trust. Caddy Moving helps homeowners handle the move from one location to another—whether you're moving across town or to a completely new place.

We specialize in moving manufactured homes and can connect you with reputable moving companies that understand the unique needs of manufactured home construction and safety.

Give yourself plenty of time—contact Caddy Moving today to start your mobile home relocation the right way. Let us help you make the home move easy, correct, and safe from start to finish.