Moving a mobile home is no small task. Whether you’re relocating your home to a new park, private land, or out of state, the process requires planning, permits, and the right professionals.
This guide covers everything you need to know to move your mobile or manufactured home safely and legally—including a breakdown of rules by state.
At Mobile Home Strategies, we specialize in helping mobile homeowners navigate the complex process of moving their homes safely, legally, and affordably.
Table of Contents
- Can You Move a Mobile Home?
- Common Reasons People Move Mobile Homes
- How Much Does It Cost to Move a Mobile Home?
- Additional Costs When Moving Your Mobile Home
- What’s Included in a Mobile Home Move?
- How to Hire a Licensed Mobile Home Mover
- Permits, Zoning, and Legal Requirements
- State-by-State Moving Rules and Restrictions
- Mobile Home Transportation Laws by Region
- Can You Move a Mobile Home Yourself?
- Should You Move or Sell Your Mobile Home?
- How to Prepare Your Mobile Home for a Move
- How Long Does It Take to Move a Mobile Home?
- Common Mobile Home Moving Mistakes to Avoid
- How We Help With Mobile Home Moving
- Need Help Deciding?
- Get Help From Our Network of Mobile Home Buyers
- Contact us today for a free consultation and cash offer!
- Frequently Asked Questions About Mobile Home Moving (FAQs)
Can You Move a Mobile Home?
Yes, mobile homes are designed to be moved—but that doesn’t mean it’s as simple as hooking it up to a truck and hitting the road. Moving a mobile home requires specialized equipment, experienced professionals, and the proper permits. Whether you own a single-wide, double-wide, or park model, moving your mobile home is possible with the right team.
Not all mobile or manufactured homes are eligible for transport. Movers and state laws typically consider:
- The age of the home – Many states restrict moves for homes built before June 15, 1976 (pre-HUD). However, it may still be possible to move an older home with some upgrades.
- The size of the home – Oversized homes may require special escorts and routes.
- The home’s condition – The home’s frame, roof, and axles must be structurally sound and pass safety inspections.
- Zoning and permitting rules – You’ll need proper permits for both removal and setup. Some communities don’t allow older homes or mobile homes at all.
- Wind zone compliance: In hurricane-prone states like Florida, homes must meet wind zone ratings.
Single-wide homes are cheaper and easier to move. Double-wides must be split for transport, increasing time and cost.
Common Reasons People Move Mobile Homes
- You found a better lot or community
- You’re selling your home and need it transported
- You inherited a mobile home on rented land
- You’re relocating for a job or lifestyle change
- You’re downsizing or upsizing within the same park
How Much Does It Cost to Move a Mobile Home?
The cost to move a mobile home depends on several factors:
- Size and weight of the mobile home (single-wide vs. double-wide)
- Distance of the move (local vs. long-distance)
- Permits and inspections required by state and local governments
- Set-up costs, including leveling, skirting, and utility hook-ups
- Disassembly and preparation, like removing decks, porches, or awnings
Costs depend on the distance, size, permits, and setup needs. Here’s a rough breakdown:
| Type | Local Move (under 100 miles) | Long-Distance Move (100+ miles) |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Wide | $4,000 – $8,000 | $8,000 – $13,000+ |
| Double-Wide | $7,000 – $12,000 | $13,000 – $20,000+ |
| Triple-Wide | $10,000 – $20,000+ | $18,000 – $30,000+ |
Additional Costs When Moving Your Mobile Home
- Permits and inspections
- Skirting and porch removal and reinstall
- Blocking, leveling, and anchoring
- Utility disconnection/reconnection
- New foundation (if required)
- Escort vehicles (for oversized loads)
- Insurance coverage
Some states (like California and Florida) also require engineers or inspectors to verify the home’s condition before a move.
It’s important to work with a licensed and insured mobile home mover who can provide a transparent quote based on your specific situation.
What’s Included in a Mobile Home Move?
Professional mobile home movers typically provide:
- Permits for transportation and setup
- Disassembly of porches, skirting, and utilities
- Transportation using specialized trailers
- Escort vehicles if required by law
- Reassembly and setup at the new location
- Blocking, leveling, and tie-downs
Optional Add-Ons:
- Foundation construction
- Reinstalling porches and skirting
- Utility hookups (electric, water, septic)
Note: Not all movers handle site prep, utility hookup, or foundation work. Be sure to clarify what’s included in your contract.
How to Hire a Licensed Mobile Home Mover
When choosing a mover:
- Verify licensing with your state’s Department of Transportation or Manufactured Housing Division
- Ask for insurance details (cargo, general liability, worker’s compensation, etc.)
- Check for reviews, BBB ratings, or referrals
- Get quotes in writing…(ALWAYS)
- Make sure the mover is experienced
- Ask about hidden fees (fuel, escorts, permits)
- Well-reviewed or referred by local mobile home parks
Hiring a licensed and experienced mover ensures the safety and legality of your move. Always check references and ask if they’ve handled homes like yours. Unlicensed movers often cut corners on permits and safety.
Permits, Zoning, and Legal Requirements
Every state and municipality has rules regarding mobile home moving. Most require:
- Moving permits
- Title and ownership verification
- Compliance with zoning and age restrictions
- Road safety and transportation guidelines
Some parks or towns restrict the age of mobile homes that can be moved in. If your home is older (often pre-1976), it may not qualify under HUD guidelines without significant upgrades.
We recommend contacting your destination park or municipality early to confirm their requirements—and we can help guide you through the process.
State-by-State Moving Rules and Restrictions
Each state has its own regulations. Here are a few examples:
- Texas: Requires installers licensed through the TDHCA for setup. Pre-HUD (pre-1976) homes must pass inspection.
- Florida: Requires wind zone compliance, special tie-downs, and setup by a licensed installer. Moving permits issued by the DMV.
- New York: Must use certified movers. Local ordinances often apply.
- California: Mobile homes must have HUD data plate and be inspected prior to setup.
- North Carolina: Must use licensed movers. DOT transportation permit required from the Division of Motor Vehicles along with local setup approval.
- Arizona: Moving permits required. Double-wides must be split for transport.
Each state has its own:
- Wind zone classifications
- Age limits on homes
- Site preparation rules
- Licensing requirements
To see your state’s rules, check with your local Manufactured Housing Agency or building department.
Mobile Home Transportation Laws by Region
- Northeast: Strict on snow routes, historic zoning, and winter transport limits.
- Southeast: Wind zone compliance and anchoring are key (FL, LA, MS).
- Midwest: Frost lines impact foundation and tie-down requirements.
- West: Wildfire zones and seismic rules may affect approval.
- Southwest: Long distances and high heat require special logistics.
Can You Move a Mobile Home Yourself?
In almost all cases, no. Moving a mobile home yourself is not legal or practical. States require licensed movers due to safety and liability concerns. Attempting a DIY move without permits, escorts, or proper equipment can lead to fines, denied permits, or even damage to the home.
Always hire a licensed mover with experience transporting manufactured homes.
Almost every state requires professional movers with:
- Commercial-grade equipment
- Bonding and insurance
- Route permits and escorts
- Registration with DOT or HUD
DIY moving without the proper licenses and permits is illegal and can damage your home or result in huge fines.
Should You Move or Sell Your Mobile Home?
In some cases, moving a mobile home might not make financial sense. If the home is older, needs repairs, or if the cost to move exceeds the home’s value, it may be better to sell your mobile home as-is and start fresh in a new location.
Here’s when selling might be a better option:
- The home is more than 30 years old and needs repairs.
- Moving costs exceed the home’s market value.
- The destination park has age or aesthetic restrictions.
- The home won’t pass safety inspections in the new state.
At Mobile Home Strategies, we buy mobile homes in any condition—on rented land, in parks, or on private lots—and we can help you determine whether it’s smarter to move or sell.
Mobile Home Cash Offer
We buy mobile homes in ANY condition, situation, and price range. Start below by giving us a bit of information about your manufactured home or call (617) 615-6490.
How to Prepare Your Mobile Home for a Move
Your mover will do the heavy lifting, but you can take these steps ahead of time:
- Remove skirting, steps, decks, sheds, or exterior additions
- Pack and secure loose items inside (windows, cabinet doors)
- Disconnect utilities (water, gas, sewer, power)
- Obtain paperwork: title, permit applications, park approvals
- Double check title and ownership documents
- Inspect the roof, tires, and undercarriage (your mover will verify condition)
Your mover will need to verify the axles, tires, and frame.
How Long Does It Take to Move a Mobile Home?
- Permit & inspection wait time: 3–14 days
- Move and transport day: 1–2 days
- Setup and reassembly: 3–7 days
- Utility hookup & final inspection: 2–5 days
Altogether, expect a typical mobile home move to take 1–3 weeks depending on complexity.
Common Mobile Home Moving Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to check if your home is HUD-compliant or structurally sound
- Not pulling the proper permits (transport AND setup)
- Hiring an unlicensed or uninsured mover
- Underestimating the total cost of transport and setup
- Forgetting to check park rules at the new location
- Not confirming that the new site is zoned for manufactured housing
- Forgetting to disconnect utilities
- Assuming parks will accept older homes
- Ignoring zoning or HUD restrictions
How We Help With Mobile Home Moving
We work with experienced, licensed mobile home transport specialists who can help you:
- Disassemble and prep your home for moving
- Obtain all required permits
- Safely transport your mobile home to its new location
- Set up your home, including leveling, skirting, and hookups
- Navigate local regulations and park requirements
Whether you’re moving across town or across the state, we can help make the process stress-free.
Need Help Deciding?
If you’re not sure whether to move or sell your mobile home, we can help you weigh the pros and cons based on your unique situation. We’ve helped homeowners in all kinds of situations—relocating, upgrading, downsizing, or just trying to get a fresh start.
Get Help From Our Network of Mobile Home Buyers
If you’re considering moving a mobile or manufactured home but aren’t sure it’s worth the cost, we can help. At Mobile Home Strategies, we:
- Buy mobile homes in any condition
- Work with licensed movers nationwide
- Help you sell your home in place if moving isn’t an option
We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners relocate, sell, or trade their mobile homes quickly and without stress. Whether you want to move across town or across the country, we can help you explore your options.
Contact us today for a free consultation and cash offer!
Get A Free Consultation
Contact us today for a no-obligation conversation. We’ll review your situation and connect you with the resources or cash offer you need to move forward.
📞 Call us at (617) 615-6490 or fill out the form to get started!
Frequently Asked Questions About Mobile Home Moving (FAQs)
Q Can I move a mobile home built before 1976?
A Great question. Not in most states unless it has been upgraded to meet HUD standards.
Q Do I need new permits at the destination site?
A Yes. Transport and setup permits are both required.
Q Can I move my home to a new park?
A Check with the new park first. Some have age, size, or cosmetic restrictions.
Q Do I need a new foundation?
A Often yes—especially if required by local code or if moving from pier-and-beam to concrete.
Q Can I move a mobile home in winter?
A It’s possible, but weather and frost lines may delay permitting or setup.