Mobile homes have been a blessing for many people. To eliminate confusion, it’s important to make the distinction between mobile homes, which is what they were called before 1976, and manufactured homes as the new name that was later established. In 1976, the government moved into the picture and introduced laws that regulated and significantly improved the standards that had to be met for these types of homes. In short, we’re speaking of two different kinds of homes and for the purposes of this article, the focus will be on mobile homes only and how much does it cost to move a mobile home.
One advantage of mobile homes is since they’re not built on permanent foundations, a person can change their entire surroundings or neighborhood by moving their home to a new location. However, many mobile homes lack the sturdier construction, durability and safety standards that were mandated by the government and therefore raises the question of whether or not it’s worth it to make the move. There are also explicit protocols and guidelines involving these relocations.
Price Estimates for Moving a Mobile Home
So how much does it cost to move a mobile home? Specific costs can only be calculated by the logistics involved with each move. To present a particular scenario to give a general idea of the costs involved depends on:
- whether the home is a single-, double- or triple-wide home;
- whether it’s a transport-only or full-service move. CostHelper imparts the following information:
Transport Only
Mobile homes can be attached for pickup and detached upon arrival to new locations up to 60 miles away. Transport-only moves ends with customers taking on the responsibility of completing the job. DIY jobs will require certain tools like hammers, measuring tape, snap-lock punch tool, plumb bob and tin snips, plus plumbing skills to get the job done. Also, skirting installation materials used for insulation will be needed. The cost of tools will range from $50 – $150 and skirting materials could cost several thousand dollars depending on the size of the home and what is purchased.
- $700 – $1,000 for single-wide;
- $2,000 – $2,500 for double-wide
- $2,600 – $3,500 for triple-wide
Full-Service Move
How much does it cost to move a mobile home using the full-service move? This move includes complete services like obtaining the required permits for reconnection purposes, reconnecting of utilities, porches and any other attachments and the price range is as follows:
- Single-wide = $3,000 – $5,000
- double-wide = $4,000 – $10,000
- triple-wide = $10,000 – $14,000
Things that Influence the Price
Movers.com supplies additional comprehensive information on how much does it cost to move a mobile home, covering everything from before and after the move. There are certain preparations that must be done before the move such as:
- Securing and covering doors and windows so they’re protected during the move
- Utility and power lines may be connected to the home so the owners may have to pay the utility companies to have these lines disconnected
- The site where the mobile home will reside has to be prepared. This may include cutting down trees, leveling the ground, supplying the necessary blocking underneath the home and attaching this foundation to the ground
All of these provisions will influence the price of moving a mobile home.
Additional Costs
When doing any kind of move, the mover should always be prepared to handle additional expenses that may be incurred. Below are some of these additional costs:
- Must lease the space the home will reside on
- A moving permit is required that will allow the home to be transported to another location
- If doing a transport-only move, movers may also require the additional services of a handy man to help with the installations and connections; this cost could range from $30 – $60/hour
How to Choose a Mobile Home Moving Company
When it comes to relocating a mobile home, the foremost advice given is find a company that deals regularly, or even exclusively, with mobile home moves who are proficient with the rules and regulations involved. Using a company that is knowledgeable in this area can eliminate half of the concerns customers may have.
Besides this, there are the general protocols that should be followed for any type of move, such as:
- Have a face-to-face meeting with the company so that all details about the move can be fully discussed and agreed upon.
- Look for a company that presents all necessary information upfront, both in meetings and on their websites.
- The moving company should be cordial, willing and able to answer any and all questions that are presented to them. All names and contact information should be given immediately. When contacted, the movers should be available if not immediately, then at least by call back within a reasonable time to customers.
- All final itemizations and facts should be put into writing including a confirmed moving date and time.
- Customers should be given receipts for any monies paid to the movers and they shouldn’t have to ask for it.
Conclusion
In summary, how much does it cost to move a mobile home? Movers should bear in mind that once all the necessities and provisions are included and calculated, the actual move could cost as little as $5,000 to as much as $20,000. Everything depends on the size of the home, mileage involved with the move, and the services and materials obtained.
Keeping in mind the possible finances and many details involved, people will have to consider whether it’s worth it to make such a move. The bottom line is when considering how much does it cost to move a mobile home, potential customers must tally up the costs while considering all of the advantages and possible disadvantages of moving a mobile home.
Image: depositphotos.com.
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