Moving A Double-Wide Manufactured Home: A Complete Guide

Oct 29, 2025 by SLV Team 57 views

Moving a Double-Wide Manufactured Home: A Comprehensive Guide

Hey there, future homeowners and adventurous souls! Ever dreamt of picking up your double-wide manufactured home and moving it to a new location? Sounds like a huge task, right? Well, it can be, but don't sweat it! This guide is designed to walk you through how to move a double wide manufactured home step-by-step, making the process a whole lot less daunting. We’ll cover everything from planning and permits to the actual move itself, and even some post-move setup. So, grab a coffee, and let's dive into the world of manufactured home relocation!

Planning and Preparation: The Foundation of a Successful Move

Alright, guys, before you even think about disconnecting those utilities, there's a ton of planning to do. This stage is super important because it sets the stage for a smooth, stress-free move. Let's break down the key areas you need to focus on:

Assessing Your Home and Location

First things first: is your home actually movable? Sounds silly, but you need to check the structural integrity of your manufactured home. Get a professional inspection to identify any potential issues like rot, damage, or weak points. If there are significant problems, it might be more cost-effective to repair them before the move, or in some cases, the home might not be suitable for relocation. Also, think about the age of your home; older homes may not meet current safety standards in new locations.

Next up, the destination. Where are you moving to? You need to assess the new location for accessibility. Is there a clear path for the transport trucks? Are there low-hanging power lines, narrow roads, or tight turns that could pose a problem? Measure the width and height of your double-wide carefully to ensure it will fit through any potential obstacles. It's a good idea to scout the route beforehand. Drive it, walk it, whatever it takes to get a clear picture of what's ahead. Remember, moving a double-wide manufactured home is a big operation; you can't be too prepared!

Permits and Regulations: The Paperwork Parade

Okay, now for the less exciting but super necessary part: permits. You'll need permits from both the origin and destination locations. These permits ensure that your move complies with local regulations regarding transportation, safety, and construction. Contact your local city or county planning department to find out what permits you need. This might include:

Transportation Permits: These authorize the movement of an oversized load on public roads.
Building Permits: You'll need these for setting up the home at the new location, including foundation work, utility hookups, and any necessary repairs.
Escort Vehicle Requirements: Depending on the size of your home and the route, you might be required to have escort vehicles with flashing lights to guide the transport trucks.

The permit process can take time, so start this early! Gather all the necessary documentation, including your home's specifications, insurance information, and a detailed moving plan. And, of course, be prepared to pay some fees. Always follow the regulations carefully to avoid fines and delays.

Choosing a Moving Company: The Right Team Makes All the Difference

This is a big decision, folks. Unless you're a seasoned pro with heavy machinery and a fleet of trucks, you're going to need a moving company specializing in moving a double-wide manufactured home. Look for companies with experience in this specific area; moving a manufactured home is very different from moving household furniture!

Get Multiple Quotes: Don't settle for the first company you find. Get quotes from several different companies. Compare their prices, services, and reputation.
Check References and Reviews: Ask for references from past clients and read online reviews. This will give you insights into the company's reliability and quality of work. Look for companies that are licensed and insured.
Verify Insurance: Make sure the moving company has adequate insurance to cover any potential damage to your home during the move. Confirm the coverage details in writing.
Detailed Contract: Get everything in writing. The contract should clearly outline the scope of the work, the timeline, the costs, and the responsibilities of both parties. Pay close attention to what is and isn't included in the quote.

Choosing the right moving company can make or break your entire relocation experience, so do your homework!

Preparing Your Home for the Move: Safety First!

Okay, you've done your planning, got your permits, and hired a moving company. Now it's time to get your home ready for the big adventure. This stage involves a lot of hands-on work, so let's get down to it:

Disconnecting Utilities: Safety is Key

Gas: Hire a qualified technician to disconnect the gas lines. They'll ensure everything is properly sealed and safe for transport.
Electricity: You'll need a licensed electrician to disconnect the electrical connections. Make sure to shut off the power at the breaker box before they start work.
Water and Sewer: These lines also need to be disconnected by qualified professionals. They'll drain the water lines to prevent leaks during the move.

Always prioritize safety. Never attempt to disconnect utilities yourself unless you are qualified and know what you are doing. Improper handling of utilities can be extremely dangerous.

Interior Preparations: Protecting Your Belongings

Before the movers arrive, you'll need to prepare the interior of your home. This means securing or removing anything that could shift or break during the move. Here's a checklist:

Secure Cabinets and Drawers: Use tape or straps to keep cabinets and drawers closed. Empty any fragile items and pack them separately.
Remove or Secure Appliances: Disconnect and secure any large appliances, such as refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers. Consider removing light fixtures and ceiling fans to prevent damage.
Protect Furniture: Wrap furniture in protective blankets or bubble wrap to prevent scratches and dents. Remove any loose items, such as pictures or mirrors, and pack them carefully.
Empty Water Tanks: Drain your water heater and any other water tanks to reduce weight and prevent leaks.

Taking these steps will help protect your belongings and minimize the risk of damage during the move. Remember, moving a double-wide manufactured home is a bumpy ride!

Exterior Preparations: Preparing for the Journey

Outside, you'll need to do some prep work to protect the exterior of your home:

Remove or Secure Attachments: Detach any attached structures, such as decks, porches, or awnings. These may need to be transported separately. If you can't remove them, make sure they are well-secured.
Secure the Roof: Inspect the roof for any loose shingles or other issues. Make sure the roof is in good condition to withstand the rigors of transport.
Seal Windows and Doors: Check that all windows and doors are securely closed and sealed. Consider using tape to secure them further.
Protect the Undercarriage: If the undercarriage of your home is exposed, consider adding extra protection to prevent damage during transport.
Your moving company should assist with many of these exterior preparations, but it's always good to be proactive.

The Big Move: Transporting Your Home

Alright, it's go-time! The moving company arrives with their specialized equipment, and the real adventure begins. Here's what to expect during the actual move:

Separating the Home: Making it Mobile

First, your double-wide will need to be separated into two halves for transport. This involves:

Disconnecting the Sections: The moving company will disconnect the two halves of your home, usually along the center seam.
Raising the Home: The home will be lifted off its foundation using hydraulic jacks or other lifting equipment.
Preparing the Undercarriage: The movers will inspect and reinforce the undercarriage, which is crucial for supporting the home during transport. They will also attach axles and wheels to make it mobile.
This process requires specialized equipment and expertise, so leave it to the professionals.

Transporting the Home: Hitting the Road

Now, the two halves of your home are ready to hit the road! Here’s what happens during transport:

Loading the Home: Each section is carefully loaded onto specialized trailers designed for transporting manufactured homes.
Securing the Load: The movers will secure the home to the trailers using straps, chains, and other securing devices.
The Journey: The transport trucks will navigate the planned route, with escort vehicles (if required) guiding them and ensuring safety.
Dealing with Obstacles: Be prepared for potential delays. The movers may need to deal with obstacles such as low-hanging power lines or narrow roads.
Communication with the moving company is key during this phase. Stay in contact and be available to answer any questions or address any concerns.

Reassembling the Home: Putting it Back Together

Once at the new location, the two halves of your home will be reassembled:

Positioning the Home: The trailers will maneuver the sections of your home onto the new foundation.
Connecting the Sections: The moving crew will carefully align and connect the two halves of the home, ensuring they are properly sealed and secured.
Securing the Home: The home will be anchored to the foundation, following local building codes and regulations.
This step is critical for ensuring the structural integrity of your home at the new location.

Setting Up Your Home at the New Location: The Final Touches

After the moving a double-wide manufactured home process is complete, you're almost there! Here's what you need to do to complete the setup:

Connecting Utilities: Getting Back to Normal

Hire Qualified Professionals: Just as with the disconnection, hire licensed professionals to reconnect your utilities.
Inspect Connections: Make sure all utility connections are properly made and that there are no leaks or electrical hazards.
Testing Utilities: Once the utilities are connected, test everything to ensure it's working properly. This includes checking your water pressure, electrical outlets, and gas appliances.
Following Codes: Make sure all utility connections meet local building codes and regulations.

Interior and Exterior Finishing: Making it Home

Interior Repairs and Cleaning: Once the home is in place, inspect the interior for any damage that may have occurred during the move. Make any necessary repairs, such as patching holes or repairing cracks. Clean the interior thoroughly.
Exterior Finishing: Address any exterior finishing work, such as landscaping, adding a deck or porch, or painting. Your goal is to make the home look as good as new at its new location.
Customization: Now's the time to personalize your home and make it your own! Decorate, arrange furniture, and create a space that reflects your style and personality.

Final Inspections and Sign-Off: Checking All the Boxes

Final Inspections: Schedule final inspections with local building officials to ensure that all work meets code requirements. This is a crucial step for receiving your certificate of occupancy.
Address Any Issues: If any issues are identified during the inspections, address them promptly to avoid delays.
Certificate of Occupancy: Once everything is up to code, you'll receive a certificate of occupancy, which is your official permission to live in your new home. Congratulations, you did it!

Cost Considerations and Timeframes: Planning Your Budget and Schedule

Moving a double-wide manufactured home involves significant costs. Here are some key factors to consider:

Factors Affecting Costs: What Impacts the Price?

Distance: The distance you move your home is a major factor. The further you move, the higher the transportation costs will be.
Size and Weight: The size and weight of your home impact the type of equipment needed and the overall cost.
Accessibility: Difficult access to the origin and destination locations can increase costs.
Permits and Fees: Permit fees and other regulatory costs can vary depending on the location.
Moving Company Fees: The moving company's fees will be a significant cost. Get multiple quotes and compare prices.
Preparation and Setup: Costs for preparing your home for the move, disconnecting/reconnecting utilities, and any necessary repairs or setup work will add to the overall expense.
Contingency Fund: Always build a contingency fund into your budget to cover unexpected costs.

Timeframe: How Long Does It Take?

The timeframe for moving a double-wide manufactured home can vary. Here's a general timeline:

Planning and Permits: This phase can take several weeks or even months, depending on your location and the complexity of the permits.
Preparation: Preparing your home for the move can take several days or weeks, depending on the amount of work required.
Transportation: The actual transport time depends on the distance, but can take anywhere from a day to several weeks.
Setup: Setting up your home at the new location can take several days or weeks, depending on the complexity of the setup and the availability of contractors.
Flexibility: Be prepared for potential delays and have a flexible schedule.

Common Challenges and How to Avoid Them

Moving a manufactured home can present certain challenges. Let's look at some common pitfalls and how to navigate them:

Unexpected Obstacles: Be Prepared for Anything

Route Issues: Road closures, low-hanging power lines, or unexpected obstacles can cause delays. Always have backup routes planned and be flexible.
Weather: Severe weather can halt transportation. Be prepared for potential delays and reschedule if necessary.
Permit Issues: Permit delays can hold up the move. Start the permit process early and stay in close communication with the permitting authorities.
Foundation Problems: Issues with the foundation at the new location can lead to delays. Inspect the foundation before the move, and make any necessary repairs.
Staying calm and adaptable is key when facing unexpected challenges.

Safety Precautions: Prioritizing Safety First

Professional Assistance: Always hire qualified professionals for utility disconnections, reconnections, and any electrical work.
Follow Safety Regulations: Adhere to all safety regulations during the entire moving process, from disconnecting utilities to the final setup. Safety is the priority.
Supervision: Always supervise the move and make sure all work is done safely and correctly.
Insurance Coverage: Ensure the moving company has adequate insurance to cover any potential damage or accidents.
Prioritize safety at every stage of the move.

Conclusion: Your New Adventure Awaits!

Alright, folks, that wraps up our comprehensive guide on moving a double-wide manufactured home. We've covered the key steps, from initial planning to final setup. Remember, it’s a complex process, so careful planning and the right professional help are essential for a successful relocation.

Moving a manufactured home can be a rewarding experience. It gives you the chance to relocate to a new location, change your lifestyle, and bring your home with you. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking your time to plan carefully, you'll be well on your way to a smooth and successful move. Good luck with your move, and enjoy your new home! If you need any more advice, don’t hesitate to ask!