Moving a double wide trailer involves far more than simply hitching it up and driving away. It requires meticulous planning, permits, professional expertise, and a thorough understanding of local regulations to ensure a safe and legal relocation.
Understanding the Double Wide Moving Process
The relocation of a double wide trailer is a complex process demanding careful consideration of several critical factors. It is not a DIY project for the inexperienced. Engaging qualified professionals specializing in mobile home moving is strongly recommended. These professionals possess the necessary expertise, equipment, and understanding of local regulations to navigate the complexities and ensure a smooth and safe relocation.
Pre-Move Preparations: The Foundation of Success
Before the physical move can even begin, several essential steps must be taken. These preparations are crucial for minimizing risks and ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.
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Secure Necessary Permits: This is arguably the most critical step. Permits vary by state and locality, and typically cover transportation routes, size restrictions, and insurance requirements. Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Department of Transportation (DOT) to determine the specific permits required for your move. Failure to obtain the correct permits can result in hefty fines and delays.
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Disconnect Utilities: Before detaching the trailer from its foundation, all utilities, including electricity, water, gas, and sewage, must be safely disconnected. Contact your utility providers to schedule disconnection services and ensure all lines are properly capped or sealed.
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Prepare the Trailer for Transport: This involves securing all loose items inside the trailer to prevent damage during transit. Remove any external attachments, such as awnings, skirting, or decks. Reinforce windows and doors with plywood or strapping to prevent breakage.
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Choose a Reputable Moving Company: Research and select a licensed and insured mobile home moving company with extensive experience in relocating double wide trailers. Check their references, review their insurance coverage, and obtain multiple quotes to ensure you are getting a fair price.
The Physical Move: Expertise in Action
The actual moving process requires specialized equipment and expertise. The moving company will typically:
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Detach the Trailer from its Foundation: This involves disconnecting the trailer from its anchoring system, removing any tie-downs, and lifting the trailer slightly to prepare for placement onto transport axles.
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Install Transport Axles and Tires: Heavy-duty axles and tires specifically designed for transporting mobile homes are installed under the trailer. These axles are equipped with brakes and lights to ensure safe operation on public roads.
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Load the Trailer onto the Towing Vehicle: A specialized towing vehicle, typically a semi-truck or heavy-duty pickup truck, is used to pull the trailer. The trailer is carefully positioned and secured to the towing vehicle using appropriate hitches and safety chains.
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Transport the Trailer to its New Location: The moving company will carefully transport the trailer along the pre-approved route, adhering to all traffic laws and speed limits. They will coordinate with escorts if necessary to ensure safe passage through narrow roads or congested areas.
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Set Up the Trailer at its New Location: Once the trailer arrives at its destination, the moving company will position it on the prepared foundation, level it, and connect it to utilities. They will also reinstall any skirting or other external attachments that were removed prior to the move.
Post-Move Inspections: Ensuring Stability and Safety
After the trailer is set up at its new location, it is crucial to conduct thorough inspections to ensure its stability and safety.
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Foundation Inspection: Verify that the foundation is level and properly supporting the trailer. Check for any signs of damage or instability.
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Utility Connection Inspection: Ensure that all utility connections are properly installed and functioning correctly. Check for leaks or other potential hazards.
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Overall Safety Inspection: Inspect the trailer for any damage that may have occurred during the move. Check windows, doors, and other structural components to ensure they are in good working order.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some commonly asked questions about moving a double wide trailer, providing further insight into the process.
1. How much does it cost to move a double wide trailer?
The cost to move a double wide trailer varies significantly based on factors like distance, size, complexity of the move, required permits, and the moving company you choose. Expect a range from $8,000 to $20,000 or more. Obtain multiple quotes from reputable companies for an accurate estimate.
2. What permits are required to move a double wide trailer?
Permits are essential and vary by state and locality. They typically cover transportation routes, size restrictions, insurance requirements, and sometimes, even inspections. Contact your local DMV or DOT for specific requirements. Do not attempt to move a trailer without the necessary permits.
3. Can I move a double wide trailer myself?
While technically possible, moving a double wide trailer yourself is highly discouraged. It requires specialized equipment, expertise, and a thorough understanding of local regulations. Engaging a professional moving company is strongly recommended to ensure a safe and legal move. The risks associated with a DIY move far outweigh any potential cost savings.
4. How long does it take to move a double wide trailer?
The duration depends on the distance, complexity of the move, and permit processing times. A local move might take a few days, while a longer distance move could take several weeks. Factor in time for pre-move preparations and post-move setup. Permit acquisition often contributes significantly to the overall timeframe.
5. What are the weight and size restrictions for moving a double wide trailer?
Weight and size restrictions vary by state and locality. Typically, there are limits on the width, height, and length of the trailer. Overweight or oversized loads may require special permits and escorts. Exceeding these restrictions can result in fines and delays.
6. Do I need insurance to move a double wide trailer?
Yes, insurance is essential. Your moving company should have comprehensive liability insurance covering any damage that may occur during the move. You may also want to consider additional insurance to protect your trailer against damage during transit. Verify your moving company’s insurance coverage before hiring them.
7. How do I prepare my double wide trailer for transport?
Secure all loose items inside the trailer, remove external attachments like awnings and skirting, reinforce windows and doors, and disconnect all utilities. Thorough preparation minimizes the risk of damage during transit.
8. What happens if my double wide trailer is damaged during the move?
If your trailer is damaged during the move, document the damage with photos and videos. File a claim with the moving company’s insurance provider. It’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your insurance coverage and the claims process. A comprehensive insurance policy is vital for protecting your investment.
9. Can I move my double wide trailer across state lines?
Yes, you can move your double wide trailer across state lines, but it requires careful planning and coordination. You will need to obtain permits from each state you will be traveling through and ensure compliance with all applicable regulations. Interstate moves are more complex and require even greater expertise.
10. How do I find a reputable mobile home moving company?
Research online, check reviews, ask for referrals from friends or family, and verify their licensing and insurance. Obtain multiple quotes and compare services and pricing. Due diligence is crucial when selecting a mobile home moving company.
11. What is the difference between a “wide load” and an “oversized load”?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, a “wide load” typically refers to loads exceeding standard width restrictions, while an “oversized load” encompasses any load exceeding standard dimensions (width, height, or length). Both require special permits and may require escorts.
12. Can I live in my double wide trailer while it’s being moved?
No, it is absolutely prohibited to live in your double wide trailer while it’s being moved. It’s extremely dangerous and illegal. Everyone must vacate the trailer before the move begins.