Moving a trailer house, also known as a manufactured home, requires meticulous planning, adherence to legal regulations, and often, the expertise of professional movers. It’s a complex process involving permits, transportation, and ensuring the structural integrity of the home throughout the journey.
Understanding the Scope of a Trailer House Move
Moving a trailer house is not as simple as hooking it up and driving off. It’s a logistical undertaking with significant legal and practical implications. The difficulty stems from the size and construction of these homes. While designed for transport, they are still large, often exceeding the standard dimensions for road travel, necessitating wide-load permits and specialized equipment. Furthermore, the structural integrity of the home must be preserved during the move to avoid costly damage.
This article will guide you through the essential steps and considerations for successfully moving a trailer house, providing the information you need to decide whether to attempt the move yourself or hire professional movers.
Essential Steps for a Successful Trailer House Move
The process of moving a trailer house can be broken down into several key stages: preparation, permitting, transportation, and setup. Each stage requires careful attention to detail to ensure a smooth and successful move.
Pre-Move Preparation
This initial phase is crucial for identifying potential challenges and ensuring a successful outcome.
- Inspection: Conduct a thorough inspection of your trailer house. Document any existing damage (photos and written descriptions) to avoid disputes later. Check the tires, axles, and frame for any signs of wear and tear.
- Clearance: Ensure a clear path for the move. This includes trimming trees, removing fences, and identifying any overhead obstructions like power lines.
- Disconnect Utilities: Disconnect all utilities (water, gas, electricity, and sewer) well in advance of the move. Contact the utility companies to schedule disconnections and avoid potential hazards.
- Secure Loose Items: Remove or securely fasten all loose items inside the home, including furniture, appliances, and personal belongings. Anything that could shift during transit must be properly secured to prevent damage. Consider moving belongings separately in a moving truck.
Obtaining Necessary Permits
Moving a trailer house almost always requires permits from local, state, and sometimes even federal authorities.
- Research Regulations: Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and relevant state agencies to determine the specific permitting requirements in your area. These regulations can vary significantly depending on the route, size of the home, and time of year.
- Application Process: Be prepared to provide detailed information about your trailer house, including its dimensions, weight, and intended route. The application process can take several weeks, so it’s essential to start early.
- Escort Requirements: Depending on the size of your trailer house and the route you’ll be taking, you may be required to hire escort vehicles. These vehicles help to ensure the safety of the move and alert other drivers to the presence of a wide load.
Transportation Logistics
The actual transportation of the trailer house is perhaps the most complex and critical stage.
- Professional Movers: Consider hiring professional movers specializing in transporting manufactured homes. They have the experience, equipment, and insurance to handle the move safely and efficiently.
- Equipment Requirements: Moving a trailer house requires specialized equipment, including a heavy-duty truck, axles, and potentially a crane for loading and unloading.
- Route Planning: Plan the route carefully, considering factors like road width, bridge clearances, and traffic congestion. Avoid narrow roads, low bridges, and areas with heavy traffic.
- Insurance: Ensure you have adequate insurance coverage for the move. This should cover any potential damage to the trailer house or other property during transit.
Setting Up at the New Location
Once the trailer house arrives at its new location, it needs to be properly set up.
- Foundation Preparation: Prepare the foundation according to local building codes. This may involve leveling the ground, installing a concrete pad, or setting up piers.
- Utility Connections: Reconnect all utilities, ensuring that they are properly installed and comply with local regulations. Have a qualified professional inspect the connections to ensure safety.
- Leveling and Stabilization: Level the trailer house and stabilize it using jacks and shims. This is crucial for preventing settling and ensuring the structural integrity of the home.
- Inspection and Repairs: Conduct a final inspection of the trailer house and make any necessary repairs. This may include patching holes, repairing damaged siding, or fixing leaky pipes.
Hiring Professional Movers vs. DIY
Deciding whether to hire professional movers or attempt a DIY move is a critical decision.
The Case for Professional Movers
- Expertise and Experience: Professional movers have the expertise and experience to handle all aspects of the move, from permitting to transportation and setup.
- Specialized Equipment: They have the specialized equipment required to move a trailer house safely and efficiently.
- Insurance Coverage: Professional movers carry insurance to cover any potential damage to the trailer house or other property during the move.
- Reduced Stress and Risk: Hiring professionals can significantly reduce the stress and risk associated with moving a trailer house.
The Case for DIY
- Cost Savings: Moving a trailer house yourself can potentially save money on labor costs.
- Control Over the Process: You have complete control over every aspect of the move.
Factors to Consider
- Your Experience: Do you have experience moving large objects or operating heavy machinery?
- Your Time Commitment: Are you willing to dedicate the significant amount of time required to plan and execute the move?
- Your Risk Tolerance: Are you comfortable with the potential risks associated with moving a trailer house yourself?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you further navigate the complexities of moving a trailer house:
FAQ 1: How much does it cost to move a trailer house?
The cost can vary widely, typically ranging from $3,000 to $15,000 or more. Factors influencing the price include the distance of the move, the size and weight of the trailer house, permitting fees, and the cost of professional movers. Longer distances and larger homes naturally incur higher expenses.
FAQ 2: What permits are required to move a trailer house?
Permit requirements vary by state and locality. Typically, you’ll need transport permits from the DMV and potentially permits from local municipalities for utility disconnections and foundation preparation. Check with all relevant authorities along your planned route.
FAQ 3: Can I move a trailer house myself?
While possible, it’s generally not recommended unless you have significant experience moving large objects and operating heavy machinery. The risks of damage and injury are substantial.
FAQ 4: How long does it take to move a trailer house?
The timeline can vary, but typically it takes several weeks to complete all the necessary preparations, obtain permits, and execute the move. The actual transportation may only take a day or two, but planning is crucial.
FAQ 5: What happens if my trailer house is damaged during the move?
If you’re using professional movers, their insurance should cover any damage. If you’re moving it yourself, you’ll be responsible for the repairs, highlighting the importance of adequate insurance coverage.
FAQ 6: What are the height and width restrictions for moving a trailer house on public roads?
Height and width restrictions vary by state, but typically, the maximum legal height is around 13.5 feet, and the maximum legal width is around 8.5 feet without special permits and escorts.
FAQ 7: Do I need to disconnect my utilities before moving?
Yes, absolutely. All utilities (water, gas, electricity, and sewer) must be disconnected before moving. Contact the utility companies well in advance to schedule the disconnections.
FAQ 8: How do I prepare the foundation at the new location?
The foundation must be level and stable. This may involve grading the ground, installing a concrete pad, or setting up piers. Consult with local building codes to ensure compliance.
FAQ 9: What type of insurance do I need when moving a trailer house?
You need comprehensive insurance coverage that protects against damage to the trailer house and other property during the move. Ensure your policy specifically covers the transportation of a manufactured home.
FAQ 10: Can I move a trailer house in the winter?
Moving a trailer house in the winter is generally not recommended due to hazardous road conditions and the potential for freezing temperatures to damage the plumbing.
FAQ 11: What should I look for when hiring a trailer house moving company?
Look for a company with experience, a good reputation, proper licensing and insurance, and positive customer reviews. Get multiple quotes and compare services carefully.
FAQ 12: What are some common mistakes to avoid when moving a trailer house?
Common mistakes include failing to obtain necessary permits, neglecting to properly prepare the trailer house for transport, and hiring inexperienced movers. Thorough planning and attention to detail are essential to avoid these pitfalls.
Conclusion
Moving a trailer house is a significant undertaking, but with careful planning and execution, it can be done successfully. By understanding the essential steps, obtaining the necessary permits, and carefully considering your options for transportation and setup, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free move. Whether you choose to hire professional movers or attempt a DIY move, remember that safety and preparation are paramount.