Mobile homes come with a unique kind of luxury: Freedom. As the name implies, mobile homes are “mobile” and can be relocated when it comes time for you to move. This means you get to forego some of the hassles associated with moving, such as finding the right home and getting approved for credit. Instead, all you’ve got to do is find a new tract of land for your existing home and then move your home. Follow these tips to successfully relocate your mobile home.
Start by assessing the condition of your mobile home
Before you make any concrete plans to relocate your home, stop to consider the home’s condition.
You’ll want to make sure the frame around the house is sturdy and not rusted. Any axles and tires that will be involved in the move should also be in excellent condition.
Most mobile home moving services hold you responsible for the cost of repairs required during the moving process, so be proactive and attend to problems before they start.
If you’ve moved your mobile home in the past and it suffered damage, chances are good it will be prone to the same type of damage. Keep this in mind as you prepare your home for a move.
Give yourself time to shop around
As with any major financial move, it’s important to shop around before you settle on a relocation company. Find out what companies are available for the type of transportation you need and make sure they cover the distance you need them to go.
It’s also a good idea to interview any transportation company you’re considering. Ask them about their fees and make sure they offer a signed contract with those fees stated. Look into their damage policies to make sure you’re covered in the event of a motor vehicle accident during transport.
In addition, it’s always a good idea to seek out references and referrals. If you know anybody who recently relocated a mobile home, ask them about the moving experience and find out whether they were satisfied with the company they used.
Make a pre-move checklist
The success of your move will depend largely on how prepared you are when it’s time to go. Take the time to prepare your mobile home for its relocation. Doing so will both reduce your stress level and your overall moving costs.
Complete the following as part of your pre-move activity:
- Pack your belongings
- Tape windows and mirrors
- Dismantle attached fences
- Remove obstructions like tree limbs
- Make any repairs necessary (Note: If you require repairs that may move your scheduled pickup date back, immediately notify the transportation company you planned to use so they can reschedule your pickup.)
Be aware that your moving carrier can refuse to transport your mobile home if it appears that transporting it will be unsafe. Similarly, cancelling a pre-scheduled pick-up less than 48 hours prior to the pickup time may mean you still have to pay transportation fees.
Prepare your new lot prior to delivery
If the lot you’re moving your mobile home to requires any kind of prep work, be sure to do that before the day of relocation. Figure out whether the lot requires electrical service such as meters power poles, or trenching.
Look at other move-in requirements such as trimming trees or moving fences to your home will fit into its allotted space.
If your lot is not ready by the day of delivery, you will be responsible for the cost of having your mover wait with your home on his truck.
Keep track of all financial documents
Review all the documents and charges you’re given prior to moving day. Retain a copy of all labor and service receipts for your own records. In many case, especially if your relocation was job-motivated, you’ll be able to use your moving expenses as a tax deduction.
Follow your mobile home to your destination
It’s a good idea to drive along with your mobile home mover. Though you have to be flexible and patient with traffic delays and slow progress, you get the benefit of knowing exactly what happened to your mobile home along the way.
While following your mobile home to its destination, be sure to keep your distance. The bulk and weight of a mobile home can make for some very serious traffic accidents when anything goes awry.
Despite the risks involved, moving your mobile home can be a successful experience as long as you’re prepared. Take the time to follow the steps on this list and you’ll do just fine.
