Even in this best-case scenario, though, you’ll almost certainly have to pay to move your stuff (which can’t be kept in the mobile home during its move), and there are always various fees, taxes, and so on that crop up. So it’s always going to cost you something to move!
Right about now, it might be tempting to think about moving the mobile home yourself—it is mobile, after all! But moving a mobile home is a unique process that requires specific equipment and skills. It’s also illegal in many places to attempt a DIY mobile home move—so it’s best to just stick with the pros.
“What kind of insurance do you carry, and is this included in the quoted amount?” “Will you take care of the process and cost of getting the necessary permits?” “What needs to be done to prepare my mobile home for the move? How much of that preparation will be done by you, and how much is my responsibility?” “Are there any “hidden charges” here for things like cleaning up the site after loading up my mobile home, moving any attached porches or awnings, and so on?” “Can you give me referrals for at least three past customers?”
Get boxes for packing by visiting grocery stores and other retailers—they’ll probably be willing to give you boxes for free. For high-value or heavy items, however, you may want to invest in higher-quality moving boxes. Pack boxes with items based on their size/weight, location (kitchen, etc. ), and importance (i. e. , pack “need right away” stuff together). Rent a moving truck to pack and drive yourself to save money compared to hiring full-service movers.
You might replace or just temporarily board up a window that’s loose or rattling, for example. If your mobile home has a shingle-style roof that has seen better days, it may make sense to remove the old roofing material before the move and then install new shingles afterward.
If you’re relocating to a mobile home community, confirm that they permit home installations on weekdays (and not just weekends) before booking a midweek date with your mover.
In the U. S. , use the NADA Manufactured Housing Appraisal Guide (the “blue book” of mobile homes) to determine the value of your current mobile home and any you’re interested in buying.
“By “free move,” are you offering me a free spot in your community as well as covering the cost of moving my mobile home from its old spot to its new location?” “What expenses will I be responsible for?” (For example, moving your stuff in the mobile home, site preparation, permits and fees, and so on. ) “If you’re covering the cost of the move, do you get to choose the moving company or is that my choice?” “After my “free move,” what kinds of rental charges, upkeep fees, etc. , will I be responsible for over the long term?”
Search online for reviews of the community, and take note especially of any recurring negative (or positive) feedback. Talk to some of the residents without the community management present and ask their opinions on the pros and cons of the community. Remember that the short-term benefit of a “free move” probably isn’t worth the cost if you end up stuck in a mobile home community that doesn’t suit you. You’re better off paying to move to a community that truly meets your needs.
