If you’ve ever searched for “mobile home towing” or “towing mobile home,” you might assume towing and transporting are the same thing. But when it comes to moving a mobile home, the difference is huge. A proper mobile home transport service is very different from simply towing a vehicle, and knowing the difference can save you time, money, and stress. Let’s break it down.
What Is Mobile Home Towing?
“Towing” usually refers to pulling a car, RV, or trailer with a standard tow truck. Some people think the same applies to mobile homes, but it’s not that simple.
Not Legal in Most Cases: Mobile homes require special permits and escorts, which typical towing companies don’t provide.
Not Safe: Standard tow trucks don’t have the equipment to safely handle the size and weight of a mobile home.
Limited to Short Distances: Even if it’s possible, towing isn’t a safe or practical long-term solution.
What Is Mobile Home Transport?
Mobile home transport is the professional service designed specifically for relocating manufactured and mobile homes. It includes:
Specialized Trucks & Trailers: Designed for heavy loads like single-wides and double-wides.
Permits & Escorts: Ensuring compliance with state and local laws.
Full-Service Preparation: Disconnecting utilities, removing skirting, and preparing the home.
Setup at New Site: Leveling, blocking, tying down, and reconnecting utilities.
Licensed & Insured Professionals: Protecting your home during the entire move.
Learn more about these services on our services page.
Key Differences Between Towing and Transport
Feature
Towing
Transport (Professional)
Equipment
Standard tow truck
Specialized transport rigs
Permits & Legal
Rarely included
Required and secured by mover
Safety
Not designed for large homes
Safe for single-wide & double-wide
Distance
Limited, short hauls
Local and long-distance
Services
Just pulling a load
Full prep, transport, and setup
Costs to Expect
Mobile Home Towing: Rarely offered legally, and limited if so.
Mobile Home Transport: $3,000 – $20,000+ depending on size, distance, and services.
Legal & Safe: Transport complies with state regulations.
Protects Your Home: Specialized equipment prevents damage.
Peace of Mind: Full-service movers handle permits, escorts, and setup.
Final Thoughts
While towing works for cars and small trailers, moving a mobile home requires professional transport. Choosing licensed mobile home transport companies ensures your move is safe, legal, and stress-free.
Ready to move your home the right way? Explore our services or visit our blog.
When planning to relocate a manufactured or modular home, one of the most common concerns is cost. While you may have already asked, “How much does it cost to move a mobile home?” the truth is that your final quote depends on several variables. In this guide, we’ll dive deeper into the factors that influence mobile home moving rates so you know exactly what to expect when requesting a quote.
Key Factors That Affect Mobile Home Moving Rates
1. Distance of the Move
The farther you need to move your home, the higher the cost. Local moves within the same city or county are far less expensive than cross-state or long-distance relocations. Long hauls may also require multiple escort vehicles and higher fuel charges.
2. Size and Type of Mobile Home
Single-Wide: Typically less expensive to move.
Double-Wide or Triple-Wide: Require splitting, additional equipment, and more labor.
Modular Homes: May involve special transport and setup requirements.
3. Permits and Escorts
Each state requires permits for oversized loads, and some routes require police or pilot car escorts. These fees add directly to your moving rates.
4. Preparation Work
Before your home can be moved, utilities must be disconnected, skirting and decks removed, and the structure inspected for stability. The more preparation needed, the higher the cost.
5. Setup Services at the New Location
Many movers offer full-service packages that include delivery, leveling, foundation setup, and utility reconnections. While convenient, these services increase the overall rate.
6. Time of Year
Peak moving seasons (spring and summer) often come with higher demand, which can drive up prices. Scheduling your move in late fall or winter may help reduce costs.
Average Mobile Home Moving Rates
Here’s a general idea of what you might expect:
Single-Wide (short distance): $3,000 – $8,000
Double-Wide (short distance): $5,000 – $13,000
Long-Distance Moves: $10,000 – $20,000+
Keep in mind that these are ballpark figures. For an accurate quote, request a consultation through our contact page.
How to Get the Best Quote
Compare Multiple Movers: Don’t settle for the first quote—compare several.
Ask About Inclusions: Make sure your quote covers permits, escorts, and setup services.
Bundle Services: Movers may offer discounts for combined transport and setup.
Do Prep Work Yourself: Disconnecting utilities and removing external features can reduce labor costs.
For a full list of professional services, explore our services page.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what impacts mobile home moving rates helps you plan a realistic budget and avoid surprises. Factors like distance, home size, permits, and setup services all play a role in determining your final moving quote.
For more tips and insights on mobile home relocation, check out our blog or get started with a personalized moving quote today.
Moving a mobile home is not the same as loading up boxes and calling a moving truck. It requires careful planning, special equipment, state permits, and a team of licensed professionals who know the rules and logistics of mobile home relocation. If you’re searching for mobile home movers in Wisconsin, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible. For more insights on moving services, check out the Mobile Home Moving Companies blog.
Why Hire Professional Mobile Home Movers in Wisconsin?
While it might be tempting to save money by attempting a DIY move, relocating a mobile or manufactured home is a job best left to experts. Here’s why:
Permits and Regulations: Wisconsin has strict rules about moving oversized loads, and your mobile home falls into that category. A licensed mover will obtain the proper permits from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.
Specialized Equipment: Mobile home movers use hydraulic jacks, specialized trailers, and escort vehicles to safely transport homes.
Safety and Insurance: Hiring professionals ensures your home is protected in case of damage during transport.
Time Savings: An experienced crew can handle setup, teardown, and transport efficiently, saving you weeks of hassle.
For a complete list of services that professional movers offer, you can explore the services page here.
Inspect your home to ensure it’s structurally sound for transport.
2. Permits and Route Planning
Professional mobile home movers in Wisconsin secure moving permits and plan the safest, most efficient route. They also handle scheduling escort vehicles if required by state law.
3. Lifting and Loading
Your home is carefully lifted using hydraulic equipment and placed on a specialized trailer.
4. Transport
The home is transported to its new location. Depending on the distance, this could take a few hours or a couple of days.
5. Setup at New Location
Movers position your home, level it, reconnect utilities, and reinstall skirting or decks if part of the service package.
The cost to move a mobile home in Wisconsin varies based on several factors:
Distance: Local moves are more affordable than cross-state relocations.
Size of the Home: Single-wide, double-wide, or triple-wide homes require different equipment and crew sizes.
Setup Services: Costs increase if you need full teardown and reinstallation services.
Permits and Escorts: State permits and escort vehicle requirements also add to the cost.
On average, homeowners in Wisconsin can expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on these factors. For an accurate estimate, it’s best to get a custom quote from trusted mobile home moving companies.
Tips for a Stress-Free Mobile Home Move in Wisconsin
Plan Early: Start at least two to three months ahead.
Budget Realistically: Factor in hidden costs like utility hookups, skirting, and landscaping.
Hire Licensed Movers: Always verify insurance and state licensing.
Prepare Your Home: Secure windows, doors, and remove exterior add-ons.
Communicate Clearly: Stay in touch with your movers to avoid last-minute surprises.
Popular Wisconsin Cities for Mobile Home Moving
Milwaukee: Urban relocations require extra permits and route planning.
Madison: Popular for relocations between mobile home communities.
Green Bay: Movers here are experienced with rural and suburban moves.
Eau Claire: Known for long-distance and cross-state moves.
Whether you’re moving across town or across Wisconsin, choosing the right moving company can make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Moving a mobile home in Wisconsin doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the help of professional movers, proper planning, and the right resources, you can enjoy a stress-free relocation. If you’re ready to start planning your move, explore our services or contact us today for a personalized quote.
