Moving a Double‑Wide Trailer

[MikePhua]

Overview of Double‑Wide Trailers
A double‑wide trailer, also known as a double‑wide mobile home or manufactured home, typically consists of two factory‑built sections joined together onsite to create a larger living unit. In the U.S., such units commonly measure between approximately 20 to 36 feet in width and 32 to 80 feet in length, producing living spaces of roughly 1,600 to 2,500 square feet.  Because of their size and structural design, transporting or relocating a double‑wide involves special handling, planning, and compliance with wide‑load regulations.
Planning and Regulation Requirements
Moving a double‑wide trailer is significantly more complex than relocating a single‑wide; the larger dimensions mean more permits, route surveys, and specialized transport equipment. Some key regulatory considerations include:

• Oversize‑load permits: Many states treat units wider than 14 feet (or other thresholds) as oversized, requiring special permits and possibly escort vehicles.
  
• Route clearance and posting: Transporting a double‑wide may involve more than one truck (often two halves) and may be limited to certain roads, times, or days.
  
• Load configuration: Because of the width and weight, transport may require each section to be on its own chassis or wheels for safe movement and to meet axle‑load limits.
  
• Utility and structure preparation: Prior to moving, attachments such as porches, awnings, skirting, and utilities must often be disconnected; interiors cleared; and the structure properly supported and secured for transport.
  

Technical and Logistics Considerations
When preparing for the move, many technical factors come into play:

• Weight and size: For example, older manufactured homes may weigh 35–50 lbs per square foot; a 1,000 sq ft unit might weigh ~35,000–50,000 lbs.
  
• Transport equipment: Low‑bed trailers, removable goosenecks (RGNs), or multiple trucks may be required depending on length/width.
  
• Time and coordination: Costs rise sharply with distance; one estimate lists ~$4,000 per 100 miles just for a double‑wide move.
  
• Structural integrity: The unit must be able to withstand the stresses of movement—bolt patterns, frame condition, wall anchors must be checked.
  
• Site preparation: Arrival site must have foundation or piers ready, utilities disconnected/reconnected, and the route surveyed for overhead clearances.
  

Field Example
A homeowner in Texas obtained permits to move a 24 ft‑wide by 64 ft‑long double‑wide unit 80 miles to a prepared lot. The operation required two tractor‑trailers, an escort vehicle, a police flag‑truck for highway crossing, and disconnection of decks, skirting and utilities beforehand. Preparation (including site foundation, utility prep and route clearance) took five days; transport and set‑up another two. The total cost approached $10,000, aligning with published ranges for such moves.
Recommendations and Checklist

• Confirm unit dimensions (width, length), weight, and condition before scheduling transport.
  
• Engage a licensed manufactured‑home mover familiar with double‑wide logistics.
  
• Begin permit process early—some states require weeks to process oversize permits.
  
• Clear route: verify overhead obstacles, roadway widths, bridge weight limits.
  
• Disconnect utilities and remove accessories (skirting, decks, porches) ahead of time.
  
• Ensure arrival site is ready: foundation, piering, utility hookups.
  
• Budget for transport costs plus set‑up and utility reconnection; double‑wide moves often cost 2–3× more than single‑wide.
  
• Inspect the home’s frame and chassis to ensure it’s structurally sound for transport.
  

Terminology Glossary

• Double‑Wide: A manufactured home made of two parallel or side‑by‑side sections joined on site, producing a broad floor‑plan.
  
• Oversize Load: A load that exceeds standard legal size or weight limits for transportation, requiring special permits or escort vehicles.
  
• Removable Gooseneck (RGN): A type of trailer where the front portion detaches, enabling a load to be placed low to the ground for transport.
  
• Skirting: The material around the base of a manufactured home enclosing the perimeter under the unit once installed.
  
• Charter Loads / Non‑divisible Loads: Loads that cannot be broken down for transport and thus require special handling and permits.
  

Conclusion
Relocating a double‑wide trailer involves far more than just hooking it up and hauling it down the road. With large size and weight, the move demands careful planning, regulatory compliance, and adequate structural preparation. By understanding the logistics, engaging seasoned mover services, and preparing both the structure and site properly, owners can execute a successful move that unlocks the value of their manufactured home while controlling costs and ensuring safety.