HOMES AND TRANSPORT METHODS

🚚 TYPES OF HOMES AND TRANSPORT METHODS

1. Mobile Homes (Manufactured Homes)

Typically single-wide, double-wide, or triple-wide structures.
Built in a factory and transported in sections to a site.

Transport method:

Towed on a steel chassis with axles and wheels (factory-built).
Sections are transported separately and assembled on-site.

2. Tiny Houses

Either built on a trailer chassis (Tiny House on Wheels – THOW) or on a foundation (modular tiny house).
Usually smaller and lighter than mobile homes.

Transport method:

Towed by a heavy-duty truck (for THOW).
Loaded onto a flatbed truck (for modular homes).

🧭 TRANSPORTATION PROCESS

Step 1: Preparation

Inspect the structure to ensure it’s transport-ready:
- Secure all loose items inside.
- Disconnect utilities (electricity, water, gas).
- Retract or secure awnings, steps, or solar panels.
Roadworthiness check:
- For THOWs or mobile homes with axles: inspect tires, brakes, and lights.
Permits:
- Obtain necessary oversize load permits from state/province DOTs.
- Route planning includes height, width, and weight limits.

Step 2: Loading and Hitching

For mobile homes:
- Attach to a towing truck (semi-truck or heavy-duty pickup).
- May need pilot/escort vehicles depending on the size.
For tiny houses on a foundation:
- Use a crane or forklift to place on a flatbed trailer.

Step 3: Transportation

Drive cautiously, often at reduced speeds (30–55 mph).
Use of escort/pilot cars:
- Required for wide loads (usually wider than 12 feet).
- Front and/or rear escorts, with “Oversize Load” banners and flashing lights.
Timing:
- May be restricted to daylight hours and certain weekdays.

Step 4: Delivery and Placement

Navigate local roads carefully to reach the site.
Use:
- Skid pads, jacks, or cranes to place the home.
- Blocking and leveling for mobile homes.
- Tiny homes may be backed into position or lifted into place.

Step 5: Setup

Reconnect all utilities.
Anchor the home for stability (especially mobile homes).
Assemble multiple sections if applicable.
Final inspection and permitting may be required.

⚙️ EQUIPMENT USED

Heavy-duty tow trucks or semis
Flatbed trailers
Hydraulic jacks or cranes (for lifting/leveling)
Wheel chocks, chains, tie-downs
Pilot escort vehicles with flags and signs
CB radios or GPS for communication and coordination

⚠️ SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Weather: High winds, rain, or snow can delay or restrict transport.
Legal limits: Most U.S. states limit:
- Width: 8.5 feet (permit needed for wider loads)
- Height: 13.5 to 14 feet
- Length: 40 to 60 feet
Insurance: Both transport insurance and cargo insurance are necessary.

✅ PROFESSIONAL DELIVERY VS DIY

Aspect	Professional Movers	DIY (Tiny House on Wheels)
Permits & Compliance	Handled for you	Must research and apply yourself
Equipment	Heavy-duty and specialized	May not have access
Safety	Trained for difficult conditions	Riskier for amateurs
Cost	Higher	Cheaper but riskier

💰 COST ESTIMATE (USA)

Type	Average Cost
Tiny House (local)	$500–$3,000
Mobile Home (single-wide, up to 100 miles)	$3,000–$7,000
Double-wide	$5,000–$13,000
Long-distance moves	$10,000+ (varies by size and mileage)