Mobile homes offer flexibility and affordability, but when it’s time to relocate one, homeowners quickly realize it’s not as simple as moving furniture across town. The logistics, permits, and specialized equipment make moving a mobile home in California a significant undertaking.
If you live in Kenwood, CA, or the surrounding Sonoma County communities, you might be asking: How much is it to move a mobile home in California?
While the exact cost depends on many factors, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know: what affects the cost, hidden fees to watch out for, and why hiring a professional moving company is the smartest choice for this type of relocation.
What Makes Mobile Home Moves Different
Unlike a standard house move, relocating a mobile home requires:
- Specialized equipment to lift, secure, and transport the structure
- Permits and inspections to comply with California housing and transportation regulations
- Professional movers trained in structural relocation, not just furniture handling
- Coordination with local authorities for road access, escorts, and safety
This level of complexity is why mobile home moves in California are best handled by experienced moving companies.
Key Factors That Affect the Cost of Moving a Mobile Home
1. Size of the Mobile Home
- Single-wide, double-wide, and larger units all require different transport methods.
- The bigger and heavier the home, the more equipment, manpower, and planning required.
2. Distance of the Move
- Local moves within Sonoma County may cost less than relocating across California.
- Longer distances add mileage, fuel, and additional labor.
3. Setup at the New Location
- Beyond transportation, you’ll need the home re-leveled, secured, and reconnected to utilities.
- Site preparation can add to the total cost.
4. Permits and Legal Requirements
- California requires specific permits for moving mobile homes, which vary by county.
- Escort vehicles or road closures may be required for oversized units.
5. Accessibility and Route Challenges
- Narrow roads, steep driveways, or limited access points add complexity.
- Obstacles like power lines and trees may require special coordination.
6. Condition of the Home
- Older mobile homes may require reinforcement before transport.
- Fragile structures may take longer to move safely.
Main Cost Drivers for Moving a Mobile Home in California
| Factor | Impact on Moving Costs | Example in Sonoma County |
| Size of Mobile Home | Larger = higher costs | Double-wide vs. single-wide |
| Distance of Move | Longer = higher costs | Kenwood to Santa Rosa vs. Kenwood to Los Angeles |
| Setup at New Location | Adds labor & equipment | Leveling, anchoring, utility hookups |
| Permits & Regulations | Mandatory in California | County/state permits, escort vehicles |
| Accessibility & Route | Affects time & planning | Narrow vineyard roads, low bridges |
| Home Condition | May need reinforcement | Older homes vs. newer models |
Hidden Costs People Often Overlook
When budgeting for a mobile home move, it’s important to account for hidden costs, including:
- Permit fees for transportation and relocation
- Escort vehicles for wide-load transport on highways
- Utility disconnections and reconnections (water, gas, electricity, sewer)
- Site preparation such as grading or foundation adjustments
- Repairs if the structure is damaged during transport
- Storage costs if the new site isn’t ready when the home arrives
These hidden costs can make the process more expensive than anticipated, which is why working with a professional moving company is essential for accurate estimates.
The Process of Moving a Mobile Home
- Initial Inspection – Movers evaluate the size, condition, and access points of the home.
- Permit Acquisition – Necessary state and county permits are secured.
- Preparation – Utilities are disconnected, and the structure is reinforced.
- Transport – The mobile home is carefully lifted, loaded, and moved to the new location.
- Set-Up – At the destination, the home is leveled, anchored, and utilities reconnected.
This multi-step process shows why hiring movers who specialize in mobile home relocation is crucial.
Local Considerations in Kenwood, CA
Kenwood and Sonoma County offer unique challenges for mobile home moves:
- Rural and vineyard properties often mean narrow or winding roads that require careful navigation.
- Seasonal tourism traffic may affect scheduling and transport times.
- County permit regulations differ slightly from neighboring regions, requiring local expertise.
Working with movers familiar with Kenwood and surrounding towns like Glen Ellen, Santa Rosa, and Sonoma ensures a smoother experience.
Why Hire Professionals for a Mobile Home Move
Moving a mobile home isn’t a DIY project. It requires expertise in structural relocation, heavy equipment, and strict adherence to California’s moving regulations.
Benefits of Hiring Professionals
- Experience with mobile home logistics
- Access to specialized tools and vehicles
- Compliance with state and county laws
- Insurance coverage to protect your investment
- Time and stress savings compared to navigating the process alone
Hansen’s Moving & Storage: Your Trusted Moving Experts
For residents of Kenwood, CA and the surrounding Sonoma County communities, Hansen’s Moving & Storage is the reliable choice when it comes to moving mobile homes. With years of experience in both residential and specialized moves, our team understands the challenges unique to this region.
Bringing You Home Starts Here – Hansen’s Moving & Storage is committed to making your mobile home move safe, efficient, and stress-free. From handling permits to ensuring your home arrives in perfect condition, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
📍 Hansen’s Moving & Storage is conveniently located at 7975 Cameron Drive, Suite 1100, Windsor, CA 95492. Contact us today at 707-837-8043, 1-800-426-7361 (1-800-Hansen1), or email hansensmoving@gmail.com. Visit us at hansensmoving.net to learn more.
Tips to Reduce Mobile Home Moving Costs
- Plan ahead – Book your move early to avoid peak-season rates.
- Prepare the site – Make sure your new lot is ready before the move to avoid storage fees.
- Declutter – Remove unnecessary belongings from inside the mobile home to reduce weight.
- Work with local experts – Local movers know the permit process and regional challenges.
- Bundle services – Choose a company that can handle transport, setup, and storage together.
So, how much is it to move a mobile home in California? The cost depends on size, distance, permits, and setup, but one thing is certain: this type of move is a complex process that requires professional handling.
For homeowners in Kenwood, CA and Sonoma County, working with a trusted company like Hansen’s Moving & Storage ensures your mobile home is relocated safely, efficiently, and with peace of mind.
Don’t leave your mobile home move to chance. Contact Hansen’s Moving & Storage today to start planning your relocation with confidence.
