Moving a small house might seem impossible, but thousands of Americans successfully relocate their homes each year. In 2023, the Wolfe House Moving company alone relocated over 100 small houses across the United States, proving that house moving is more common than you might think. But before you decide to move your house, you need to understand the complex process that lies ahead.
Ever wondered why someone would choose to move their entire house instead of buying a new one? The answer might surprise you…
Moving a Small House
Moving a house sounds like a daunting task, doesn’t it? But surprisingly, moving a small house is more common than you think! Whether you’re relocating your home for a fresh start or saving on construction costs, this guide will walk you through every essential step. From planning permits to transportation logistics, moving your small house can be made smooth with the right approach. Fun fact: Did you know that some historic homes have been successfully moved to preserve their architectural charm? Let’s dive in and discover how you can make your small house move a breeze!
Assessing the Feasibility of Moving a Small House
The first step in any house moving guide starts with determining if your house can physically move. Not every house is a candidate for relocation.
A recent case study from Montana revealed that 90% of successful house moves involved homes less than 2,000 square feet. The structural integrity of the house plays a crucial role in this decision.
Key factors that determine movability include:
- Foundation type (basement vs. slab)
- Construction materials (wooden houses are easier to move)
- Overall condition
- Size and weight
The cost to move a house typically ranges from $14 to $16 per square foot, not including site preparation and utility work. That means moving a 1,000-square-foot home could cost between $14,000 and $16,000 for just the transport.
Securing Necessary Permits and Legal Requirements
Thinking about relocating a house? It’s a big decision! You’ll need to secure all the necessary permits for moving and figure out how much it costs. The overall cost can vary, but generally, building movers charge around $16 per square foot to lift and move the structure. The cost depends on factors like the weight of the house, distance of the move, and whether the house requires special handling.
If you want to move your house to a new location, you’ll also need a general contractor to help plan the move. They’ll coordinate with building movers to lift the house from the foundation and handle the logistics of getting your house to its new location. Don’t forget to account for the moving cost of utility lines and other infrastructure at the new site.
The total cost of moving a house isn’t just about the cost of moving the structure itself. You’ll need to consider if the new lot is ready and if any additional work is needed to make it livable. Every move is unique, and the costs of moving can add up quickly, especially if you’re moving an older or mobile home. Make sure to factor in these elements when deciding if it’s expensive to move your home move from one location to another.
Before you can even think about moving your entire house, you’ll need to navigate the complex world of house moving permits.
Here’s a shocking fact: In 2023, 35% of attempted house moves failed due to improper permitting. Don’t let this happen to you.
Required permits typically include:
- House moving permits from both origin and destination locations
- Transportation permits for each jurisdiction you’ll pass through
- Utility disconnect/reconnect permissions
- Zoning approvals at the new location
Choosing the Right Moving Company for a Small House
When it’s time to move your family house, choosing the right moving company is key. You need to move your house from one location to another, and here’s how much it costs: around $16 per square foot. Before making the decision to move, consider whether house moving makes financial sense.
It can be harder to move a small house than you think. The cost of the project includes not just moving the home, but also moving the building structure from one location to another. A contractor will have the new foundation ready, but you still need to consider whether house lifting and moving is worth it.
Sometimes, it’s cheaper to build a new one than move an entire house. If your house needs to be relocated, the cost to move an entire home can be significant. The house is lifted and transported, but the logistics can be a headache. Weigh the pros and cons before deciding if moving makes financial and logistical sense for your situation.
Finding professional house movers isn’t like hiring a regular moving company. You need house relocation experts who specialize in structural moving.
When evaluating house moving companies near me, consider:
- Years of experience specifically in structural moving
- Insurance coverage (minimum $1 million recommended)
- Equipment quality and maintenance
- Past project portfolio
One crucial detail many homeowners overlook: The cheapest bid often ends up being the most expensive in the long run.
Preparing Your Small House for the Move
Small house moving tips start with proper preparation. The process of moving requires meticulous attention to detail.
Essential preparation steps include:
- Disconnect the house from utilities
- Remove or secure all internal fixtures
- Brace windows and doors
- Document existing damage
- Prepare the house structurally
Did you know? A properly prepared 2,000-square-foot house typically takes 2-3 days to ready for transport.
The Moving Process: What to Expect on Moving Day
Alright, so moving day is finally here, and you’re probably wondering how much does it cost to move the house. Well, it can be a bit of a rollercoaster. Depending on the distance, you might be looking at around $14 to $16 per square foot to move a home.
But hey, it’s not just about the cash. There’s a lot involved in moving a house. Every little thing that needs to be moved adds up, and the whole house takes some serious planning.
So, as you move ahead, remember that each step of the house works like a charm when you’ve got a solid plan. Good luck with the move!
The actual process of moving a house is fascinating. First, house moving equipment lifts the structure using hydraulic jacks. Then, steel beams are inserted beneath the house before it’s placed on a special trailer.
Critical factors affecting the move:
- Weather risks when moving a house
- Route obstacles
- Traffic patterns
- Road conditions
Moving houses in rural areas often proves easier due to fewer obstacles and restrictions.
Setting Up Your Small House at Its New Location
Alright, so you’ve got your small house ready to roll to its new spot. Now, let’s talk flooring. If you’re going for the fancy stuff, it’s gonna run you about $16 per square foot. But hey, if you’re cool with something more budget-friendly, you’re looking at $14 per square foot.
Building a new foundation at the destination site must happen before the house arrives. This typically costs $10,000 to $40,000, depending on local factors.
The final phase includes:
- Setting the house on its new foundation
- Reconnecting utilities after moving house
- Structural inspection
- Repairs and touch-ups
One recent success story involved a historic Victorian home in Vermont. The owners saved $150,000 by choosing to move their existing house rather than build new, even after accounting for all moving expenses.
Remember: House moving requires careful planning, but the reward can be worth the effort. Whether you’re considering a move for historical preservation, environmental reasons, or cost savings, understanding these steps makes the process manageable.
Want to know if moving your house makes financial sense? The answer depends on several factors we haven’t covered yet…
Conclusion
Moving a small house may seem overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it can be an exciting and rewarding process! Remember to plan every step meticulously, from assessing feasibility to working with experienced movers. And once your small house is in its new location, you’ll appreciate the fresh start without having to build from scratch! If you’re ready to get started or have any questions, feel free to reach out to professionals or share your own house-moving experience in the comments. Happy moving!
Ready to start planning your house move? Contact local structural moving company experts for an initial consultation. The sooner you start planning, the smoother your transition will be.
