DIY Mobile Home Move Requirements

⚠️ This guide is for OWNER-OCCUPIED MOVES in states that allow DIY transport (like Texas). Most states require licensed professional movers!

✓ Texas allows owners to move their own mobile homes if you're named on the title, own/lease the towing vehicle, and have $300,000+ liability insurance

1 Check State Eligibility First

Owner-Move Allowed States

Texas explicitly allows owners to move their own homes. Most other states require licensed professionals.

Professional Required States

States like Ohio, Alabama, California, and many others mandate licensed, bonded, and insured professional movers

                    CRITICAL: Before proceeding, verify with your state's Department of Transportation whether DIY moves are legal. In most states, attempting to move without a licensed mover results in fines, permit denial, and impoundment.
                

2 County & Title Requirements

Tax Clearance Certificate

Proof from County Treasurer that all property taxes are paid in full (past-due and current year)

Moving Permit

State/county permit authorizing the move. In Texas: $40 fee through TxDMV, valid 5 days

Proof of Ownership

You must be named on the title. Title and towing vehicle must both be registered to you.

Lienholder Authorization

Written consent from mortgage lender if there's a lien on the home

Many counties require pre-payment of estimated taxes for the remainder of the year before releasing the home.

3 Safety Inspections & Certifications

Pre-Move Safety Inspection

Inspector examines frame, axles, hitch, and I-beams for road-worthiness

HUD Data Plate Verification

Check wind zone compatibility. Cannot move from lower zone (Zone 1) to higher zone (Zone 2/3) unless home meets higher standards

Age Restrictions

Pre-1976 homes (before HUD code) may require additional safety inspections or may not be eligible for relocation in some jurisdictions

4 Oversize Load Permits & Routing

Oversize Permit

Required for EVERY state and county on route. Most mobile homes exceed 8.5 ft width.

Route Planning

Must verify clearance for all bridges, overpasses, and power lines. May require professional route survey for larger homes.

Travel Restrictions

Daylight hours only (typically 30 min after sunrise to 30 min before sunset). No weekends or national holidays.

12-14 ft Typical Home Width

Daylight Only Travel Hours

No Holidays Travel Restrictions

5 Escort Vehicle Requirements

Width-Based Requirements

12 ft or less: May not require escort. 12-14 ft: One rear escort. 14+ ft: Front and rear escorts typically required.

Escort Certification

Many states require P/EVO (Pilot/Escort Vehicle Operator) certification. Check if private vehicles are allowed or if certified escort services are mandatory.

Equipment Requirements

Escorts need "WIDE LOAD" banners, amber lights, two-way radio communication, and proper signage

6 Driver, Vehicle & Insurance Requirements

Commercial Driver's License (CDL)

Class A CDL required if Combined Gross Vehicle Weight exceeds 26,000 lbs (which mobile home + truck typically does)

Liability Insurance

Minimum $300,000 in Texas; $1M+ in other states. Personal auto policies exclude towing residences—must have commercial policy.

Specialized Towing Vehicle

Requires heavy-duty "toter" truck or semi with proper hitching system. Standard pickup trucks typically insufficient for safe transport.

Vehicle Registration

Towing vehicle must be owned or leased by you and properly registered

                    IMPORTANT: You do NOT need a USDOT number for moving your OWN home (non-commercial). However, you DO need proper CDL, insurance, and vehicle registration.
                

7 Pre-Move Preparation

Utility Disconnection

Disconnect water, electric, gas, and sewer. May require licensed professionals.

Skirting & Attachments Removal

Remove all skirting, decks, steps, awnings, and exterior fixtures

Interior Preparation

Secure all loose items, empty tanks, remove fragile items, brace cabinets

Axle & Frame Inspection

Verify axles, tires, and frame are transport-ready. May need tire replacement or frame reinforcement.

🚨 REALITY CHECK: While Texas allows DIY moves, most states require licensed professionals. Even where legal, DIY moves require: Class A CDL, $300K+ commercial insurance, specialized towing equipment, certified escorts, and extensive permits. Professional movers handle all permits, have specialized equipment, carry proper insurance, and ensure safe transport. DIY is rarely cost-effective when accounting for equipment rental, permits, insurance, escort services, and risk of damage.

How Can I Move a Mobile Home by Myself?

The Complete list of Requirement

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