Moving a tiny house to a new location may sound like a nightmare, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re relocating for work, chasing better weather, or simply craving a change of scenery, moving your tiny home is possible…but requires careful planning and attention to detail.
Here’s a guide to help you move your tiny house from one property to another with minimal stress and maximum success.
1. Check Local Zoning Laws and Regulations
Before you even think about moving your tiny house, make sure your new location is legally viable. Tiny homes are subject to zoning laws, building codes, and housing regulations that vary by state, county, and city.
Research these laws thoroughly to confirm that your tiny house is permitted on the property. Pay special attention to the requirements for:
- Minimum lot sizes
- Utility hookups
- Whether tiny houses are considered permanent residences or RVs
You don’t want to go through the trouble of moving only to find out your home isn’t allowed at your destination.
2. Inspect and Prepare Your Tiny House for the Move
Before transporting your tiny house, it’s essential to ensure it’s ready for the journey. Start by inspecting the structure for any vulnerabilities that could lead to damage during the move. Check for loose siding, roofing, or windows that might need reinforcement.
Secure furniture, appliances, and decorations to prevent them from shifting or breaking while in transit. Pack fragile items separately, just as you would for a traditional move. Make sure all doors and drawers are locked or taped shut to keep them from swinging open.
Finally, if your tiny house has wheels, inspect the tires, brakes, and axles to confirm they’re in good condition. A flat tire or brake failure in the middle of a move can derail your plans quickly.
3. Obtain the Necessary Permits
Moving a tiny house often requires permits, especially if it’s classified as an oversized load. Each state has its own permitting process, and skipping this step can result in fines or legal issues.
As over-dimensional trucking provider DAL explains, “Moving over-dimensional loads requires careful planning to ensure that the chosen route can accommodate them. Each state issues permits that outline the approved routes for transporting oversized loads. The cost of these permits can vary significantly depending on factors such as the state, roads used, time of year, and load size.”
When applying for permits, be prepared to provide details about your tiny house’s dimensions, weight, and intended route. Factor permit costs into your budget, as they can vary widely.
4. Hire a Professional Moving Company
Unless you have significant experience with towing and oversized loads, hiring a professional moving company is often the safest and most efficient choice. Look for an oversized mover who specializes in tiny houses or similar loads, as they’ll have the expertise and equipment needed to handle the job.
5. Plan Your Route Carefully
Whether you’re moving the tiny house yourself or working with a professional, the route you take is critical. Oversized loads can’t always travel on standard roads due to height, width, or weight restrictions.
Use tools like Google Maps or specialized trucking apps to identify potential obstacles like low bridges, narrow roads, or sharp turns. Also, you’ll want to consider factors such as traffic patterns, weather conditions, and construction zones, as these can affect your timeline.
Your route must align with the permits issued by the state, which often specify approved roads. Deviating from these routes can lead to fines or delays, so double-check your plans before hitting the road.
6. Coordinate Utility Hookups at the New Location
One of the most overlooked aspects of moving a tiny house is ensuring that utilities are ready at your destination. If your new property doesn’t already have hookups for water, electricity, and sewage, you’ll need to arrange for installation before you arrive.
Contact local utility providers well in advance to schedule service connections. If your tiny house relies on off-grid systems like solar panels or composting toilets, inspect and prepare these systems to ensure they’re ready for use at the new site.
7. Secure the New Foundation
If your tiny house will be stationary at the new location, you’ll need to prepare its foundation before moving day. Common foundation options include concrete pads, piers, or gravel beds, depending on your house’s design and the property’s terrain.
Work with a contractor or follow manufacturer recommendations to ensure the foundation is level and stable. A secure foundation prevents long-term structural issues and keeps your tiny house safe in adverse weather conditions.
Post-Move Adjustments
Once your tiny house is at its new location, expect to spend some time adjusting and settling in. Recheck all interior and exterior components for damage or misalignment that may have occurred during the move.
Reconnect utilities, stabilize the house if necessary, and make any repairs or adjustments to ensure everything is functioning properly. Moving can be stressful, but taking the time to address these details helps your new space feel like home again.
