Moving a tiny house is not the same as moving a traditional home. Whether your tiny house is on wheels (THOW), built on a trailer, or stationary and needs lifting, the process requires planning, permits, logistics, and the right equipment. Tiny homes are compact—but extremely heavy—so relocating one safely takes expertise.

This guide explains how do you move a tiny house, including costs, steps, requirements, safety rules, and how professionals help.

What Is Tiny House Moving?

Tiny house moving refers to relocating a small home (typically 10,000–25,000 lbs.) either locally or long-distance using a tow vehicle, heavy-duty trailer, or professional tiny home hauler. It involves:

• Securing permits
• Assessing structural stability
• Preparing utilities
• Loading and transporting the home
• Unloading and leveling it at the new site

Although tiny homes are compact, they require careful planning and skilled transport.

Is It Hard to Move a Tiny House?

Yes—tiny home relocation is complex because of:

• Weight and width restrictions
• State transportation laws
• Risk of structural damage
• Need for professional towing
• Road safety regulations

Attempting a DIY move is dangerous unless you have the right towing experience.

How do You Move a Tiny House: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Conduct a Structural Evaluation

Before anything moves, check:

• Trailer condition
• Tires and axles
• Frame strength
• Roof height compliance
• Attachment screws, bolts, anchors

A structural inspection prevents damage from road vibrations or wind pressure.

2. Measure the Height, Width & Weight

Every state has transport limits. Typically:

• Max height: 13.5 ft
• Max width: 8.5 ft
• Max weight: 16,000–24,000 lbs (varies by trailer)

Oversized tiny homes require escorts and special permits.

3. Get Necessary Moving Permits

For interstate moves, you may need:

• Oversize load permits
• Highway route permits
• Pilot/escort car permits
• Temporary license tags

Skipping permits leads to fines or denied highway access.

4. Disconnect All Utilities

This includes:

• Water lines
• Electrical hookups
• Sewer connections
• Propane tanks
• Solar panels
• AC units

Everything must be safely capped or stabilized.

5. Secure the Interior

Inside the tiny house:

• Remove or secure loose items
• Strap cabinets and drawers
• Take down decor and shelves
• Use foam padding and moving blankets
• Protect windows and glass
• Lock doors and roof hatches

Tiny houses can shake heavily during transport—interiors must be tightly secured.

6. Prepare the Exterior

On the outside:

• Remove exterior accessories
• Retract awnings
• Secure the skirting
• Brace siding if necessary
• Inspect trailer hitch and chains

Wind force during travel can cause damage if unsecured.

7. Choose the Right Transport Method

A. Tow Yourself (Only if Highly Experienced)

You need:

• A heavy-duty truck (20,000+ tow capacity)
• Trailer brakes
• Tow mirrors
• Insurance
• Moving permits

Not recommended for long-distance moves.

B. Hire a Professional Tiny Home Mover (Recommended)

Professional movers provide:

• Route planning
• Permits
• Pilot cars
• Equipment
• Insurance
• Safety inspections

This is the safest option for expensive tiny homes.

8. Load and Transport the Tiny House

Once hitched, the house is slowly driven along the pre-approved route. Pilot cars may lead or follow depending on width.

Long-distance tiny home movers use:

• Lowboy trailers
• Gooseneck trailers
• Hydraulic lift trailers

Transport speed typically stays under 55 mph to avoid wind damage.

9. Offload and Level the Tiny House

At the destination, movers will:

• Park the house in the planned location
• Level it on blocks, jacks, or a foundation
• Reconnect utilities
• Reassemble external features

Leveling is essential to prevent plumbing and structural problems.

How Much Does It Cost to Move a Tiny House?

Local Moves (Under 50 Miles)

$500 – $2,000

Factors: towing equipment, labor, permits

Long-Distance Moves (50–500+ Miles)

$2,000 – $8,000+

Oversized or Heavy Tiny Homes

$6,000 – $15,000+

Additional Fees

• Escort vehicle: $150–$300 per vehicle
• Permits: $50–$600
• Road/bridge tolls: varies
• Utility disconnection: $100–$500
• Site prep: $200–$1,000

Weight and width strongly influence pricing.

Can Any Mover Relocate a Tiny House?

No — not every moving company is qualified to relocate a tiny house. Tiny homes have unique structural and transportation requirements that make them more complex than standard household moves. Specialized tiny home movers understand how to handle structural vulnerabilities, manage weight distribution, and secure the home safely for long-distance travel.

They are also trained in highway regulations related to oversized loads, trailer safety standards, and the insurance requirements needed to legally transport a home on wheels. A regular moving company typically lacks the equipment, permits, and expertise to move a tiny house safely, which is why hiring a certified tiny home mover is essential.

How VanLinesMove Helps with Tiny House Relocation?

VanLinesMove connects customers with professional, certified tiny house movers across the country who specialize in every aspect of tiny home transportation. These experts are equipped to manage heavy-duty towing, secure transport, and complex logistics such as permits, pilot car coordination, and detailed route planning to avoid low bridges or restricted roads. They also provide proper insurance coverage to ensure the home is protected during the move, whether it’s across the state or across the country.

What makes VanLinesMove a trusted choice is the complete, end-to-end support they offer throughout the relocation process. Customers receive free quotes from licensed tiny house movers who are experienced in transporting oversized loads and handling homes weighing up to 25,000 lbs. The service includes help with documentation, affordable long-distance moving solutions, and continuous assistance until the tiny home safely reaches its destination. With VanLinesMove, homeowners get a reliable, safe, and stress-free way to relocate their tiny house.

Whether you're moving across town or across states, we find the right mover for your tiny home.

Conclusion

Tiny houses are small but complex to relocate. Moving one requires the right planning, equipment, permits, and expertise. Whether you're upgrading your lifestyle, relocating for work, or seeking fresh scenery, hiring a professional tiny house mover ensures a safe and stress-free move.

With VanLinesMove, you can connect with trusted tiny home movers offering safe transport, transparent pricing, and nationwide coverage.

FAQs: How Do You Move a Tiny House?

1. Can you move a tiny house by yourself?

Yes, but only if you have the right truck, tow capacity, and permits. Most homeowners hire professionals for safety.

2. How fast can you drive with a tiny house?

Typically 45–55 mph to protect the structure from wind damage.

3. What size truck do you need to tow a tiny house?

A heavy-duty truck (F-350, RAM 3500, Silverado 3500) with a towing capacity of 20,000 lbs or more.

4. Do tiny houses need moving permits?

Yes—oversized homes require state-issued transport permits and often escort vehicles.

5. Can a tiny house be shipped instead of towed?

Yes, movers can load it onto a flatbed or lowboy trailer for long-distance or cross-country moves.

6. How far can you move a tiny house?

Anywhere in the U.S., depending on permits and route approval.

7. How much does it cost to move a tiny house long-distance?

Between $2,000 and $15,000 depending on distance, weight, and oversized requirements.