Factors that Affect Relocation Costs

The process of relocating an office trailer is not as simple as it sounds. Let’s clarify one thing: if you are renting from a local supplier and just need to have your trailer removed, usually that just means a phone call to your supplier to schedule the removal. But relocating a trailer unit to a separate site is a bit more complicated. Believe it or not, in many cases, it is actually more cost-effective to rent a separate office trailer than to pay the cost to dismantle, move, and install the unit on a completely new site.

9 Factors that Affect the Cost to Relocate

1. Cost of labor to dismantle trailer
2. Utility cancellation fee
3. Travel distance to new site
4. Size/weight of trailer
5. Regional market price for oversized moves
6. Building permit fee for new site
7. Cost of labor for new site prep (foundation leveling, securing unit to ground)
8. Replacement cost for accessories like underbelly skirting, ramps, stairs, etc.
9. Potential damage to windows, doors, interior furnishings during move

The cost to move an office trailer can range from $1,500 to $15,000 (with a rate of $5-$10 per mile), depending on the number of miles traveled and the size and weight of the trailer.

Pros of Relocating a Mobile Office Trailer:

• Cost savings on purchasing a new office trailer
• Potential for cost savings on rent or property ownership
• Could be a faster alternative

Cons of Relocating a Mobile Office Trailer:

• Wear and tear on the office trailer from transportation and set-up
• Additional maintenance and repair costs
• Zoning and permitting requirements may add additional time and cost to the relocation process.

Pros of Renting a New Office Trailer:

• No wear and tear from transportation and set-up
• No additional maintenance and repair costs
• Zoning and permitting requirements can be handled by the rental company
• The option to upgrade to a newer and larger office trailer if the business expands.

Cons of Renting a New Office Trailer:

• Ongoing rental costs that could be higher than the cost of owning
• Limited customization options as it will be a standard rental unit.

How to Reduce Relocation Costs

• Empty trailer of all furniture, electronic equipment, kitchen appliances, etc.
• Lock, secure, and cover windows and doors to prevent damage.
• Re-use foundation materials such as blocks, piles, skirting, etc.

In summary, it is important to perform a detailed and itemized price comparison of the cost to relocate vs. rent or buy a new unit. You may be surprised by the results. If you want to find a new mobile office trailer or want to work with a reputable mobile office supplier, you can get started at 360Connect!