Moving a static caravan involves more than just loading it onto a lorry and driving away. Before anything can leave a pitch – and before it can settle properly on its new one – the unit needs to be carefully lifted off its stands, disconnected, positioned and re-levelled by a team that knows exactly what they’re doing. That physical lifting, positioning and levelling work is called de-siting and re-siting, and it’s just as important to get right as the road journey itself.
What de-siting and re-siting actually covers
De-siting is the work carried out at the collection point: jacking the unit up from its axle stands or chassis supports, freeing it from any anchors or tie-downs, and manoeuvring it off the pitch so it can be loaded onto the low loader. Re-siting is the mirror process at the destination: rolling the unit into position, jacking it level, setting it down correctly on fresh stands, and making sure it’s watertight and stable before anything else happens.
For a twin-unit park home, this work is more involved – both halves must be de-sited separately, transported, brought together on the new pitch, and rejoined and resealed along the ridge and junction so the home is properly weathertight again. You can read more about that in our guide to moving a twin-unit static caravan.
What our team does on the day
Our siting crews follow a consistent sequence on every job. At collection: we confirm utilities are off and signed off, jack the unit clear of its axle stands or chassis supports using hydraulic equipment, free any ground anchors or tie-downs, then manoeuvre the unit into position for loading. At destination: we position the unit onto the prepared base, jack and level it using hardwood packers and heavy-duty axle stands at the correct chassis load points, set it down on stands, fit corner steadies, and re-check level across both axes. For twin-units we then bring the two halves together, rejoin the internal connection and reseal the ridge and side junction to make the home weathertight.
Getting level right matters. A unit that is even slightly off can develop sticking doors and condensation problems over time, and puts uneven stress on the chassis. See our guide on why levelling matters for more detail.
What you need to arrange yourself
Utility disconnection must be done and signed off by a suitably qualified professional before we lift a unit – a Gas Safe engineer for gas, a Part P qualified electrician for electricity, a plumber for water and drainage. At the destination, reconnection follows the same rule. Some parks insist only their own approved contractors disconnect on-site, so check your pitch licence agreement early. Static Caravan Movers does not carry out certified utility work and is not liable for it – see our Caravan Disconnect & Reconnect page for guidance on finding the right trades.
Skirting and decking removal is normally the owner’s responsibility before we arrive. We can include it in your quotation if preferred – just mention it when you enquire.
How much does de-siting and re-siting cost?
De-siting and re-siting is priced separately from the road transport element. As a guide:
| Unit type | Typical de-site & re-site range |
|---|---|
| Standard single unit (up to ~40ft) | £300 – £1,200 |
| Larger single or specialist home | £1,200 – £2,500 |
| Twin-unit (both halves, rejoin & reseal) | £4,000 – £5,000 |
The figures above reflect the siting labour only. Road static caravan transport starts from £950 and is quoted separately based on distance, unit size and route complexity. For a full picture of what a move costs end to end, our UK price guide breaks down all the elements.
Factors that can push siting costs towards the top of the range include: difficult pitch access, ground conditions requiring additional packing, twin-unit re-sealing complexity, and skirting/decking refitting.
Pitch access – what to check before booking
A common source of delay is a pitch that a low loader cannot reach. Check road width (most low loaders need at least 3.5m clear), overhead obstacles such as low branches or power lines, tight turns the trailer cannot take, and ground conditions – soft ground can sink under a loaded transporter. Tell us the park and pitch number when you enquire and we’ll assess access as part of route planning. Our guide on how to move a static caravan step by step covers site surveys in full.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between de-siting and removing a static caravan?
De-siting means lifting the unit off its supports ready for transport to a new location. Removal or disposal means taking it away with no intention to re-site it. Both begin with the same physical process. If your park has issued a notice, our guide on moving after a site closure or eviction explains your options.
Can the park insist on doing the de-siting themselves?
Yes, some parks bundle de-siting into their disconnection charge and require their own team to do it. Check your pitch licence agreement before booking any external contractor.
Do I need to be present on the day?
It is advisable, particularly at the destination – you can confirm orientation, check doors and windows open freely, and sign off the finished position. A nominated representative works equally well if you cannot attend.
How long does re-siting take on arrival?
A standard single unit on a prepared pitch typically takes two to four hours. A twin-unit including joining and resealing usually takes a full day or more. See our guide to move timelines for a breakdown by unit type.
Does the pitch base need to be ready before you arrive?
Yes – the base must be level, firm and capable of supporting the unit’s weight (concrete slab, compacted hardcore or equivalent). If it’s not ready when we arrive, work cannot proceed and an abortive visit charge may apply. Most parks specify their own base standard, so confirm this in advance.
Is siting included in your transport quote?
No – de-siting and re-siting are priced separately from road transport. Tell us when you enquire whether you need transport only, siting only, or both, and we’ll build a single coordinated quote.