For numerous boat owners, opting for commercial boat shipping is the preferred method of transporting their vessels, whether it be overland or by water. Boat shipping liberates owners from time-consuming commitments and the complex logistics involved in moving sizable vessels over long distances.

5 Reasons You Might Require Boat Shipping:

1. Relocation: When relocating to a new residence, the need to ship a boat often arises. Just as house movers pack and transport household items, boat shippers handle the same for your boat.

 2. Time Constraints: Boat shipping becomes a practical choice when time is of the essence. Crossing the Atlantic, for instance, can take up to a month, not to mention the additional preparation time. With boat shipping, you can fly to your destination and have your boat delivered there later.

3. Purchase: If you’ve purchased a boat outside your local area, engaging a boat shipper becomes the best—and sometimes the only—way to transport your boat to your home.

4. Repairs: Larger boats often require more complex repairs. Repair and maintenance services may not be available in your area, making shipping the most viable option.

5. Safety: For challenging journeys, such as crossing oceans during the winter season, the right equipment and experience are essential. Boat shipping circumvents these challenges, ensuring both the vessel and its owner’s safety.

Boat Shipping Methods:

Boat Trailer: Trailering a boat is the most common method for overland transport. This option is
frequently chosen by boat owners who store their vessels on their property or at a marine storage facility. Keep in mind that size limits vary by state, generally with a maximum beam width of eight and a half feet for public road travel. This method necessitates a suitable tow vehicle and trailer, factoring in the Gross Combined Vehicle Weight (GCVW), which includes the boat, trailer, tow vehicle, passengers, and gear.

By Water on Keel: Transporting a boat on its keel or bottom involves moving the vessel via navigable waterways. The longer and larger the boat, the more cost-effective this option becomes. While transporting the boat on the keel by yourself is the most economical choice, hiring a boat delivery captain and crew is an option if you lack the time or expertise. When opting for professional transporters, additional expenses include special insurance and the return flight costs for the captain and crew after completing the delivery.

Flatbed or Multi-Boat Trailer: A flatbed trailer is a suitable choice when the boat’s size, length, width, or
weight exceeds the limits of a standard boat trailer towed by a personal vehicle. Cradles are used to support the hull of the boat,  ensuring secure transport and preventing damage. Smaller boats are typically shipped on a step-deck, multi-boat hauler, while larger vessels are transported individually on a flatbed trailer. Special care is essential when lifting, bracing, and securing the boat to the transport vehicle.

Boat and Yacht Transport Ship: For long-distance or oceanic journeys, a boat transport ship is the preferred option. Ocean Transport Intermediaries (OTIs) or Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers(NVOCCs) are experienced in transporting boats of nearly any size from one port to another. While the most common boat sizes transported by ship range from 35 to 150 feet, some transporters can accommodate boats up to 260 feet. An advantage of using a boat transport ship is that it minimizes wear and tear on the vessel, delivering boats in excellent condition when handled with care.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Boat Shipping:

Size: Beam size, length, and weight are critical factors affecting the overall cost of boat shipping. Boat size has the most significant impact on shipping costs, alongside distance.
Distance: The number of miles covered by the boat and the mode of transportation (overland, on keel,or by water) determine the cost of shipping.
Destination: The final destination of the boat, not just the distance, affects the shipping cost. Some ports may impose additional charges, and the shipper may need to adjust the quote accordingly.
Season: Shipping prices tend to increase during the summer, the prime boating season. It’s essential to consider that embarkation and destination ports may not have the same seasons, impacting shipping times.

Qualities to Seek in a Boat Shipping Company:

Authorizations: Ensure that the chosen boat shipping company possesses proper authorizations and
licenses. Verification can be done by checking with the Federal Department of Transportation directly.

Insurance: Given the potential for accidents or minor damage during transportation, it’s crucial that the
boat shipping company carries adequate insurance. This can be confirmed through the SAFER system. Additionally, review your insurance riders with your insurance agent before shipping to ensure sufficient
coverage.

Payment Terms: Be cautious if the boat shipping company requests full payment upfront. Industry standard practice involves paying 50% upon the receipt of the boat by the shipper and the remaining 50% upon delivery to the customer.