Lot of things has to be considered before shipping your boat. Most of the preparation has to be done by the owner or agent. The boat transporter you have contracted with can be a great resource of information. If you have more time than money you will be able to save more and get to know your boat a little better at the same time.
Measurements are very important when requesting a quote to have your boat transported. If you want to measure your boat for transportation, follow the guidelines below. All your measurements should be accurate.
- First put your out drivers or motors in raised position and then measure the overall length and breadth of the boat. Do include out drivers or motors, bow pulpits, swim platforms and motor brackets.
- If you want to measure the height of the boat, it is important that you start from the highest part of the vessel which cannot be removed to the bottom of the keel.
Before you start preparing your boat for safe transport, take a few minutes to read this guide. We recommend you follow these guidelines, so that your boat is transported safely.
- If any damage occurs during loading or improper preparation by the shipper, boat transporter is not responsible.
- It is important to note that your boat is properly transported because if it is not properly prepared it will be shipped in an “as in condition” and carrier will not be responsible for damages.
- Legal height for transporting a boat through roadways is 13’6”.
- More clearance is required for larger boats, as the load is higher.
- Make sure the boat transportation company offers voyage insurance that will adequately protect your vessel if anything goes wrong.
- Power down everything, unplug your batteries and store your cables to prevent any contact. You don’t want dead batteries when your vessel is offloaded at your destination.
- It is important for you to bring your original registry and boat keys on the date of your trip. If you are going on an international voyage see to it that you have all the necessary custom papers.
- If you are moving from an infected state, inspect the boat. Check engines intake strainers and all other through hull fittings. DOT officers do check boat for Zebra mussels at weigh stations. If they find zebra mussels, your boat will be seized.
- All items in the interior cabin should be carefully inspected to make sure they are battened down securely, including hatches.
It is important to inspect the boat rigorously, to find out if there is any damage. If any damage has occurred, contact the transport company to avoid complications.
