Patrick MacFarland · Updated April 11, 2025
Understanding Pontoon Boat Shipping
Shipping a pontoon boat requires special considerations due to their unique structure and dimensions. Pontoon boats typically have wider beams and specific weight distributions that affect transport methods and costs.
Types of Pontoon Boats and Their Characteristics
- Pontoon boats come in various sizes and configurations that directly impact shipping requirements. Standard pontoon boats typically range from 16 to 25 feet in length with two aluminum tubes (pontoons) that provide buoyancy. Larger luxury models can extend to 30 feet and feature triple pontoons (tritoons) for added stability.
- The average pontoon weighs between 2,000 and 3,000 pounds, though tritoons with outboard motors can exceed 4,000 pounds. Beam width is a crucial shipping factor, as most pontoons measure 8-12 feet wide, often requiring special permits for transport when exceeding standard road width limits.
- Fishing pontoons often have specialized compartments and lighter frames, while party barges and luxury models include heavier amenities like bars and extra seating. These features affect weight distribution during shipping.
Common Transport Methods for Pontoon Boats
The most common method for pontoon boat shipping is flatbed trucking with proper securing equipment. Your boat will be loaded onto a specialized trailer designed to support the pontoons’ unique structure and weight distribution. For oversized pontoons (over 12 feet beam width), you might require specialized transport services that cost between $2.75 to $3.75 per mile. Standard-sized pontoons typically cost $1.00 to $1.50 per mile according to recent shipping rate trends.
When preparing your pontoon for shipping, you should:
- Remove or secure all loose items
- Disconnect and secure outboard motors when possible
- Drain all water from the pontoons
- Cover sensitive electronics and seating
Professional transporters use special strapping techniques that account for the unique weight distribution of pontoon boats while protecting the aluminum tubes from damage during transit.
Cost Factors for Shipping a Pontoon Boat
Shipping a pontoon boat involves several key variables that directly impact your overall costs. Understanding these factors helps you budget effectively and avoid unexpected expenses when transporting your vessel.
Size and Weight of the Boat
The dimensions and weight of your pontoon boat significantly affect transportation costs. Larger and heavier boats require specialized equipment and more fuel to transport, increasing your overall expense. Standard pontoon boats ranging from 18 to 25 feet typically cost between $2.50 to $3.50 per mile to ship. For boats over 25 feet, expect to pay up to $5 per mile. Wider pontoons (over 8.5 feet) are classified as oversized loads and require special permits, adding $100-$500 to your total.
Weight also matters. Heavier pontoons need stronger trailers and more powerful trucks, increasing costs. Triple-tube pontoons generally cost 15-25% more to ship than comparable double-tube models due to their additional weight.
Size-Based Cost Estimates:
- 18-22 ft pontoon: $1.75-$2.75/mile
- 23-26 ft pontoon: $2.50-$3.75/mile
- 27+ ft pontoon: $3.50-$5.00/mile
Distance of the Shipping Route
- Distance is a primary cost determinant when shipping your pontoon boat. Longer routes naturally cost more in total, though the per-mile rate typically decreases with distance.
- For short distances under 100 miles, expect to pay $3-$5 per mile. Medium distances (100-500 miles) average $2.50-$3.50 per mile. For long-haul transport over 500 miles, rates often drop to $1.75-$2.75 per mile, though total costs will be higher.
- Geography matters too. Shipping across mountainous regions or through congested urban areas increases costs due to fuel consumption and time considerations. Remote pickup or delivery locations can add $200-$500 in detour charges.
- Routes with toll roads or bridges also impact pricing. Urban areas like Chicago typically have higher rates, with costs reaching $50,000 for specialized transport.
Seasonal Demand and Timing Considerations
The time of year you choose to ship your pontoon boat has a significant impact on price and availability of transport services. Summer months (May-August) represent peak season, when boat transport costs can increase by 20-30% due to high demand. Shipping during off-peak seasons (October-March) can save you 10-15% on transport fees.
Weather conditions also affect scheduling and costs. Winter transport in northern regions may require special preparation or delay shipments due to road conditions. Hurricane season in coastal areas (June-November) can create uncertainties and potential rate increases.
Timing Tips:
- Book 4-6 weeks in advance during peak season
- Save 10-15% by shipping in fall or winter
- Avoid holiday periods when rates increase
- Flexible pickup/delivery dates can reduce costs by 5-10%
Expedited shipping is available but costs 25-40% more than standard transport options.
Choosing the Right Transport Company
Finding a reliable boat transport company is critical to ensure your pontoon boat arrives safely at its destination. The right provider will have proper credentials, positive customer feedback, and adequate insurance coverage to protect your investment.
Evaluating Credentials and Experience
When selecting a boat transporter, verify they have proper licensing and permits from the Department of Transportation (DOT). A legitimate company will display their DOT number prominently. Check if they specialize in pontoon boat shipping specifically, as these vessels require special handling due to their unique shape.
Experience matters tremendously in boat transport. Companies that have been in business for 5+ years typically have developed efficient loading techniques and route planning. Ask potential transporters about:
- Number of pontoon boats shipped annually
- Experience with your specific boat size
- Specialized equipment they use for pontoon transport
- Safety record and accident history
Experienced transporters typically charge between $2.75-$3.75 per mile for boats over twelve feet. While this might seem higher than budget options, the expertise is worth the investment.
Reading Reviews and Checking References
Online reviews provide valuable insights into a company’s reliability. Check multiple platforms including Google, Yelp, and specialized boating forums like The Hull Truth where boat owners discuss their experiences.
Look for patterns in reviews rather than focusing on individual complaints. Common red flags include:
- Frequent delivery delays
- Damage reports
- Poor communication
- Hidden fees after initial quote
Don’t hesitate to request references from past customers who shipped pontoon boats specifically. Reputable companies will gladly provide these. When contacting references, ask specific questions about their experience, including timeline accuracy and condition of the boat upon arrival.
Understanding Insurance and Liability
Proper insurance coverage is non-negotiable when shipping your pontoon boat. Request proof of the transporter’s insurance policy before signing any agreement. The company should carry both cargo insurance and liability coverage. The standard minimum coverage should be equal to your boat’s full value. Many boat owners mistakenly assume their personal boat insurance covers transport, but most policies exclude commercial shipping.
When reviewing your transport quote, ensure it clearly outlines:
- Insurance limits and deductibles
- Claims process in case of damage
- Timeline for claim resolution
- Specific items covered (hull, motor, accessories)
Document your boat’s condition before shipping with detailed photos from multiple angles. This documentation is invaluable if you need to file a claim later.
Transport Quotes and Payment Options
Securing the right price for your pontoon boat transport requires understanding both the quoting process and available payment methods. Most transporters offer multiple payment options to make the transaction convenient and secure for boat owners.
How to Get an Accurate Transport Quote
To get an accurate transport quote for your pontoon boat, you need to provide specific details. These include the boat’s dimensions (length, width, height), weight, pickup and delivery locations, and preferred delivery timeframe. Pontoon boats with beams wider than 12 feet typically cost between $2.75 to $3.75 per mile.
When requesting quotes, contact multiple transport companies for comparison. Some companies offer instant online quotes, while others may need to review your information before providing a price.
Be prepared to answer questions about your pontoon’s specific features, such as:
- Exact measurements
- Whether it’s on a trailer
- Any special handling requirements
- Access limitations at pickup/delivery locations
Remember that the lowest quote isn’t always the best option. Check if the company has proper insurance and authority, as reputable companies typically start at $4.00 per mile for legally sized vessels.
Payment Methods and Processing Details
Most boat transport companies accept various payment methods including credit cards, bank transfers, and sometimes money orders. Credit cards are commonly used for deposits, which typically range from 10-25% of the total cost.
Payment timing is crucial to understand. The standard process usually follows this pattern:
- Deposit payment upon booking
- Remaining balance due at delivery or pickup
- Some companies may require full payment before transport begins
Be cautious of companies demanding full payment upfront as this can be a red flag. Legitimate transporters often charge between $1,000 and $1,500 for a ten-foot boat traveling 500 miles. Ask about any additional fees that might apply, such as fuel surcharges, residential pickup/delivery fees, or storage costs if delivery is delayed. These extras can significantly impact your final cost. Many companies now use secure online payment portals. This provides you with transaction records and payment confirmation for your protection.
Patrick MacFarland has been a teacher, a candidate for public office, and a local tour guide. But now he dedicates his time writing full-time, currently at CitizenShipper and VeraContent.
