How To Transport a Boat Cross Country: Comprehensive Guide

Are you considering taking your boat cross country for a big race or to explore new waterways? But are you daunted by the thought of transporting it? Relax. Transporting your boat cross country can be a simple and straightforward process when you work with the right transportation partner. Here is what you need to know for shipping a boat cross country safely and efficiently.

Preparing Your Boat For Transport

Before transporting a boat cross country, you must prepare it to ensure it arrives safely at its destination. To prepare your boat, you should follow these steps:

1. Inspect Your Boat 

The first step in preparing your boat for transport is to inspect it. Check the boat for any damage or defects before the transportation team arrives. Note any damage and take pictures so that you can compare the boat’s condition before and after transportation.

2. Clean Your Boat 

Cleaning your boat before transportation is not just to make it look good. It lowers the chances of dirt and debris scratching your boat during transport. Scratches may not seem like a significant issue, but they can quickly turn into more significant problems if left unattended.

3. Secure Loose Items 

Make sure to remove all loose items that could move around during transport, such as seat cushions, boat covers, and gear. Secure any items left on the boat, such as anchors, dock lines, and fenders, with strong tape or strapping to keep them in place during transport.

4. Drain All Fluids  

Drain all fluids from your boat. This includes fresh water, sewage and drainage water, and fuel. This step is important because it protects the boat, the transportation equipment, and the environment.

5. Disconnect Electronics  

To protect the boat’s electronics during transportation, you should disconnect all electronics from power sources.

Choosing Your Transport Partner

Choosing the right transportation partner is crucial to ensure that your boat safely arrives at its destination. Here are some things to consider when choosing a transportation partner:

Insurance and License

Make sure that the transportation partner has proper insurance and licenses to operate. You don’t want to find out that you’re not covered if the boat is damaged during transport.

Experience

Choosing a transportation company that has years of experience transporting boats ensures that they know how to handle your boat safely and efficiently.

Reviews and Ratings

Check for reviews and ratings online. Look for companies with positive feedback and high ratings.

Transport a Boat Cross Country: Top Methods

Choosing the right method can be challenging, as several factors come into play. Let’s explore the top methods for transporting a yacht cross country.

Transport a Boat Cross Country: Land

Transporting a boat cross country on its trailer is the most popular method. Transporting your own boat can be hazardous, particularly if you lack experience, despite being a cost-effective option.

To ensure a safe delivery, it’s recommended that you hire a professional for boat transportation cross country. Professionals can load boats onto flatbeds or step-deck trailers and transport them between different locations. Your boat must meet specific requirements, such as not being wider than 12 feet, the total height not exceeding 13 feet 6 inches, and the total gross weight not being more than 80,000 pounds.

If your boat meets all the requirements, you can hire a professional to deliver it with a flatbed or multi-boat trailer. If your boat is larger, you can opt for transportation via truck, which is more expensive due to overweight or oversize permits, and possibly escort vehicles.

Transport a Boat Cross Country: Ship

For larger or high-end boats, a yacht transport ship may be the best option for cross country boat transport. Although significantly more expensive, it’s a secure and reliable method. When opting for this shipping method, hiring an experienced, reputable, and professional company for boat transportation cross country is essential.

Smaller boats can be shipped within a safe container or roll-on roll-off (RORO). While the container option allows you to send other belongings besides the boat, securing the boat inside the container can be challenging. On the other hand, the RORO option is more secure, and there’s less risk of damage, but it’s more expensive for boat transport cross country.

Boat Cross Country: Drive 

While many boat owners decide to transport a boat cross country on their own, it can be challenging and time-consuming, especially for long-distance trips. Alternatively, you can hire a professional captain for boat transportation cross country to transport your boat, but this can be expensive, considering fuel costs, insurance, and flying the captain home.

It’s important to be prepared for potential extra expenses that may arise due to mechanical problems, severe weather conditions, and other unforeseen circumstances if you’re driving a boat cross country.

FAQs: Transport a Boat Boat Cross Country

What are the factors to consider when transporting a boat cross country?

When transporting a boat cross country, you need to consider several factors, including the size and weight of your boat, the distance to be covered, and the cost of transportation.

How can I ensure the safe transportation of my boat cross country?

To ensure the safe transportation of your boat cross country, you should hire a reputable and experienced company that specializes in boat transportation. They will have the necessary equipment and expertise to handle your boat and ensure its safe delivery.

How much does it cost to hire a professional for cross-country boat transportation?

The cost of hiring a professional for cross-country boat transportation varies depending on several factors, including the size and weight of your boat, the distance to be covered, and the method of transportation.

Can I transport my boat cross country via ship?

Yes, you can transport your boat cross country via ship, especially if you have a larger or high-end boat. You can ship it inside an enclosed container or roll-on roll-off (RORO).

What are the different options for shipping a boat cross country?

The different options for shipping a boat cross country include shipping it on its trailer, via a yacht transport ship, or hiring a professional captain to transport it.

Can I transport my boat cross country on my own, and what are the potential risks involved?

Yes, you can transport your boat cross country on your own, but it can be challenging and time-consuming. Potential risks include accidents, mechanical issues, and severe weather conditions.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, transporting your boat cross country doesn’t have to be a challenge. Preparing your boat, selecting the right transportation method, and partner is the key to a smooth move.

If you’re looking to transport a boat cross country but worried about the challenges it may present, look no further than CitizenShipper!

With our expert team and top-of-the-line transportation methods, we guarantee a smooth and hassle-free move for your boat. We understand the importance of proper preparation and selection of the right partner, which is why we go above and beyond to ensure your boat arrives safely at its new destination.

Proper preparation and selection of the best transportation partner will ensure that your boat safely arrives at its new location. With this guide, you can confidently transport your boat cross country hassle-free!