There are many things do while preparing your boat for transport but being organized and proactive can help the task become much more manageable.

One key to being ready is to start preparations about a month in advance. This will give you plenty of time to collect information on your boat, find a transporter, coordinate with the marina, and prepare your boat for transport, while still leaving yourself room for unplanned adjustments. 

Most transporters will want the dimensions, make and model of your boat as there are maximum height and width requirements that they are required to follow, and will need special permits and routes if exceeded.  Measure the length, height, and width of the boat. Try to be as accurate as possible and include motor brackets, rub rails, and any other non-removable protrusions. For sailboats, the boom may need to be disassembled in preparation for transport.

Before you contact a transporter, make sure you have dates, as well as the origin and destination for your haul. When talking to transporters, make sure that the quotes include any permits, insurance or fees, and if these are not included, request estimates. Make sure to request documentation for variable costs such as gas, permits, tolls, etc., upon delivery, to ensure they were accurately invoiced. When shopping for quotes, be wary of unusually low estimates, which may come with many hidden fees, or lack of proper insurance or licenses. It is very important to confirm that the carrier can provide Motor Carrier (MC) and Department of Transportation (DOT) numbers and ensure that they are a legal carrier. You can confirm their credentials and safety records on www.safersys.org

Service providers will not be held liable for damages that happen from improper preparation and loading. Before dismantling your boat, remove all personal items. Clean and inspect your boat for any damages. Make a list of any damages you note and take pictures. The transport provider will also create a pre-shipping “condition report”.

In preparation for transport:

·         Secure and seal all hatches, and tape windows from outside. Remove any anchors from deck.

·         Drain all fuel and water tanks. In winter months any water pumps, air conditioners, etc should be drained of all water for transport.

·         Disconnect any batteries and store any cables to prevent shortages.

·         Any accessory sticking out from the hull needs to be removed and safely packed.

·         A mast that has been removed because of excess height should be secured to the trailer, not the boat. This should be protected by padding or carpet at the spots it is tied to the trailer, if not completely wrapped to avoid damage from road vibrations.

In addition, communicate with your transport provider to ensure that you follow any special instructions that they may have. If you are using your own trailer, it needs to be fit for long-distance transport. Using your own trailer increases your liability for damages incurred during transport, as the company cannot guarantee the trailers condition. Confirm arrangements for loading and unloading your boat with the marina, and that any special docks or machinery are available on the day of the move. Don’t forget to contact your insurance company and inform them of the move; they may require you to purchase special insurance so as to not void your policy.

Being prepared, and clearly communicating with your transporter, can save you a lot of headaches and reduce the risks of a move. The better prepared your boat is for the trip, the more likely it is to arrive securely.