Boat Transport Services: Can I ship a Boat?

Introduction 

You finally find the boat you have been dreaming about forever; however, you discover it is three states away from where you are. Or maybe you are planning to move to another state, so you need to relocate the boat you spend summers with at your local marina. In both cases, you may ask yourself whether it is possible to use the same company you would normally use to transport your car to transport a boat.

Sure, it can be done. However, while some auto transporters also offer boat transport services to their customers, the process varies significantly depending on the size of the vessel. While a small boat that does not require a trailer can be relatively simple to haul, a boat without a trailer will definitely require lifting devices, a cradle, and other equipment. This is what you need to take care of.

Yes, You Can Ship a Boat — Here's How

Some auto transport companies also arrange boat shipping services, though a carrier that hauls cars does not necessarily have the equipment or experience to haul boats. A personal watercraft on a roadworthy trailer is a different job from a cruiser that needs a cradle, lifting equipment, and a carefully planned route.

Start with the boat’s length, beam (its widest point), height, and weight. Tell the transporter whether those measurements include a trailer, tower, or other equipment that cannot be removed. Accurate dimensions allow them to recommend a method and assess permit requirements before giving you a quote.

How Boats Are Transported

On its own trailer: If you have an appropriate trailer for your boat, you can use it for transport. It works perfectly for small boats, although the trailer has to make the whole journey, not just get you down to the launching ramp. Prior to pickup, all tires, bearings, lights, brakes, and hitch should be checked.

On a company-provided trailer or cradle: If you don’t have a suitable trailer, you can still transport your boat. In this case, a transporter can provide a trailer or build a cradle that matches the hull's shape. You may ask about the process of loading and unloading the boat from the trailer.

On a flatbed: A flatbed is an option to consider when there is no roadworthy trailer or your boat can’t be towed safely on the existing one. A suitable way to support your boat on the flatbed should be found by the carrier.

When a Boat Becomes an Oversized Load

While your boat can be moved on a trailer, it might still be too wide or too tall to travel on regular roads. The maximum width allowed in the United States along the National Network is 8 feet 6 inches. For the most part, each state your boat passes through will have its own Permit conditions based on your boat's size, weight, and the route you take. There may also be requirements regarding having to transport the boat with escorts or at specific times during the day. Ask the transporter to assess the full loaded dimensions across the entire route. For a larger vessel, look for experience with oversized load transport.

Preparing Your Boat for Transport

One rule of thumb for preparing your boat is to ask whether it will survive the highway wind and vibrations if left as is. This will make you consider closing and securing the hatches. You will also need to remove loose gear or secure any equipment the transporter agrees can remain aboard. Remove antennas and outriggers as instructed by your transporter. If a tower or arch can be lowered, discuss that before pickup because it may change the boat’s travel height.

If you will be using your own trailer, you will need to check the tires, bearings, brakes, lights, and hitch. Photograph the boat and trailer from several angles before the carrier arrives, including any existing scratches or damage. Then, ask about fuel, batteries, covers, and other preparation requirements. The right steps can vary by boat and carrier

What Affects the Cost of Boat Shipping

Boat size and weight: If your boat is larger or heavier than usual, you will need to rent equipment to transport it, which will cost you extra.

Trailer availability: If you have a suitable trailer you can use for your boat transport, you will end up spending less than if you arrange one. If your trailer needs any repairs, you will have to consider that too.

Permits and escorts: An oversize boat will mean additional permits, escorts, and route plans.

Distance and route complexity: The more miles you travel, the more money you spend. A hard-to-reach marina, a special route, or a lift required at either end may also affect your quote.

Give the company the boat’s actual measurements and pickup details when you get a shipping quote. Make clear that you’re shipping a boat so the estimate accounts for the equipment and handling it needs.

Choosing the Right Transporter

Not every carrier that moves cars can handle boats. Find out what kinds of boats this company has moved, what equipment will be used to transport your boat, and who will load and unload it. If you need permits, find out who will obtain them.

For a larger boat, find out how it will be supported and how the route will be checked. Experience with specialized freight carriers matters more here than a quick quote based on mileage alone.

Conclusion

Yes, you can ship a boat. The useful question is: what does your boat need to make the trip? That could be a roadworthy trailer, a supplied cradle or flatbed, loading equipment, or permits. Gather the measurements and trailer details first, then contact our transport specialists to discuss the route

FAQ

Do I need a trailer to ship my boat, or does the company provide one?

You don’t always need your own trailer. Some transporters can arrange a trailer, cradle, or flatbed. Confirm the equipment and any loading costs when you request a quote.

How much does it cost to ship a boat compared to a car?

There isn’t one reliable comparison. A small boat on a ready-to-tow trailer is a different shipment from a large vessel needing special supports, permits, and escorts. Request a boat-specific quote using its dimensions and route

What size boat requires an oversized load permit?

There is no single boat length that answers this. The loaded rig’s width, height, length, and weight matter, and rules vary along the route. The transporter should check the applicable state requirements before pickup.

Can I ship personal gear or equipment inside the boat?

Ask the transporter first. Loose gear can shift or be damaged, and the carrier may restrict what stays onboard. Remove valuables and secure any approved equipment as directed.

How do I prepare my boat before the transporter arrives?

Secure hatches and loose equipment, address removable items that add height, check your trailer if it will be used, and photograph the boat’s condition. Ask the transporter for its boat-specific preparation instructions well before pickup.