Boat Transport with uShip
We know when it comes to shipping your boat, you want the safest transport at the best rate, and with uShip, you can find just that! We'll help you figure out how to transport a boat, help you find reliable transporters at the best rates, and give you tips on preparing your boat for transport. If the waters get choppy, we're here to navigate you back on course with your boat transport. Contact us before, during, or after your shipment for support.
Talk to boat transporters directly, read ratings and reviews, see their transport history, and get rates all in one stop. Create your listing with the needs of your shipment, the make and model of your boat, and be as detailed as possible. Once you've completed your shipment listing, transporters who specialize in boat hauling will start sending you quotes as they compete for your business. You're able to talk to the carriers, review their transport history, safety records and customer-rated feedback as they compete for your business.
How to Choose a Boat Trailer
Communicate with your service provider about boat transport trailer options, as they will need to know how you want your boat to be transported. You can have your boat transported on its own trailer, however most companies can provide one for you.
- Your Own Trailer: If you use your own trailer or cradle, you must take full responsibility of any damage or mishaps that may occur as a result of your trailer not being fit for transport. Be sure to inspect your trailer thoroughly, checking the securing devices, lights and tires. Note: It is suggested that wooden boats be transported in their own custom cradle, because these are made to spread the boat’s weight properly.
- The Carrier’s Trailer: If using one of the transporter’s boat trailers, discuss with them any specific details they may need you to comply with. Provide your transporter with accurate dimensions of your boat. The transporter will also inform you about how they will load and unload your boat. Research and inform yourself about the different options of boat trailers there are, as you may end up picking one company over another based on the boat trailer transport they offer.
How to Ship Your Boat Internationally
When planning to ship your boat overseas, there are a couple different options to explore:
- Roll-on/Roll-off: Also called “RO/RO”, your boat stays on a trailer (either your own or the carrier’s) for the entire trip. This is the most common option in international boat shipping. To reduce the overall height and volume of your boat remember to remove or lower booms, antennas, and radar towers. This will greatly reduce costs as the shipping companies will usually measure the overall height including the trailer.
- Enclosed Container: Most large shipping vessels carry these containers. You may want to choose this option if your boat fits within the standard dimensions (40’ long, 7’10” high, 7’8” wide). Containerized services are usually much less expensive than RO/RO, but the height requirement includes any trailer height as well. Make sure to ask carriers about different containerized options available.
- Flat Rack: Typically used for oversized boats. A boat is shipped in its own custom cradle, strapped into the flat rack, and secured to the vessel. It is highly recommended that items such as arches or the bridge be removed and safely secured. By removing bulking items you can save hundreds of dollars on your freight.
- Submersion: Your boat is loaded and unloaded directly from the water.
Whenever shipping anything overseas, make sure to prepare any legal and customs documents ahead of time. A good place to start would be with the foreign embassies or consulates in the country to which you are transporting your boat for more information about proper documentation. By investigating and following the correct registration procedures you will save yourself from undue stress, wasted time and any potential hazards.
Winterizing your boat before shipping is highly recommended. Failure to do so can result in ruined engines and interior damage. Shrink wrapping is an option that is highly valued for keeping your boat clean and safe, and can also provide a level of deterrence and safety while your boat is in transit. It is also a good idea to ship your valuable electronic components separately so they do not get “lost” during shipping.
As always, make sure you are comfortable with your shipper. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about transporting your boat or asking for advice on how to best ship your boat internationally. Most carriers have decades of experience and can guide you to the cheapest, safest way to ship your boat overseas.
How Much Does Boat Transportation Cost?
The cost for boat transportation depends on the distance and the needs for your boat to be safely transported. The average cost is around $600 to $1,000 for longer hauls and $150 to $350 for shorter distance transport.
For a closer look at what it might cost to transport your boat, take a look at uShip's cost to ship boats index to view shipments like your's completed through the uShip marketplace. This will also give you a good idea of how we work.