NEED TO SHIP YOUR BOAT ACROSS COUNTRY?
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List Your Boat for Easy Transport
Compare Boat Shipping Costs & Transport Options
Get boat shipping quotes from carriers experienced with cross-country, seasonal, and oversized boat transport.
Compare Boat Shipping Quotes
TOP ONLINE BOAT SHIPPING SITE
INSTANT RATES (NO WAITING)
EXPERIENCED PROVIDERS
SECURE PAYMENTS5/5
Rebecca
"Our boat arrived in perfect condition."
5/5
Jaime
“In every interaction with the team members they have gone above and beyond to ensure I was satisfied with the results.”
5/5
Scott
“Shipment was without issue and handled with extreme care. Would highly recommend!!”
5/5
Jim
"We have been working with uShip since 2013 and have always been satisfied with the results."
5/5
Brian
"I can find that hard to deliver item a dependable driver and research their past feedbacks on the platform."
5/5
Nate
"My shipper was great! On time both for pick up and drop off would highly recommend."
5/5
Jonathan
"Have used uShip twice to ship a motorcycle purchased out of state. The entire experience has been top notch each time."
5/5
Liz
"It was relatively easy to find a shipper and payment was pretty seamless."
5/5
Sheleigh
"Super easy and quick! Very pleased! I will certainly use this platform again."
5/5
Tony
"The delivery went without a hitch and I cannot say enough good things about the shipper!"
5/5
Alaina
"Wonderful service!!!!! Felt safe and comfortable with how they do payments too! Shipment went better and quicker than expected!!"
5/5
Stephen
"uShip provides a service that is unlike anyone else on the planet and I am thankful for it!"
Boat Shipping Is Common For…
Whether you're buying, selling, relocating, or storing a boat, professional transport can help move your vessel safely and efficiently.
Boats Purchased Online
Transport boats purchased through Facebook Marketplace, Boat Trader, Craigslist, and other online marketplaces.
Out-of-State Boat Purchases
Expand your search beyond local inventory and ship a boat home from another state.
Seasonal Relocation
Move your boat between seasonal destinations to follow the boating season.
Yacht Transport
Ship yachts, sailboats, and other large vessels between marinas, owners, or events.
Marina-to-Marina Delivery
Transport a boat between marinas for storage, service, sale, or a change of home port.
Snowbird Relocation
Move your boat between northern and southern destinations as you relocate throughout the year.
Auction Boat Purchases
Ship boats purchased at auctions to a marina, storage facility, or private residence.
| Option | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Ship your boat with uShip | Long-distance moves, boat purchases, relocations, larger vessels | Avoid towing, reduce travel time, and compare quotes from experienced boat transporters |
| Tow it yourself | Short local moves, smaller trailerable boats | Requires a suitable tow vehicle, trailer, equipment, and towing experience |
| Rent a truck and tow | Occasional boat moves without a tow vehicle | Rental, fuel, and insurance costs can add up, especially on longer routes |
| Pick up from the marina yourself | Nearby purchases and local transfers | May require significant travel time and towing logistics |
| Drive cross-country with your boat | Experienced boat owners with flexible schedules | Adds travel costs, mileage, time on the road, and towing-related wear and tear |
How Long Does it Take to Ship a Boat?
The shipping time for a boat can vary depending on the size of the vessel, the transportation method, the shipping distance, and the transport company's schedule. Generally, domestic boat shipping within the same country can take anywhere from a few days to weeks. On the other hand, international boat shipping can take several weeks to months, depending on the distance, customs clearance, and weather conditions. It's always best to check with the shipping company for specific timelines and details.
BOAT TRANSPORTATION QUOTES
Check prices and book a boat shipping carrier of your choice
Compare Boat Shipping Quotes| Distance | Average transit time |
|---|---|
| 0-1000 Miles | 1-2 Days |
| 1000-1500 Miles | 2-3 Days |
| 1500-2500 Miles | 4-5 Days |
| 2500+Miles | 6-7 Days |
IMPORTANT: The average transit times shown up above can be affected by boat size, weather and road conditions, traffic, etc.
Types of Boats We Ship
Whether you're moving a fishing boat across the state, purchasing a sailboat out of state, or transporting a personal watercraft to your favorite lake, carriers on uShip can transport a wide range of vessels. Compare boat shipping quotes from experienced transporters and find a solution that fits your boat, route, and budget.
Powerboats
Fishing boats, center consoles, cruisers, pontoon boats, wake boats, and other motorized vessels.
Sailboats
Day sailors, catamarans, racing sailboats, and larger cruising sailboats.
Personal Watercraft & Other Boats
Jet skis, WaveRunners, Sea-Doos, dinghies, inflatables, kayaks, canoes, and other small watercraft.
Boat Parts
Boat engines, outboard motors, marine equipment, trailers, and oversized boat components.
How Much Does Boat Transportation Cost?
Boat shipping costs vary based on factors such as boat size, weight, shipping distance, route complexity, transport method, and seasonal demand. As a general guideline, boat shipping costs typically range from a few hundred dollars for smaller boats traveling shorter distances to several thousand dollars for larger boats, yachts, or long-distance shipments.
Common factors that affect boat shipping costs include:
- Boat size and weight: Larger vessels typically cost more to transport.
- Distance: Longer routes generally result in higher overall shipping costs.
- Transport method: Land transport is often more affordable than overseas or specialty transport.
- Permits and escorts: Oversized boats may require special permits or routing.
- Seasonality: Peak boating and moving seasons can increase demand and pricing.
The best way to determine your boat shipping cost is to gather accurate boat dimensions and compare multiple boat shipping quotes. Reviewing several quotes can help you understand current boat hauling rates and find an option that fits your budget and timeline.
Domestic Boat Shipping
Whether you're moving a boat across the state or across the country, most domestic boat shipments travel by road using specialized trailers and equipment. The exact transportation method depends on your boat's size, route, and shipping requirements.
Carrier Type
Choose a transporter with the equipment and trailer needed to safely move your boat.
Route Planning
Distance, road conditions, and access to pickup and delivery locations can affect transport options and pricing.
Permits & Requirements
Oversized boats may require special permits, routing, or additional transportation planning.
Loading & Unloading Equipment
Some boats require cranes, forklifts, travel lifts, or other equipment for pickup and delivery.
International Boat Shipping
While most boat shipments on uShip take place throughout North America, some transport providers may be able to assist with international boat transportation.
International boat shipping often requires additional planning, customs documentation, and specialized transportation methods. Depending on the vessel's size and destination, boats may be transported using:
- Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo): The boat remains on a trailer throughout transit.
- Shipping Containers: Suitable for smaller boats that fit within standard container dimensions.
- Flat Rack Shipping: Common for oversized boats that exceed standard container sizes.
- Submersion Transport: Used for certain specialized vessels and routes.
Requirements, availability, and costs vary based on the destination, vessel dimensions, and transportation method. If you're exploring international boat shipping options, creating a listing is free and can help you determine what transport providers are available for your route.
BOAT TRANSPORTATION PROTECTION
When entrusting your boat to a transporter, it's essential to ensure that they have adequate insurance coverage. We advise reviewing your chosen transporter's insurance policy before handing over your boat. For added protection, we recommend purchasing a uShip Protection Plan. Gain peace of mind knowing you're covered against damage and loss with an all-risk, comprehensive protection plan that protects your shipment at a competitive cost.
What Actually Affects Boat Shipping Costs?
No two boat shipments are exactly alike, which is why boat shipping costs and hauling rates can vary significantly. Here are the biggest factors that influence pricing:
Boat Length
Longer boats typically cost more to transport because they require larger trailers, more space, and additional handling.
Beam Width
Wider boats may require oversized-load permits, escort vehicles, or special routing, which can increase transportation costs.
Boat Height
Taller boats can create transportation challenges and may require alternate routes to avoid low bridges, power lines, and other obstacles.
Trailer Included or Not
Boats that come with a roadworthy trailer are often easier and less expensive to transport than boats that require specialized hauling equipment.
Pickup & Delivery Accessibility
Transporting a boat to or from a marina, storage yard, or remote location may require additional coordination, equipment, or labor.
Flexibility on Shipping Dates
Flexible pickup and delivery windows may help you access more transporter options and potentially lower boat hauling rates.
Distance
Longer shipments generally cost more overall, although the cost per mile may decrease on longer routes.
Oversized Permit Requirements
Boats that exceed legal transportation dimensions may require permits, escorts, or special routing, which can add to the total shipping cost.
Seasonal Demand
Boat shipping demand often increases during peak boating and relocation seasons, which can affect pricing and availability.
Route Popularity
Common shipping lanes may have more transporter availability and competitive pricing, while less-traveled routes can sometimes cost more.
How Boat Shipping Works on uShip
Shipping a boat might sound complicated, especially if you've never arranged transport before. Whether you're moving a boat across the state, purchasing one out of state, or planning seasonal transport, uShip makes it easy to compare boat shipping quotes and connect with experienced transport providers.
1. Create Your Boat Shipment Listing
Start by entering your boat's dimensions, pickup and delivery locations, and preferred shipping dates. Providing accurate details helps transporters understand your shipment and provide more accurate boat shipping quotes.
2. Compare Boat Shipping Quotes
Once your listing is live, transport providers can submit quotes for your shipment. Compare pricing, customer reviews, transport experience, and service options to find a carrier that fits your needs and budget.
3. Choose a Carrier and Schedule Pickup
After reviewing your options, select the transporter that's right for you. You'll be able to coordinate pickup timing, discuss transport requirements, and confirm any important shipment details before your boat is moved.
4. Prepare Your Boat for Transport
Before pickup, remove or secure loose items, document your boat's condition, and complete any preparation steps recommended by your transporter. Proper preparation helps ensure a smooth shipping experience.
5. Pickup, Transit, and Delivery
Your transporter will pick up the boat, transport it to its destination, and complete delivery according to the agreed schedule. Throughout the process, you can communicate directly with your transporter and stay informed about your shipment's progress.
Boat Shipping Frequently Asked Questions
Is My Boat Insured During Transport?
Insurance coverage varies by transporter. Before booking, review the carrier's insurance information and ask questions about coverage limits, exclusions, and claims procedures. It's also a good idea to document your boat's condition with photos before pickup. Understanding your transporter's coverage can provide added peace of mind throughout the shipping process.
How Do I Ship a Boat Domestically?
To ship a boat domestically, you'll typically need your boat's dimensions, pickup and delivery locations, and preferred timeline. Once you have those details, you can compare boat shipping quotes from transport providers and select the option that best fits your needs. Transport methods vary based on the boat's size, route, and transportation requirements.
How Do I Ship My Boat Internationally?
International boat shipping often requires additional planning, documentation, customs coordination, and transportation logistics. While uShip specializes in boat shipping throughout North America, some transport providers may be able to accommodate international shipments. Creating a listing is free and can help you determine what options are available for your route.
How Are Boats Transported?
Most boats are transported over land using specialized trailers and hauling equipment. Larger vessels may require oversized-load permits, route planning, or additional equipment for loading and unloading. Depending on the boat's size, destination, and shipping requirements, transport providers will determine the most appropriate transportation method.
How Can I Get the Best Price for Boat Shipping?
One of the best ways to save money is to compare multiple boat shipping quotes before booking. Being flexible with pickup and delivery dates can also help. Accurate boat measurements, realistic timelines, and clear shipment details allow transport providers to offer more accurate pricing and help you find competitive boat hauling rates.
How Do I Prepare My Boat for Shipping?
Before transport, clean and inspect your boat, remove or secure loose items, and document its condition with photos. Depending on the vessel and transport method, you may also need to drain fluids, disconnect batteries, or remove accessories. Your transporter can provide any preparation requirements specific to your shipment.
What Kind of Boat Trailer Should I Use?
The right trailer depends on your boat's size, weight, and design. Some boat owners use their own trailer, while others work with transporters who provide the necessary hauling equipment. If you plan to use your own trailer, inspect the tires, lights, brakes, and securing equipment before transport.
How Do I Measure My Boat for Transport?
For an accurate boat shipping quote, you'll typically need your boat's overall length, height, beam (width), and weight. Be sure to include trailers, motors, swim platforms, and other components that affect the boat's dimensions. Accurate measurements help transport providers determine equipment requirements and provide more accurate pricing.
FINALLY, SHIPPING BOATS IS EASY
List your boat at the price you want to pay and select a carrier that suits your needs
Compare Boat Shipping Quotes