How Marine Transport Services Work

By Shirley Williams


Having a boat is one of those luxuries that can actually happen for many, depending on what size you want. While a multi-million dollar yacht is out of reach for most, having a much smaller vessel can be surprisingly affordable. However, unless you buy from someone at the same marina you plan to dock your boat at, then you will need the services of a marine transport company to help you get it there.

The size of your boat may matter for a few companies, who may not be able to handle really big vessels. However, for others, they may take anything from tiny jet skis, even if those are not actually boats, to luxury yachts of any length or width. It just requires trailers large enough to withstand the load.

The distance usually does not matter for the larger companies as well. While some will only do local or intrastate moves, many others will allow you to move the boat across an entire ocean to a completely different continent if need be. If you need repairs done on the vessel, they can take it to the shop then deliver it back to its slip as soon as the work is finished.

To do this requires a lot of specialized equipment, and a crew that knows how to operate that equipment. For example, larger boats may require a hydraulic trailer, which is quite expensive and massive. You have to be well trained to operate it, so this is not something you want to try to do on your own. A crane or hoist may also be used, which are equally as complex to buy and use as a hydraulic trailer.

Even if you did have a hydraulic lift, there is much more to transportation that just getting it on the trailer. For example, you will also have to make sure the weight is balanced so that it stays stable, or else you risk serious damage.

There is no doubt that each step of preparing for the move is important and can be costly or catastrophic if they are done improperly. That is why you should check that the movers are a solid and experienced company with a good reputation. They should also have liability coverage for land and sea of at least a million dollars, or whatever the cost of your boat is at a bare minimum to cover both yourself and their business in case the unthinkable happens.

The cost of the move will depends on the distance of the transport and the weight and size of your boat. You can call or write for an estimate, but be ready with plenty of information. They will need to know the maker and model of the boat, the length, weight and possibly other info as well before a good estimate can be made.

When you are done researching and found a reputable company within your budget who can handle your needs, you can sign a contract. That contract should include a timeline and schedule for delivery or arrival of the boat so everyone knows what to expect.




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