Bonded and Insured Boat Transportation Company
Bonded and Insured

FAQs

Does the driver prep boats for transport?

No. Transporters are professional drivers not boat preppers. Prep for transport needs to be handled by a professional or you if you are experienced in prepping your vessel for transport. Additional information can be found on our site. 

 

Does the driver secure the boat to the trailer?

Yes, this is a must per DOT requirements and for the protection of the boat and the driver’s equipment as well as others on the highway. Additional information can be found on our site. 

Will the driver check if the boat is secured to its own trailer properly?

Yes, the driver will inspect the boat and trailer for transport. If corrections need to be made you will be notified. See our site for tips on preparing your boat and trailer. 

Do I need to have insurance on the boat and/or boat and trailer?

Yes, the second before and after your boat is loaded or unloaded the transporters insurance is not in effect. So have proper coverage to protect your boat.

Can I ride along with the driver?

No. Most drivers “live” in their trucks while on the road. You can follow along, just remember drivers may not be able to go the same route you would. Drivers often stay with the truck and boat at truck stops.

Can I be the escort for my oversize boat?

No. DOT requirements prohibit this. Proper certification and insurance is required to be a pilot for oversize cargo. As well as there are certain types of vehicles that do not meet requirements

How long does it usually take for the boat to be delivered?

This depends on size, where the boat is, and whether it is a single driver or a team. The boat can move anywhere from 400-1,200 miles a day depending on size and your drivers need for proper “off duty time”.

Can you load my boat at a ramp?

In most cases, No. The risk of damaging many types of boats is just too great. Commercial style transport trailers are set up at the time of loading for each individual vessel.

Can you unload my boat at a ramp?

Yes we can, however, we prefer loading and unloading by machine. Keep in mind the risk of damaging the boat is more likely without machine unloading.

Does my boat need permits or escorts?

If the boat is oversize or overweight it will need permits. If it is over 8.5’ wide and over 13.5’ in height it will require a permit in each state the boat travels through. Escort requirements vary from state to state depending on vessels over 12’ width and 14’ tall. See additional information at www.boattransportpros.com/yacht-transport

 

For my boat on its own trailer, do I need a spare tire? Brakes? Lights?

Yes, it should have spare and working lights. If the trailer was designed with brakes, they should work. See more.

How do I tell how old the tires are on my trailers?

The date of manufacture is the last four digits of the “DOT” code or serial # on the tire.

Once I sign my Transport Agreement and pay the initial payment when will my boat be picked up? Generally, boats are picked up within 5-14 days depending on location, size of the vessel, and your particular needs. 

See more.

What items do I need to secure on my boat for transport?

Anything that could be damaged if left unsecured or loose on the boat including but not limited to covers, anchors, electronics, cushions, etc.

See more.

Do the props need to come off?

We recommend it. This avoids damage to the props at loading and unloading. Damage can be costly and a huge inconvenience for you if bumped or dinged in anyway.

Does the anchor need to come off?

We recommend it. During transport, you do not want the anchor coming loose and damaging your boat, the trailer and the anchor itself.

Is there a check list to allow me to prep my own boat?

Yes, check out our website for information on how to prep your own vessel or insure your agent handles all for you. There is a list for powerboats and sailboats. 

 

Should the driver have a key to my boat or access to the interior of my boat?

If there is no reason for the driver to have access to the interior, no. We prefer that your valuables including the key be in your possession if possible.

Do sailboat transport trailers have a mast rack?

Yes, on larger boats almost always the mast will ride in a rack. Smaller sailboat transports it is sometimes required the mast be secured on top of the boat due to legal width requirements

What does it cost per mile to transport my boat?

Rates start at about $1 a mile and go up, depending on where it is and it is going, as well as the size and weight of your vessel. You can get your boats individual cost to ship by going to our Quote Request.

 

Are there fuel surcharges for my boat transport?

No, our quotes are all inclusive. They are based upon the specifications that you provide.

What other fees are there other than the initial transport cost?

No, our quotes are all inclusive. They are based upon the specifications that you provide.

Can I pay with a credit card for my boat transport?

Yes. We accept, Credit Cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, Cash certified checks and Wire transfers.

May I pay by personal check for my boat transport?

Yes, providing there is at least two weeks prior to your boat being ready to transport and agreed upon in advance.

Will the driver stay with my boat during the entire transport?

Your driver will be with your boat most of the time. Most drivers sleep in their trucks and leave their equipment and the boat to go into rest areas, truck and fuel stops.

Do I need to make arrangements for pickup and delivery of my boat?

Boat owners should take care of any payments required for maintenance, loading or unloading with the yard or marina, then provide us a contact person at both locations and we will handle the rest