The task of getting your boat ready for shipping is an important one, and requires a great deal of attention to detail. Without planning this preparation, your vessel runs the risk of being damaged en route greatly increasing the chance of costly repairs or delays.
The first stage begins with a good cleaning of your boat, inside and outside. Not only does it look great, but it also provides a way to prevent contamination of any water bodies. Once the boat is clean, you’ll want to fasten down any loose items and make sure the boat is in good shape. These might include taking out the sails, securing the engine and repairing what needs to be done. Take photographs to document the boat’s condition before shipping, too.
The second key step is shipping paperwork — and choosing the right shipping method (whether on land or on sea). These preparations take time, but being thorough with them will not only help you meet transport regulations, but also keep your shipping costs low by eliminating additional costs caused by damage or mishandling.
So basically, the more you prepare your boat to ship, the smooth, stress free the transport will be. If you’d like to go through each part of this process in detail and with expert tips, keep reading!
Initial Preparation for Boat Shipping
This phase is the launch pad for insuring safe and efficient movement on your vessel. Essential documentation and proper measuring of your boat will save headaches in the future and allow you to proceed with confidence.
Gather Documentation
It’s a must to fill in all the paperwork before you can even think about loading your boat onto a transport vehicle. Before you actually ship the boat, do have your boat registration, insurance paperwork, and shipping documents prepared so you save time and hassle.
- Boat Registration: This document proves to be your legal owner of the vessel. However, boat registration is different in every state, so check that your state is up to date with their regulations to keep that from being a compliance issue when shipping.
- Insurance: If your boat insurance policy includes shipping and provisions for damage during shipping, make sure you verify this. It’s invaluable peace of mind if your boat is a big investment.
- Shipping Paperwork: It would include any contracts or agreements made with the shipping company. Signing anything without knowing the terms and conditions first is a no-no.
Check the Boat’s Measurements
The next step is to measure your boat accurately. By knowing this, you can plan the shipping logistics and pick the right transport method. Here’s how to do it right:
- Length: Mark the bow and mark the stern off the end where you have your outboard or any extensions.
- Width: The beam is the widest part of the boat so measure it.
- Height: This includes your boat’s structure, and any items on top of the boat such as a Bimini or radar arch. This also is important to ensure it can fit under bridges or trees when it’s being transported.
- Weight: The weight of your boat will help determine which transport method is right for you and will ensure your trailer is rated for that weight. If you’re not sure, have your boat weighed at a local truck scale.
Select the Best Transport Method
You’ve got all the paperwork and measurements, so now it’s time to pick which mode of transport you will use to bring your boat to the site. There are two options of open and enclosed transport which have their own pros and cons.
- Open Transport: This is often faster and cheaper than doing it any other way, especially if you are working on a large boat or are working against time. But your boat will be exposed to the conditions of transit and be subject to potential weather related damage. Open transport may be the way to go if you’re shipping a less valuable boat or one built to stand the test of time.
- Enclosed Transport: This gives the maximum protection from the elements and road debris, but isn’t necessary if your boat is delicate or valuable. The peace of mind that comes from having your boat protected from potential hazards is often at a premium, especially if you’re looking at a high end vessel, but enclosed transport tends to cost more.
Physical Preparation of the Boat
Once you get the documentation and transport sorted out, you are now ready to concentrate on the physical preparation of the boat. Here’s how to do that:
External and internal cleaning
First things first: thoroughly clean your boat. This not just makes it look great, but will help you check for any other existing damage before you ship.
- Exterior Cleaning: Clean the hull and topsides to remove anything dirt, algae and other residues. This inspection can save you from scratching or cracking something you may want to fix before you get it in transit.
- Interior Cleaning: Cabin and cockpit areas should be cleaned out. It’s a good way to avoid pumping things into your trunk that you didn’t want to transport and also lets you look around for anything that may have been hidden.
Inspect for Damage
Do a thorough inspection to get a detailed look at any pre-existence damage. During this process, take good quality photos. That way if you do need to make an insurance claim you’ll be able to document the condition of the boat.
- Inspect Hull and Deck: Inspect for cracks, dings, dents, or scratches. Look at the keel and in the area near the transom.
- Check Equipment: Check your equipment on board, make sure that all is in working order and there’s no damage.
Remove Loose Items
Once your boat is clean and inspected, you need to take off any loose items that could become projectiles once shipping begins.
- Interior Items: Personal belongings, electronics, and loose equipment are all included. Remove anything that could shift or become damaged in transit.
- Exterior Items: Take the antennas, radar units, propellers, anchors, any other removable parts away. These items can also be easily damaged when transported around, so it’s best to keep them with you.
Drain Water Tanks and Fuel
A big part of the preparation process is emptying fuel and water tanks.
- Empty Fuel Tank: Less weight means leaving the fuel tank almost empty to prevent leaks. In fact, some transport rules even require that a fuel tank be less than a quarter full for safety purposes.
- Drain Water Systems: Drain all the water tanks; bilge, live wells, and freshwater tanks. It helps prevent leaks and prevent water damage to things during transit. A little water left behind can create a big mess!
Secure Hatches and Windows
Secondly, seal and secure all openings. And finally, take time to do so.
- Seal Windows and Doors: During transport make sure all hatches, windows and doors are sealed shut to avoid the water coming in. If needed, use duct tape or weather stripping for additional security.
Preparing the Boat for Loading
When the shipping date gets close, there is a lot to do before loading your boat onto a transport vehicle.
Lower and Secure the Mast (for Sailboats)
Reducing the mast to shipping weight is critical if you’re shipping a sailboat as it can easily damage. Lowering the mast following the manufacturer’s instructions becomes a matter of safety. Once down, secure it to the boat so it doesn’t jump around while traveling.
Protective Wrapping and Covering
Especially for longer journeys it is important to protect your boat from the elements during transport.
- Shrink Wrapping: Shrink wrapping gives your boat extra protection from weather and road debris. This method helps to make a tight seal around the boat, and minimizes the chance the moisture will get in.
- Using Tarps: Heavy duty tarp can do for smaller. When you wrap tarps to take them to the store, make sure they don’t flap around.
Final Preparations Before Shipping
Before you deliver your boat, check that it has been in tip top condition for transport.
Ensure Proper Trailer Condition
When you’re hauling a boat on a trailer, it’s all about thorough inspection.
- Check the Tires, Brakes, and Lights: Ensure things work the way they’re supposed to. It is important to check the tire tread, as well as the brakes, the working condition of the lights.
- Adjust Trailer Fit: Make sure the boat is properly adjusted on the trailer and securely fastened. If your boat is misaligned, it will shift during transit and possibly damage itself.
Prepare the Boat for Pickup
Finally, there’s the step of getting the pickup location ready.
- Clear Access Points: Now make sure that the pickup location is of easy access for the transport vehicle. It will make transport day much more hassle free.
- Take Photos for Documentation: Take pictures of the boat from a number of angles before the transport vehicle arrives. This proof of the boat’s pre-shipping condition is important for insurance purposes later.
How uShip Simplifies Boat Transport
Transporting a boat can be a daunting task, but platforms like uShip can make it much easier.
Finding Reliable Transporters
Finding and connecting with a reputable boat shipping company is easy when you use uShip. Their platform lets you browse through a series of options that are tailored to your requirements whether you’re new to shipping or a seasoned pro.
Quotes and Transport Options Comparison
The biggest advantage of uShip is the ability to compare multiple quotes from different transporters. With this feature you can easily discover the best shipping rates and choose the most suitable transport methods your boat needs.
uShip’s User Reviews and Ratings
Last but definitely not least, make sure to look at the reviews and ratings for potential carriers on uShip. This feedback from previous customers allows us to know if the transporters are reliable and if their service quality is good enough to give you more peace of mind as you’re preparing for your boat’s journey.
In The End
Preparing your boat for shipping may seem like a tedious task, but following these steps will help you navigate the process smoothly. From gathering the right documentation to physically preparing your vessel and choosing the ideal transport method, each detail contributes to a successful shipping experience. If you’re ready to dive in further, don’t hesitate to explore more details or reach out to a professional to assist you in the process. Happy shipping!