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Who Transports Boats?

There are a number of services you can employ to transport your boat - choosing the type of company that is right for right for your move will depend heavily on the features and benefits they offer.

pulling a boat

Boat transportation companies specialize in moving boats on short- and long-term hauls. Since boat transportation is their primary business, boat transportation companies can often provide comprehensive service to boat owners. Standard moving companies may also offer boat transportation services - particularly in coastal states where there is more demand for boat transportation.

Prior to hiring a moving company for boat transportation, research the company through references in your boating community, or ask the boat transportation company to provide references from past customers.

Specialty Moving Companies

boat parking sign

One advantage of hiring a professional moving company is sheer size and bulk - a larger company will most likely offer the insurance options you want and be able to provide a competitive price. Additionally, if you're planning a long-distance haul, a large moving company or professional boat transportation company is more likely to be able to accommodate your needs.

"While brokers play a large role in the shipping industry, they can sometimes leave the customer hanging out to dry when a load is damaged during delivery."

Transport Brokers

Boat transport brokers work with moving and shipping companies to arrange for boat transportation on behalf of companies and individuals. Often, brokers can maneuver schedules and costs to offer individuals competitive rates for boat transportation. However, the accountability of transport brokers is significantly murkier than the many checks set in place for transport companies.

While brokers play a large role in the shipping industry, they can sometimes leave the customer hanging out to dry when a load is damaged during delivery. Most of the laws that make transport companies liable for damaged loads do not pertain to brokers, and tracking down the legally responsible party can be difficult.

Of course, this is a worst-case scenario. Many shipments run through brokers and arrive at their destinations unblemished. Brokers have resources and connections that the individual does not. Brokers can also exert influence to meet your needs - saving the time and effort you might take without the same results.

Individual Movers

tractor pulling boat

For local moves, individual movers present an excellent alternative to larger boat transportation companies. Often, the locals know best about the quirks and rules of marinas and dry docks in the area, and can assist with arranging the boat transportation process. Find out about the insurance carried by individual movers -- make sure that you don't carry liability for their injuries during your move and that the boat transportation company's insurance covers damage to your boat during a move.

Boat Transporter Certifications

All boat transport companies need to be licensed with the United States Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and, naturally, this certification should be one of the first questions you ask a possible transporter. However, each state maintains its own rules and regulations regarding transportation of oversized items, hauling regulations, and weight limits. If you are at all unsure about the legal status of your boat transportation company, your boat, or the hauling gear for your boat, check with your state's Department of Transportation, or consider these helpful links:

Next Page Knowing who transports boats is important, but if you own a large boat, you might have to hire a specialty carrier - and be aware of laws and regulations specific to bigger boats. Find out about boat transport maximum size on the next page.