How to Convey a Vessel: An All-Encompassing Manual for Boat Proprietors
Conveying a vessel can be an intimidating undertaking, whether you're purchasing a new craft, vending an old one, or simply need to relocate your boat from one spot to another. Discovering a reliable boat transport company that fulfills all your requirements can be difficult. However, with Shiply, you can uncover & compare trustworthy boat movers in just a few clicks, often with quotes up to 75% less than standard rates. Before you commence, it's crucial to ascertain exactly what service you necessitate. This guide will assist you in navigating the process of transporting your boat.
Elements Influencing the Expense of Boat Transport
The expense of boat transport can differ greatly depending on several elements. On average, short distance transport can cost between $150 to $300, while longer haul journeys can range from $600 to $1,000. Some of the key factors that impact the cost of boat transportation include:
1. Distance: The distance your boat needs to be transported significantly influences the price. Domestic transport within the US is typically cheaper than international travel, as it usually involves inland transportation on a trailer. International boat transport can be more expensive, with options such as Roll-on/Roll-off (RO/RO), enclosed containers, flat racks, and submersion.
2. Boat Size: The size of your boat can also affect the cost of transportation. Standard-sized boats can be transported internationally using enclosed containers, while larger boats may require alternative methods. The size of the boat can also limit the routes available for road transport.
3. Trailer: Whether you have your own boat trailer or need the boat movers to provide one can impact the overall cost of transportation.
4. Pickup and Delivery Locations: The accessibility of your pickup and delivery locations can affect pricing. Remote areas may incur extra costs due to the additional miles required for pickup.
5. Time of Year: Seasonality can also influence pricing, as ice, wind, and snow can alter road conditions and available transportation routes.
Gauging Your Boat for Precise Quotes
To receive accurate quotes from potential boat movers, it's essential to provide the correct dimensions of your boat. While manufacturers usually provide these details, it's recommended to double-check the measurements yourself to avoid any issues on the day of transport. Here's a brief overview of the key measurements:
1. Overall Length: Measured from the very end of the bow to the middle of the stern.
2. Overall Height: Measured from the highest (non-removable) point of the boat to the bottom of the keel.
3. Beam: The overall width of the boat, measured from the two widest points.
A 'standard' boat is considered to be approximately 40' long, 7'10" high, and 7'8" wide. Boats exceeding these dimensions may require a special permit for transport.
Utilizing Shiply to Locate Boat Transport Companies
Shiply streamlines the process of finding reliable boat transport companies. By providing the make and measurements of your boat, along with the pickup and drop-off locations, boat moving companies will send personalized quotes directly to your inbox. The more information you provide, the more accurate the quotes will be, allowing you to easily compare your options.
Shiply's feedback and review system enables you to view ratings & feedback for any boat mover who quotes you, ensuring you can trust the reliability of the company. You can also communicate with the boat movers within the Shiply platform to discuss details such as trailers and accessibility.
An added advantage of using Shiply is that drivers are often already making the journeys and seeking additional loads. This not only benefits the environment but can also result in savings of up to 75% compared to standard rates.
Readying Your Boat for Shipping
Once you've selected a boat mover from the quotes received, it's time to prepare your boat for transport. Here are some essential steps to follow:
1. Documents: If your boat is being sold or traveling abroad, ensure you have all the necessary documents readily available to avoid any last-minute issues.
2. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean your boat before transport. This allows you to remove personal belongings and expensive electronic equipment, and assess the condition of your boat prior to pickup. Secure any loose items that will remain on the boat, such as lifejackets, and disconnect the battery and tidy the cables.
3. Empty Liquids: Empty the bilge, refuse stores, and most of the fuel before pickup. Disconnect the fuel tanks to make the boat lighter for transport and prevent potential leaks during transit.
4. Remove Sails: If you're transporting a sailboat, remove all winches and rigging from the mast.
5. Photographic Evidence: Document the condition of your vessel with time-stamped photographs before pickup. This will serve as evidence of its prior condition should any damages occur during transportation.
Post-Delivery Checklist
After your boat has been transported to its destination, there are a few steps you can take to ensure everything is in order:
1. Check Vital Signs: Verify that the boat's engines and any electronic equipment left on the vessel are functioning as expected.
2. Exterior Condition: Compare the exterior condition of the boat upon arrival to the photos taken before pickup. This will help you identify any damages that may have occurred during transit, allowing you to raise the issue with the boat transport company.
Once the boat transport is complete, we encourage you to leave feedback and a rating for your chosen boat mover on Shiply. This helps future users browse services with confidence and provides valuable insights to the mover regarding their level of service.
Boat Transport in Lawrence, Massachusetts
Lawrence, Massachusetts, is a popular location for boat owners to transport their vessels to and from. Situated along the Merrimack River, Lawrence offers easy access to waterways and boating opportunities. Many people choose to move their boats to Lawrence for storage during the off-season or to enjoy the scenic river views and recreational activities in the area.
When transporting a boat to or from Lawrence, it's essential to consider the specific requirements of the area. Local boat transport companies are well-versed in navigating the roads and waterways around Lawrence, ensuring your boat arrives safely at its destination. Whether you're moving your boat for personal use or as part of a sale, Lawrence provides a convenient and attractive location for boat enthusiasts.
By following this comprehensive guide and utilizing the services of Shiply, you can streamline the process of transporting your boat, whether it's to Lawrence or any other destination. With careful planning, preparation, and the right boat transport company, you can ensure your vessel reaches its new home safely and efficiently.