How to Move a Vessel: A Thorough Manual
Relocating a vessel, whether you're purchasing, vending, or simply transferring it from one spot to another, can be an intimidating undertaking. Discovering a dependable boat transport firm that satisfies all your needs & aligns with your financial plan can be difficult. Luckily, Shiply simplifies the process of finding & comparing trustworthy boat movers with just a few clicks, frequently providing quotes up to 75% less than standard rates. Before you begin searching for a boat transport company, it's crucial to establish precisely what service you necessitate. This manual will assist you in navigating the process of relocating your vessel, including elements that influence pricing, how to measure your boat, & what to do before & after the move.
The expense of boat transport can differ greatly depending on several elements. On average, short-distance transport can cost between $150 & $300, while longer haul journeys can range from $600 to $1,000. Some of the key factors that impact boat transport pricing include:
1. Length: The distance your vessel needs to travel significantly affects the cost. Domestic transport within the US is typically less expensive than international travel, as it usually involves inland transportation on a trailer. For international boat transport, options include Roll-on/Roll-off (RO/RO), enclosed containers, flat racks, & submersion.
2. Vessel Size: The dimensions of your boat can influence pricing & transportation methods. Standard-sized boats can be transported internationally using enclosed containers, while larger boats may necessitate alternative methods. Boat size also determines which routes a transport company can take when traveling by road.
3. Trailer: Whether you provide your own boat trailer or require the movers to supply one can impact the overall cost.
4. Pickup & Delivery Locations: The accessibility of your pickup & delivery locations can affect pricing. Remote areas may incur extra costs due to the additional miles required for pickup.
5. Time of Year: Seasonality plays a role in pricing, as ice, wind, & snow can alter available transportation routes.
To receive precise quotes from potential boat movers, you must provide accurate measurements of your vessel. While manufacturers usually provide these dimensions, it's recommended to double-check them yourself to avoid any issues on the day of transport. Here's a quick guide on how to measure your boat:
1. Overall Length: Measure from the very end of the bow to the middle of the stern.
2. Overall Height: Measure from the highest (non-removable) point of the boat to the bottom of the keel.
3. Beam: Measure the overall width of the boat from the two widest points.
A "standard" boat is considered to be approximately 40' long, 7'10" high, & 7'8" wide. Boats exceeding these dimensions may require a special permit for transport.
Shiply streamlines the process of finding reliable boat transport companies. By entering your boat's make, measurements, pickup, & drop-off locations on the Shiply website, boat moving companies will send customized 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 & review system enables you to view ratings & feedback for each boat mover who quotes you, ensuring you choose a reliable company. You can also communicate with the movers through the platform to discuss details such as trailers & accessibility. An added benefit of using Shiply is that drivers are often already making the journeys & looking for extra loads, which can result in up to 75% savings compared to standard rates while also being environmentally friendly.
Once you've selected a boat mover, it's time to prepare your vessel for transport. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth process:
1. Documents: If your boat is being sold or traveling abroad, gather any necessary documents to avoid last-minute issues.
2. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean your boat before transport, removing personal belongings & expensive electronic equipment. Secure loose items like lifejackets, disconnect the battery, & tidy the cables. This also allows you to assess the boat's condition prior to pickup.
3. Empty Liquids: Empty the bilge, refuse stores, & most of the fuel. Disconnect the fuel tanks to make the boat lighter & prevent leaks during transit.
4. Remove Sails: For sailboats, remove all winches & rigging from the mast.
5. Photographic Evidence: Document your vessel's condition with time-stamped photographs before pickup. This serves as evidence of its prior condition in case of any damages during transport.
After your boat has been transported to its destination, follow these steps to ensure everything is in order:
1. Check Vital Signs: Verify that the boat's engines & any electronic equipment left on board are functioning properly.
2. Exterior Condition: Compare the boat's exterior condition upon arrival to the pre-pickup photos. This helps identify any damages that may have occurred during transit, allowing you to raise concerns with the boat transport company.
Once the boat transport is complete, leave feedback & a rating for your chosen boat mover on Shiply. This helps future users browse services with confidence & provides valuable insights to the mover regarding their level of service.
Richmond, Virginia, US, is a popular location for boat owners to transport their vessels to & from. Situated along the James River, Richmond offers a variety of water activities & boating opportunities. Many people choose to move their boats to Richmond for recreational purposes, such as fishing, water skiing, & cruising. The city's proximity to the Chesapeake Bay & the Atlantic Ocean also makes it an attractive destination for boating enthusiasts. Additionally, Richmond's central location on the East Coast facilitates boat transport to & from other regions of the country. With its rich history, vibrant culture, & access to water activities, it's no wonder why Richmond is a sought-after destination for boat owners looking to transport their prized possessions.