Packing and shipping a jet ski can be daunting for those new to shipping large and heavy items. The process of packing and shipping your jet ski can initially seem overwhelming.
However, as with any process, the more prepared you are, the easier it will be. With these tips and tricks, we'll reduce the stress of sending your jet ski cross-country or abroad.
So let's dive into how to wrap and ship your jet ski safely and appropriately.
Step 1: Selecting A Trustworthy Agency
When selecting a transportation firm, you should ensure that it is insured and certified. You must also ensure that they possess extensive expertise in transporting watercraft.
Most reputable water transport companies will have information about their services on their website. You can use this information to determine if the company is a good fit for you and your jet ski.
You will notice some key differences if you call a few watercraft shipping companies. Take note of how the employees at each shipping company treat you. Good customer service is a great sign.
However, the best way to determine if a shipping company is reputable is to speak with its current customers. There are many online forums and message boards where individuals discuss their shipping experiences.
By seeing prior customers' individual experiences, you can better understand which delivery firms are reputable and credible.
Step 2: Determine Which Type of Shipping Is Best For You
When shipping your watercraft, there are a few different options to choose from. Your choice of shipping method will depend on a few variables, including your budget and the destination of your jet ski.
Air transport is the most costly mode of transport. If your jet ski is going via air, it will likely need to be crated and shrink-wrapped. However, air shipping is best for boats going long distances.
If your jet ski is going via ground transportation, you will have many options. You can choose between trucking and rail services.
Depending on the distance that your jet ski is traveling, you will likely use a combination of both ground and air transportation. You might also have the option to ship your jet ski within a container.
Step 3: Acquiring The Right Equipment & Supplies
When it comes to packing your watercraft, you want to be sure you have everything you need. You don't want to show up at the shipping facility without the necessary packing materials and supplies. This will only cause additional stress and make the process take longer.
The first thing you should do is call the shipping company and ask what they prefer you use. You don't want to show up with materials they don't accept.
Most shipping companies will have a packing list that you can print off. You can use this packing list to determine what you will need.
Step 4: Wrapping Your Jet Ski
When wrapping your jet ski, you want to be sure that you do so with care. You must also ensure that you use materials that will safeguard your jet ski.
The best way to do this is to use a heavy-duty wrapping cloth and a wooden skid. The wrapping cloth should be thick and durable. It should be sufficient to move and pack the jet ski numerous times.
You should ensure that the fabric is wrapped tightly around the jet ski, so it's not loose or wrinkled. The wooden skid should be wide enough to cover the jet ski and the bound materials. Finally, the skid should be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of your jet ski.
If shipping multiple jet skis, you should wrap each one with care. Avoid stacking the wrapped jet skis on top of each other.
Step 5: Packing The Hull and Propeller
When packing your jet ski hull, make sure to put it in a thick cardboard box. You can place the hull on top of a layer of cardboard, followed by more cardboard. This will provide support and protect the hull from getting wrinkled or dented.
Next, the propeller of your jet ski should be wrapped in a thick towel. The towel should be wrapped tightly around the propeller, so it doesn't come loose.
You should also ensure that the towel is surrounded by the propeller's sides so it doesn't move around. When packing the hull and the propeller, you should put them in the same cardboard box. This will prevent the propeller from puncturing the hull.
Step 6: Packing Your Accessories
When packing your boat accessories, you will want to ensure that they are separated from the hull and the propeller. The best way to do this is by stacking them on a thick towel.
Once you have your accessories on top of the towel, you should wrap the towel around the items. This will minimize goods from slipping and becoming damaged.
Next, you can put your accessories in the same cardboard box as the hull and propeller. Just make sure that they are on top of a towel. This will prevent the hull and propeller from damaging your accessories.
Step 7: Packing Your Engine & Exhaust
You will want to put the engine and exhaust of your jet ski in a thick cardboard box. Additionally, you can drape a hefty cloth on the machine. This will protect the engine from getting scratched or dented.
Furthermore, you must ensure that the fabric covers the engine and exhaust properly. The two items should be in a separate cardboard box from the hull and propeller.
This will prevent the engine and exhaust from getting damaged or damaging your other jet ski parts. All parts should be on a thick towel or material inside their respective boxes.
Enclosed Jet Ski Transport Service
What happens when you want to move your jet ski internationally? You might find it difficult to do without a lot of logistical hassle.
For example, shipping containers are usually too big for one or two small jet skis. And most airlines don't allow personal items larger than 10x10x5 inches. So how are you meant to ship your jet ski?
Some businesses provide encased jet ski transportation services. These businesses handle everything, from packing and unpacking to clearance of goods. They even offer insurance coverage for your jet ski.
Conclusion
When shipping your jet ski, the most important thing you can do is properly pack it and its parts. If the items inside your cardboard boxes are not properly protected, they will get damaged.
Ensure the items inside the cardboard box are secure and protected from shifting around. Then be sure to follow proper packing protocol for your jet ski body using a wooden skid and thick material wrap.
If these steps are followed, and you find a reputable shipping company, you will have nothing to worry about. Your jet ski will arrive at its destination without any damage.
If you are uncertain about packing your jet ski yourself and need assistance, don't hesitate to contact us. We can help you with all the ins and outs of safe transit for your jet ski, from packaging to insurance and delivery.
Additionally, if you are concerned that your information might be compromised, we encourage you to read our privacy policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are many different sizes of trailers out there, ranging from small travel trailers to large semi-trucks. However, if you plan on transporting your jet skis internationally, you want to find a trailer just big enough to fit the number of jet skis you'll be carrying.
You want to buy a trailer that is long enough and wide enough to fit your jet ski on it. The trailer must also be strong enough to carry the weight of the jet ski. Some trailers come with a winch to help with loading and unloading your jet ski. And you should also consider increasing the payload of the trailer you choose if you are transporting multiple jet skis at a time.
You'll want to insure your jet skis while they're being transported. There are many companies offering coverage, including Allstate, Travel Guard, Liberty Mutual, and AAA. To determine how much protection you have, ensure that you thoroughly review each policy.