Boat Shipping
It can be challenging to ship a boat from one state or country to another. Fortunately, the services of expert boat transporters will ensure that your boat is transported safely and securely with the proper equipment and knowledge.
A-1 Auto Transport has transported boats between the east and west coasts or internationally for over a decade. Using our expertise, we guarantee you the highest quality shipping service.
Types of Kentucky Boat Transport Services
As a prominent boat transport company, we provide boat transport services between Kentucky and the rest of the country.
When shipping boats to or from Kentucky, you must follow several DOT regulations, including:
- State permits are required for boats wider than 8'6".
- Two-lane roads require two escorts for loads over 12' wide. Two escorts are needed for loads over 14' wide on four-lane highways.
- A height pole is required for loads over 15'.
Boat transport
Our company transports boats, ships, and other watercraft. Furthermore, we offer shrink wrapping, roll-on and roll-off, overland transportation, international yacht transportation, and full-service moving.
Powerboat shipping
If you consider the small details, you can ship your powerboat smoothly. You must prepare your powerboat before pickup because you are more familiar with your powerboat. We can handle the other details, but you must prepare your powerboat before pickup.
It is essential to keep your vessel's bottom clean. Some states restrict the movement of organisms and plants, so you must remove grass and living organisms.
Sailboat Transport
Shipments of sailboats require specialized knowledge, so only professionals should handle them. Once your sailboat has been hauled out, you must remove all lights, winches, wind indicators, and rigging. You do not need to attach your mast to the boat when you are transporting your boat on a trailer.
With our experience moving sailboats, you won't have to worry about their safety.
Yacht shipping
Yachts are typically larger than 14' wide and 14' tall and weigh 40,000 pounds or more. The process of transporting yachts differs slightly from that of transporting smaller boats.
You can rest assured that we can handle the shipping of your yacht with our expertise in shipping oversized boats.
Small boat transport
Small boats can be transported on their own trailer, over land, on their bottom, or on a yacht transport ship.
International Boat Shipping
The cost of shipping a boat or yacht abroad is higher. The process is more rigorous than sending it within the country. It is necessary to gather all the documentation required to clear customs.
Our company's customs experts can help you with this process.
Container Boat Shipping
It is also possible to ship your boat overseas as freight on a cargo ship.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Boat to or from Kentucky?
To calculate boat shipping rates to or from Kentucky, consider the following factors:
- Distance and the type of miles, such as overland, on the keel, or waterborne, influence shipping costs.
- Season - Shipping costs increase in summer when many people transport their boats. Seasons at the origin and destination ports may differ, especially for international transport, affecting shipping times.
- Destination - Extra charges may apply at some ports.
- Sizes have a significant effect on shipping costs. Costs are influenced by beam size, length, and weight.
Get a FREE quote by filling out the form at the top of this page.
How to Prepare a Boat for Shipping
You should prepare your boat thoroughly before turning it over to the shipping company to avoid damage during shipping. In most cases, companies will ship your boat as it is, so they are not responsible for damage caused by improper preparation. Preparation requires no technical expertise or experience.
The process is outlined below for your convenience.
- Batteries, electronic components, and alarms should be disconnected and secured.
- You can coat your wooden boat with linseed oil to prevent it from drying out, but it may cause dirt to accumulate on the road.
- Remove and store loose items, including propellers, anchors, flag masts, antennas, electronics, and valuables.
- Lock the cabinets and cabins, and keep the key. Secure all windows, doors, and hatches.
- Empty all tanks. Remove water and fuel, and also the hull's drain plugs. Pumps, water systems, and air conditioners should be drained of all fluids.
- Take the anchors off the deck.
- Take accurate measurements of your boat. Check the information on how to measure your boat here.
You should use A-1 Auto Transport to ship your boat. Call 1-888-230-9116 to make a booking or request your boat shipping quote. Visit our website for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Boating may sound like a good plan, but boat shipment is necessary. The boat shipment is rather stressful. However, it could be less hassle if your employer is understanding and willing to work with you. You must know your budget and how much the company is asking for the delivery. By doing so, you can gather the entire amount needed and help with the procedure.
The distance may significantly influence how much your final price changes. The amount of fuel used is another factor to observe. Fuel costs may impact your total cost at that time of the year. If you ship your boat when fuel costs are skyrocketing, the shipment may have cost more than it should have. Be mindful of the factors which may benefit you in the long run.
It may not be easy to complete the delivery in a shorter time if the drop-off location is far apart. Distance is the prime factor when moving companies talk about how long deliveries would take. Along with that, you must consider your boat's weight. Your boat will take longer to transport if it is heavier and larger. The driver will be moving at a slower speed. All of this is done to guarantee a secure and safe delivery.
Even if the driver goes faster, he can encounter adverse weather conditions. It may cause your delivery to be delayed. This could involve thunderstorms, heat waves, or heavy rain. The firm will put the safety of your ship's delivery ahead of schedule. These natural hazards will cause the driver to slow the speed of the transporting vehicle. The customer can accept a late delivery but not a damaged one.
Giving away your favorite boat might seem doable, but it's much harder than expected. You must pick a reputable, responsible business. Their handling ensures that your vehicle won't suffer any damage. However, there are several actions you can perform for the security of your boat.
It would be better if you inspected the boat thoroughly. Place tape on any doors, cabinets, or furniture in one location. Additionally, you need to check the gas tank to prevent leaks. If it is full, it'll create greater risk and make your equipment heavier. You may also purchase an alarm system to notify the business and you.
You must be careful when you select a company. Choose a business that offers an insurance policy. This policy will protect you against any harm to your vehicle. Sign this insurance policy as soon as you find it reasonable. This paper will demonstrate that the company will take responsibility in the event of destruction. This will put you in a difficult situation. So be wise and purchase insurance coverage before placing the order.