Are you confused about when to book cross-country boat transportation services? It’s true that early planning will not only help you guarantee the availability of the service according to your boat moving requirements but also save you from last-minute chaos, such as delays or even cancellations.
Here’s a quick guide so that you can schedule your boat transportation without any doubts or confusion:
Spring/Summer Move
These months are the busiest, especially for boat transportation services, because many boat owners prepare for the boating season. If you book at least six to eight weeks in advance, you can enjoy better transportation facilities and a flexible schedule tailored to your requirements.
Off-Season Move
The fall and winter months are considered off-season months in which you’ll see a lower demand for boat moving services. If you plan to move your boat cross-country during this season, you can easily find reputable boat moving companies offering professional and affordable boat moving services. The ideal time to book during this season is three to four weeks in advance, depending on your location.
International or Cross-Border Transport
Transporting a boat across borders with Set Sailboat Transport or other providers adds significant complexity due to customs clearance, international shipping laws, import/export regulations, and required documentation. Each country may have different entry requirements, taxes, or inspection processes that can take time to fulfill.
To avoid delays and ensure everything goes smoothly, it’s strongly recommended to book at least 8 weeks in advance. This gives your boat transportation service some time to coordinate with the necessary agencies and secure all approvals.
Moving your boat with cross-country boat transportation services involves various complex requirements, including adherence to international shipping laws, import/export rules, customs clearance, and the required documentation. Every country will have different inspection procedures,
Last-minute Move
If you haven’t booked your boat transporter yet, you can still book one to two weeks in advance, but you should keep in mind that you may have to pay additional costs and have limited facilities.
For Large or Oversized Boats
Boats that exceed the standard weight and height regulations require special permits, routing, and proper handling. If you book six to 10 weeks ahead, your selected boat moving company will have enough time to prepare according to your requirements to ensure you’re not missing out on anything.
Some Tips for a Seamless Transportation Experience
You can follow these common practices to have a smooth cross-country transport experience.
- Remove any personal belongings from your boat before the pickup. Also, secure any lost items onboard.
- Remember to disconnect the batteries and drain the fluids even if your transporter forgets to mention this.
- Ensure that you confirm the loading and unloading marina details well before the transit.
- Make sure to take photos of your boat’s condition as proof in case you encounter disputes or mishandling during transport.
What can You Expect from Boat Moving Companies?
Moving your boat with professional boat transportation services can be highly beneficial in all terms. They will handle the logistics, from planning the route to ensuring you’re not left behind, with all legal and transportation requirements. Even if you don’t need to handle anything, it’s still wise if you remember what your service terms will include and what’s not included.
Transportation Coordination (usually included in the service)
It will include procedures such as securing permits and scheduling escort vehicles as necessary. Apart from this, your transport provider will ensure that they maintain transparent and consistent communication throughout the haul process.
Boat cleaning (not included in the service)
Almost all the transportation companies do not include boat cleaning as part of their service. It’s true that your boat will gather dirt, dust, and debris due to changing road and weather conditions. Although companies do not provide boat cleaning services, you can still get that arranged at the receiving marina.
Insurance coverage options
You may need additional cargo insurance, especially when you have larger or high-value vessels. Make sure to learn about whether you need the insurance coverage with your transport provider.
The Cost Considerations
The most common question to pop up in your mind when booking the cross-country boat transportation services is “How much does it cost?” Well, the prices can range from $5.00 to $16.00 per mile and can fluctuate due to these factors:
● Boat weight and size
Larger vessels will often require special bucket trucks, escorts, or special trailers for hauling.
● Special requirements
Your oversized boats may need pilot cars or police escorts, so ensure that you get everything confirmed and planned before your transport journey begins.
Here’s a quick tip: The best way is to get a detailed price quote from more than one boat moving companies so that you can compare the prices and pick a reliable and affordable option. You should also remember that you might get the cheapest price to save on your budget, but it can lead to costly circumstances, such as mishandling or damage.
Do Not Wait To Book Until The Last Minute
Booking cross-country transportation services earlier is now essential, apart from being a wise decision, when you consider the factors that can negatively impact your transit’s timelines. You can stay relaxed that your transporter will handle everything, from permits to route planning, along with timely delivery. If you find a reliable option among hundreds of boat moving companies, you’ll come to know that many reliable boat transportation services are well aware of the complexities associated with long-distance hauls. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that certain factors, such as weather changes, are beyond your control, and planning can help you avoid these situations.
