Boat Shipping Companies in the USA

Top 5 Boat Shipping Companies in the USA

Are you looking to transport your boat or Yacht but don't know where to Contact? You can move your boat nationwide with the help of any boat shipping company. Rapid Auto Shipping is one of the best shipping service providers in the USA, offering diverse transport services. This company provides a reliable and secure boat shipping solution with the help of highly skilled professionals. They ensure your boat is handled with the utmost care and is securely delivered to your destination. 

It can be difficult to navigate this maze without proper guidance. So, let’s dive in and learn everything that one must know about boat transportation!

Best 5 Boat Shipping Companies Options

When transporting your boat, finding the trusted boat transport company is crucial. Opting for a reliable boat transport company gives you peace of mind that your boat will arrive safely at your destination. There are a lot of boat shipping companies in the USA, along with Rapid Auto Shipping, which also provides efficient and secure boat transportation. Here is the overview of the top 5 boat shipping companies, including Rapid Auto Shipping. 

1. Rapid Auto Shipping - Your Trusted Auto Shipping Partner 

Rapid Auto Shipping is a reputed and best boat transport company in the United States, offering reliable and cost-effective boat shipping services. Rapid Auto Shipping offers simple and hassle-free booking, competitive pricing, and superior customer service through its vast network of professional and seasoned boat transporters.

Whether you need to transport your boat across the country or just a few miles away, Rapid Auto Shipping excels in providing reliable, cost-effective transport solutions for boats of all sizes across the U.S. Their dedicated team handles everything from pickup to delivery with the utmost care, offering door-to-door service and real-time tracking.

Services: Boat transport service across the USA, door to door auto transport, open and enclosed transport, real-time tracking, and full insurance coverage.

2. Boat Movers - Getting Your Boat There Safely 

Boat Movers provides domestic boat transport and is known for its expert handling and dedication to delivering boats securely and on time. They offer flexible solutions for boats of all sizes, from small boats to large yachts, using both open and enclosed transport.

Services: Nationwide boat transport, open and enclosed trailers, and customized shipping solutions.

3. United Yacht Transport - Leader in North American Yacht Transport

United Yacht Transport is a specialized boat shipping company that provides domestic and international boat transport services. The company has a fleet of cargo ships that convey sailboats, yachts, powerboats, and catamarans, among others.

Services: International yacht transport, cradle transport for large vessels, containerized shipping, and door-to-door delivery, with an emphasis on safety and timely arrivals.

4. Interwest Transportation - Your 3PL Partner

InterWest is a full-service boat shipping company that transports vessels of all sizes, both within the U.S. and internationally. The company employs a team of experienced drivers and utilizes cutting-edge equipment to transport your watercraft safely. 

Services: InterWest offers door-to-door delivery, boat tracking, and insurance coverage to give you peace of mind during boat transport.

5. Peters and May - Effortless Global Shipping

Peters & May is known for its comprehensive, secure boat transport services. Whether you’re moving a small recreational boat or a large yacht, they ensure your boat arrives safely.

Services: Worldwide boat and yacht transport, enclosed shipping for large or high-value vessels, and a strong focus on customer satisfaction and protection.

How Do Boat Shipping Companies Operate?

Shipping your boat involves four simple steps: booking, pickup, delivery, and inspection. By following these simple steps, boat shipping companies ensure a smooth, safe, and efficient experience, whether your boat is moving across the country or worldwide.

Step 1: Get The Shipping Quote and Schedule The Shipment

Step 2: Get Your Boat Picked Up

Step 3: Track Your Boat

Step 4: Get Your Boat Delivered

What Are The Different Kinds Of Boat Transportation? 

Boat transportation involves various methods depending on the type of boat, distance, and specific requirements of the customer. Here’s a list of the different kinds of boat transportation:

Overland Boat Transport 

Overland transport is commonly used to transport boats across the nation. It is a popular option for smaller boats, yachts, powerboats, and sailboats. There are three types of trailer options in overland boat transport.

• Open Trailer: Your boat is transported in an open trailer. This is the most cost-effective method for transporting boats over land. It is the best for smaller boats, mid-sized yachts, and recreational watercraft.

• Enclosed Trailer: The boat is transported in an enclosed trailer, protecting it from the elements during transport. It is the best for high-value boats, luxury yachts, or boats that need extra protection from weather or road conditions.

• Flatbed Trailer: Larger boats that may not fit into trailers are often shipped on flatbed trailers. These trailers have low decks to accommodate boats of various sizes. It is the best for large yachts and sailboats with a height or weight that exceeds standard trailers.

Oversees Boat Transport 

This is often used for shipping abroad. For foreign boat transportation, the shippers load the customer's boat onto a ship to move it safely. Some companies have guides for hire who can carry a customer's boat from one harbor to another if it needs to be moved over a short distance. The oversees methods include the following: 

• Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping: Boats are driven or “rolled” onto a specialized ship with a built-in ramp. This is the best method for larger boats, yachts, and commercial vessels that need to be transported across oceans.

• Flat Rack Shipping: The boat is secured onto a flat rack and open platform and then loaded onto a container ship. It is best for large yachts or boats that are too large or fragile for RoRo shipping. It is also suitable for high-value boats.

• Containerized Shipping: Boats are set inside large shipping containers to be transported on ships. This method offers maximum protection during international shipments. This method is best suited for luxury yachts, expensive boats, and smaller boats that need maximum protection during shipping.

Air Boat Transport 

Some shipping companies can use cargo planes to get boats to their destinations. Most of the time, shipping by land or water is faster and cheaper. However, a cargo plane might be the best way to ship smaller boats or boat parts, like masts for sailboats and yachts. This method is usually used for expedited shipping or valuable boats.

How To Prepare A Vessel For Transport 

Depending on the level of service the boat shipping company provides, you may be required to prepare your vessel for transport thoroughly, or the company may do so on your behalf.

• Remove all personal items, gear, and equipment from the boat, including fishing gear, life jackets, and electronics, to prevent damage during transportation.

• Clean the boat's interior and exterior, remove all debris and equipment, document its condition, and secure all keys.

• Drain the fuel tank as recommended by the shipping company and empty all water tanks, including fresh and waste tanks, to prevent leakage and spillage.

• Remove and secure all external equipment, like radar and antennas, as companies are not liable for damage or loss.

• Lock all windows, doors, hatches, and compartments to prevent rain, theft, and damage during transit.

• Disconnect all batteries, fuel lines, electrical connections, and water hoses to prevent issues during transit, and label them for easy reinstallation.

• It’s better to take pictures of your boat before shipping, as it helps you recognize any damage after the transit. 

• Confirm with your insurance agent that your boat is fully covered during transport, including potential shipping damages.

Benefits Of Using A Yacht or Boat Shipping Companies 

Using a yacht or boat shipping company provides various valuable benefits, making the transport process of your vessel safer, more efficient, and less stressful. Here are the key advantages explained in detail:

Expertise: Boat shipping companies have professional teams to transport boats. They have the skills to handle your watercraft safely and effectively.

Convenience: Instead of handling the transportation yourself, a boat shipping company takes care of everything: scheduling, route planning, permits, and legal requirements, saving you time and effort.

Safety: Boat and yacht shipping companies use special equipment and methods to ensure your watercraft is safely transported. They also offer insurance to cover any damage during shipping.

How Much Does Transporting A Boat Or Vessel Cost?  

The cost of transporting a boat or yacht depends on some variables, including the size of the vessel, the distance it must travel, and the services required. Boat shipping costs can range from $1.25 to $15.00 per mile, depending on your boat's size and distance. Some companies may also offer discounts for multiple shipments or during the off-season.

The factors that affect the boat shipping cost include the following: 

Size and Weight: The size and weight of the boat directly affect shipping costs, with larger boats requiring more resources and resulting in higher prices. 

Shipping Distance: The boat shipping cost varies with distance, typically decreasing per mile for longer trips, but overall costs increase due to higher fuel, labor, and time expenses. 

The Route and Accessibility: Shipping costs depend on the route and location accessibility. Narrow roads or low clearances may require extra permits, adding to the cost. 

Time of Year: Boat shipping costs can rise during peak seasons, like summer, due to higher demand for services. 

Type of Transportation: Boat transport methods, such as open or closed trailers, flatbed trucks, or water-based shipping, each have pros and cons that impact the overall cost.

Additional Services: Boat relocation costs can increase with crating, storage, insurance, and customs clearance, which can be included in the shipping deal or purchased separately.

How Long Does Transporting A Boat or Vessel Take?  

The time required to ship a boat can vary depending on the size of the vessel, transportation method, shipping distance, and shipping time. Generally, boat shipping within the same country can take a few days to weeks. Ask the shipping company for an estimated delivery time. In short-distance transport, it will take 1 to 7 days, and in long-distance transport, it can take up to 7 to 14 days.

Considerations When Selecting A Boat Shipping Company  

It is crucial to hire the right boat shipping company when needed. There are characteristics to consider when selecting the top boat transportation company.

License and Registration  

The Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulate the transportation of commodities and vehicles, including boats.

A reliable boat transport company should prominently display or readily provide all the necessary DOT and FMCSA authorizations and permits for review upon request.

Insurance Coverage

To ensure the safety of your vessel during boat transfer, hiring a transporter with sufficient insurance coverage is essential. This will help protect your boat from potential risks and hazards during the journey.

Before committing to any agreement, thoroughly comprehending the payment terms, including any requirements for deposits or payment plans, is essential.

Tracking  

A reliable boat transportation company should offer timely status updates, enabling you to easily track the progress of your valuable package as it travels to its intended destination.

Payment Terms  

Understand the payment structure and any up-front fees. Ensure that the payment terms are simple and acceptable to you.

Communication  

Clear communication is essential throughout the transportation process. Ensure that you have a designated point of contact who will promptly address any inquiries or concerns.

Conclusion 

Transporting a boat can be challenging, but boat shipping companies can make the process simpler and more convenient. The companies listed above offer a variety of services to transport your watercraft to any location in the globe safely and efficiently. When selecting a company, consider the above factors: experience, reputation, services, and cost.