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You have purchased a boat and plan to move it across state lines. That sounds great, but are you legally ready? One of the most ignored aspects of the small boat shipping process is double-checking that you have the proper permits. Without permits, chances are high that you may meet with fines or even impoundments.
In this blog, we’ll help you know everything about permits for small boat shipping and how to obtain them legally and efficiently, so you can avoid falling into the risks of getting fined.
This is one of the most common permits required for boat transportation. If your boat and the trailer are wider, taller, or longer than the legal limitations, it means they exceed the standard limitations. When you book cost-effective small boat hauling and the weight limit is exceeded, you’ll need an Oversize Load Permit.
When is the oversized load permit required?
How to Get the Oversize Load Permit?
Every state has its application process, usually through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). You can apply for an Oversize Load Permit online from the official website of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), or you can also consult with a transportation permit service.
What Considerations Do You Need to Consider?
This type of permit is generally required for commercial carriers to transport boats across state lines. However, if you hire small boat transport and trailer services, confirm in advance whether they will obtain these on your behalf or you’ll have to apply yourself.
The Trip Permits are required to allow temporary travel through states where the vehicle isn’t registered.
On the other hand, a Fuel Permit is required for fuel tax compliance when your transport vehicle exceeds the standard weight limit.
Depending on vehicle and route specifications, you may need to provide proof of these permits even if you’re not a commercial hauler investing in small boat transport and trailer services.
Many boat owners generally overlook this type of permit. You should keep in mind that your trailer must be legally registered in your home state before you cross the borders. It’s advisable to check your state DMV for inspection stickers, registration paperwork, and proper tags.
Temporary Permits: If you have an unregistered or newly purchased vehicle, you may need a temporary operating permit to tow your trailer legally across state lines.
Even though you’re not sailing the boat on the road, law enforcement can still ask for proof of ownership during transit.
The Title document indicates the legal ownership of the boat. The Registration document will ensure that your boat is recorded with your state's boating authority. If you plan to permanently move the ship to a new state, you must update your registration with the new state’s agency.
Quick tip: If you already have these documents, always carry them with you while moving your boat..
Every state in the U.S. has separate laws for small boat and trailer transport services. We have listed some of them for you:
Note: Before you begin with small boat shipping, make sure to visit the DOT or DMV websites of each state. Most websites in the United States facilitate fee calculators, guidelines according to vehicle type and size, and online permit applications.
It’s important to remember that not every boat shipment requires special permits. However, depending on the size and weight of your boat, trailer, or transport route, you might need one or more permits to remain compliant with the U.S Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations.
For instance, if the total width of your boat on the trailer exceeds 9 feet 5 inches, you will likely need an Oversize Load Permit in most states. When the weight is exceeded,
Quick Tip: Remember that rules vary from state to state. The declaration of “oversized” in one state might be standard in another. If you book cost-effective small boat hauling across multiple states, you must meet each state's requirements according to your route.
Permits are not just paperwork for small boat shipping; they ensure a legal, hassle-free, and safe transit. Staying informed about the permits can help protect your vessel according to state and federal laws and help avoid costly delays and fines.