The question of how to measure the beam of a boat becomes highly essential when you are preparing for a vessel transport. The beam width at the boat’s widest point affects everything from trailer fit to transport permits. And believe us, it is not something that you can leave to guesswork.
To understand how you can accurately measure a beam, follow our step-by-step guide and also get a few insights from our more than 8 years of experience. But before that, understand why beam measurement matters.
Why Beam Measurement Matters?
The beam is the widest point of a boat’s hull, which gets measured from side to side, port to starboard. Here, precision matters a lot. The beam tells the stability level and feel on water, along with reflecting what kind of trailer or carrier can handle it.
Step-by-Step Beam Measurement Guide
Step 1 - Identify the Widest Point
The first step in learning how to measure the beam of a boat is finding that exact spot where the hull is at its widest. It usually is somewhere around the middle. However, some modern designs shift the widest point slightly forward according to the design requirement. For better understanding, you can check the manufacturer’s specifications.
Pro Tip: If your boat includes rub rails or fender attachments, do count them in your measurement because they are added in transport dimensions.
Step 2 - Set Up for Accuracy
After you spot the widest point, use a long tape measure while the boat is sitting level on a trailer or lift. Then, stretch the tape from the port (left) side to the starboard (right) side and record the measurement. If you have noted it in inches, convert it into feet because it is the required standard for transport paperwork.
Note: Considering a small boat transport service is ideal if your boat is not big in size, because it allows you to get a flexible schedule and cost-efficient hauling.
Step 3 - Note the Waterline Beam (Optional)
The waterline beam is the width of the hull at the point where it meets the water’s surface. It’s often narrower than the overall beam and becomes useful when you want to know about stability and docking calculations.
Step 4 - Record and Double-Check
Once you get the number, note it down and even photograph it if possible to make it your visual proof for the transport team or marina crew. Also, the Coast Guard’s safety report reinforces the need for thorough documentation and pre-move checks to reduce handling errors during transport.
Considering all these details when it comes to how to measure the beam of a boat is important and sets you up for hassle-free transport.
When the Beam Matters Most?
When it comes to boat delivery by land, your beam size determines what trailer you will need, along with the requirement of pilot cars or even police escorts in some states. For example:
- Boats under 8’6” wide can often move without special permits.
- Anything wider usually needs an oversize permit.
- Once you cross 12 feet, you typically face route restrictions and travel-hour limitations.
For those comparing options, a reliable boat trailer service can ensure the right equipment and safe, compliant transport across the state.
Common Mistakes When Measuring a Boat’s Beam
Here are a few mistakes people often make while measuring the beam:
- Measuring above the gunwales
- Ignoring trim tabs or outboards
- Skipping double-checks
Accuracy is key when it comes to a question like, “How to measure the beam of a boat?” And since transport costs range from $5.00 to $16.00 per mile, precise measurement becomes more crucial.
Don’t Ignore Post-Transport Cleaning
Most people overlook cleaning during long hauls, but it is essential because boats catch dirt, bugs, and road dust during transit, which require cleaning. And you need to know that transportation companies don’t handle cleaning, and it is a job that is done by marinas at either end.
We always recommend scheduling a wash or detail at the receiving marina after arrival so that your vessel looks as good as it did when it left. Also, it is important to note that sailboat transport services are only responsible for managing your vessel delivery, not cleaning.
Quick Recap of How to Measure the Beam of a Boat
Here is a summary of what we discussed above:
- Identify the widest point of your boat’s hull.
- Use a flexible tape measure across from port to starboard.
- Record the exact measurement.
- Consider the waterline beam.
- Double-check, photograph, and communicate it to your transport provider.