Moving a pedal boat might look easy. But it can get damaged or become unsafe on the road if you don’t prepare for it properly.
In this guide, we will show you how to transport a pedal boat without worrying about it. We have been helping people with boat transport nationwide for over 8 years, so we know how to make your move simple.
Let’s go over the steps that you can follow to make the process easy.
1. Plan and Prepare Before You Move
A little preparation goes a long way before you start loading your pedal boat:
- Measure and weigh your pedal boat, including any accessories. You will need the length, width, and approximate dry weight.
- Take out seats, paddles, life vests, cushions, and any detachable parts. Loose gear can shift and damage the boat or scratch surfaces.
- Drain all water because even a little water adds extra weight and can shift during transport.
- Check the hull. Look for cracks, weak spots, or old repairs. Note them, and fix anything that needs repair before moving.
- Check rules and limits. You might need a permit because some roads have height or width restrictions.
2. Choose the Right Equipment
One of the first things you need to decide when moving your pedal boat is which equipment to use.
You need a trailer. This is usually the easiest option if your boat fits on a trailer you already have. Make sure the trailer can handle your boat’s weight and size.
A dolly or trolley can help you roll the boat into place for short moves, like from storage to a ramp. This is not meant for highway trips.
You may require a professional hauler or specialized transport. Hiring a boat transport company is a great choice if the trip is long or complicated. With so many years of knowledge and experience, Set Sail Boat Transport makes sure that your boat's move always remains reliable and secure.
3. Loading the Boat Correctly
This is the part where mistakes can happen. Let's take a look at how to transport a pedal boat using a trailer:
- Position the trailer on level ground and securely chock the wheels.
- Align the trailer. Back it up so the supports line up with the center of your boat.
- Use rollers, PVC pipes, or a winch to gently slide or pull the boat onto the trailer. Padded bunks or rollers help reduce friction.
- Make sure you center the boat so it sits evenly from front to back and side to side.
- Stop when the bow contacts the trailer stop or bumper. Don’t push too far.
- Before you secure the boat fully, test the balance and reposition if there is a need.
4. Secure the Boat for Transit
Securing your boat properly is very important. Here’s how we do it:
- Use ratchet straps across the bow and stern instead of using rope. Tighten carefully, not too loose and not too tight.
- Avoid weak points. Don’t anchor to plastic handles or seats. These can break under pressure.
- Place padding where the straps touch the boat to stop scratches or damage.
- After strapping, gently push the boat side to side to check the movement. It should barely move.
- Tie off any slack in the straps so they don’t flap in the wind.
5. Look Over the Trailer, Vehicle, and Hitch Setup
Run a checklist before the departure:
- Check the hitch to make sure it’s locked and the safety chains are crossed under the tongue.
- Check turn signals, brake lights, and running lights.
- Look at tire pressure, lug nuts, bearings, and the frame.
- Make sure your towing vehicle can bear the weight of the trailer and boat.
