Preparation and knowing what to expect can have a great impact when it comes to shipping a boat cross-country. Moving your boat across the country isn’t as simple as hooking it to a trailer. It takes the right equipment, planning, and following transport rules.
At Set Sail Boat Transport, we make the process simple for you. We will share with you the costs and the factors that affect them, and we will also tell you what you need to do before the move.
Our goal is to make sure your boat reaches its new location safely and without any stress.
What Are the Costs of Shipping a Boat Cross-Country
The cost of shipping the boat usually ranges between $5.00 and $16.00 per mile. Every boat and route is different, so prices can change from one move to another. Size, weight, and distance matter the most, but there are other factors that affect the final quote, too.
Set Sail Boat Transport, an expert boat transport company, gives you a clear and complete quote. It will include everything, like permits, escorts, and insurance, so there are no complications later.
7 Factors That Affect the Cost
Are you shipping a boat cross-country? You need to understand what drives the price so it can help you make better decisions and reduce unnecessary expenses. While every shipment is different, there are many consistent factors that are most important in deciding the final cost.
Let's go over each factor in detail:
1. Boat Size and Weight
The biggest factor in the cost of shipping the boat is its size and weight. We may need special trailers, extra permits, or pilot cars to move it safely if your boat is large. Heavier boats also need stronger equipment and more fuel, which can raise the total cost.
2. Distance Traveled
It’s simple. The farther you go, the more it costs to ship the boat. Your boat covers thousands of miles when it travels cross-country. That means more fuel, tolls, and mileage fees.
3. Route Accessibility
Some marinas or pickup spots can be hard to reach with large trailers. We might need to take detours or use extra equipment to load your boat when that happens. Shipping your boat becomes quicker and smoother for both of us if your pickup and drop-off are easy to access.
4. Permits and Escorts
We may need state permits, pilot cars, or even police escorts to move it safely on highways if your boat is oversized. Each state has different rules, and these extra steps can raise the cost, especially for wide or tall boats.
5. Fuel Prices
Just like any transport service, fuel prices can affect the cost of shipping the boat. When diesel prices go up or down, your quote might change a little between the time you book and the day we move your boat.
6. Seasonal Demand
Summer and early fall are busy times for shipping the boat. Many people move their boats then, so prices can be higher. You can reduce costs and get faster delivery dates if you plan your move in the off-season, like winter or early spring.
7. Insurance Coverage
Having full insurance is important to make sure your boat stays protected during transit. You may need more coverage if your boat is high in value, which can raise the cost a little.
