Hiring a Boat Transport Company:
- Prioritize a company experienced with your boat type, route, and logistics over scheduling.
- A transport agreement should detail:
- Boat details.
- Pickup/delivery locations.
- Accurate boat dimensions (crucial for accurate quotes).
- Targeted schedule.
- Costs and payment terms (including a good faith deposit to secure scheduling and permits).
Driver Responsibilities:
- Refuse unsafe loads and report to the company manager.
- Ensure safe and road-ready boat loading (a key part of the job).
- Understand specific requirements for large/wide boats (e.g., escorts, height poles).
- Verify the trailer is the correct weight load and design.
- Complete a pre-departure checklist.
- Maintain awareness of:
- Loose straps/chains or items.
- Equipment maintenance (tires, brakes, etc.).
- Road/weather conditions.
- Communicate potential delays from unexpected road issues or “Acts of God” (not the company’s responsibility). Discussing these in advance can reduce stress.
Transport Process:
- On pickup day, the boat should be prepped for loading.
- The driver will:
- Inspect the boat for prior damage (and document it).
- Measure the boat if dimensions are unclear (accurate dimensions are needed for permits).
- Work with the marina to load the boat.
- The driver will contact you after loading and provide updates en route.
- En route, the boat transport will be inspected.
- Delivery day:
- You (or your agent) should be present to accept the boat and pay the balance.
- The driver will coordinate with the marina for unloading.
- A final inspection will be done (with you or yard personnel) to check for transport damage.
- Tipping: A tip (e.g., the cost of a good dinner) is appropriate for a job well done.
Companies strive to provide the best transport services and value.