After buying your dream boat or relocating to a new home, you are faced with the challenges of transporting your boat to your new location.
Do you wonder how much it costs to transport your boat per mile?
US Car-Go Freight is here to answer your questions and clear your doubts. In this blog, we will delve into all the factors that affect the cost of boat transport, and how to lower the cost of your boat shipping. Let’s dive into the details you need!
Factors That Impact the Cost of Boat Transport
Shipping Distance
One of the most important factors that affect the cost of your boat shipment is the distance between where the boat is being picked-up and its final destination.
It is crucial to note that, the farther you go, the cheaper the cost per mile becomes. For example: transporting a boat for a short distance (under 500 miles) could be as expensive as $3 per mile, whereas long-distance moves (1,000+ miles) could be closer to $1 per mile.
Boat Size and Weight
The bigger the weight or size of your boats, the higher the shipping costs and vice versa. This simply means that when moving larger boats, such as yachts or commercial vessels requires bigger equipment and care to move them safely.
Heavy boats require more specialized transport, which usually means bigger trucks, custom trailers, and more labor.
Transport Type
Another big variable is how your boat is transported. You’ve got overland transport (by truck) and waterway transport (by sea or barge).
● Overland transport is the most common and can include anything from flatbed trailers to custom boat transporters. Costs here range widely, but it’s the fastest option, and it’s ideal for inland transport.
● Waterway transport is used mainly for larger vessels or long-distance moves. It tends to be more expensive because you’re paying not only for the boat’s transport but also for fuel and specialized crew. That said, it’s often the best option for massive yachts crossing oceans.
Seasonality
Just like booking flights, the season can significantly influence boat transport prices. Summer and spring are peak seasons for boating, so if you’re looking to transport your boat during these months, expect to pay more. Conversely, winter months, when fewer people are transporting boats, might offer lower rates.
Loading & Unloading Fees
Most boat transport services will charge extra for handling, especially if it’s a complicated loading/unloading process.
How to Reduce Your Boat Transport Costs
Book Early
Timing is everything in life and boat transport is not an exception. When you book your boat transport early, it gives the transport companies time to plan their route in advance well and in a much better way, which in turn reduces the shipping costs for everyone.
Transport in the Off-Season
There are seasons such as summer when there is an increase in boat shipping, keeping the shipping completely fully booked. This season is known as the "peak boating season" and transport companies have a higher volume of shipments, which often leads to higher prices.
Therefore, if you want to pay less, you need to schedule your boat transport during the off-season (fall or winter). Fewer boats are being moved at this time, so transport companies offer lower prices to fill their schedules.
Consolidate Your Shipments
Do you know other boat owners who want to transport their boat at the same time as yours? Adding your shipments to theirs will greatly reduce the total cost of your shipment. Many boat transport companies offer shared load services, so you don't have to worry about how this will work.
Compare Multiple Quote
Not all boat transport companies charge the same rates, so it is crucial to receive quotes from multiple companies. When you have many options, it is more likely for you to find the company that provides for your unique needs while maintaining quality services. You can also negotiate with the company you like to see if they are willing to lower their rates especially if you’re booking earlier.
The Final Thought
Transporting a boat per mile is a hefty investment, but for many boat owners, it’s an essential step to enjoy the open waters. Whether you’re moving a small or a luxury yacht, understanding the factors that influence transport costs will help you make a more informed decision and potentially save some money in the process.
Remember, the cost per mile isn’t set in stone, it fluctuates based on size, distance, season, and how you choose to transport your boat. So, start planning early, do your research, and get ready to set sail without the stress of unexpected costs.