Preparing Your Runabout for Transport
Proper preparation ensures your runabout boat reaches its destination safely and without hassle. Follow this checklist to get everything ready for a smooth move:
- Clean the Hull and Underside: Remove dirt, algae, or marine growth from the bottom of the boat, especially around through-hull fittings, to comply with state inspection requirements and environmental regulations.
- Remove and Secure Loose Items: Detach all removable equipment such as ski poles, cushions, grills, life rings, and anchors. Secure or stow anything in the cockpit or cabin that could shift and cause damage in transit.
- Drain Fluids and Disconnect Power: Empty fuel and water tanks to reduce weight and eliminate the risk of leaks. Disconnect battery terminals and any onboard power sources for safety.
- Remove Personal and Flammable Items: Clear out all non-essential belongings, such as clothes, snacks, electronics, and valuables. Strictly remove flammable items, such as propane tanks, Sterno cans, and emergency flares.
- Inspect and Document Existing Damage: Carefully examine the boat for any existing scratches, dents, and other visible damage. Keep a record of these for reference to compare after delivery.
COST FOR SHIPPING A RUNABOUT BOAT WITH US:
When planning a shipment, cost is one of the most deciding factors in choosing a company. ASTS offers the most affordable and competitive prices in the market. Although there is a single price for every shipment, the average price of shipping a boat can range from $1.25 to $15.00 based on the type of shipping (domestic or international) and method of transport, among other factors. The final cost of shipping is determined by certain factors.
1. Boat Size & Weight: The size of your boat is a primary factor in determining shipping costs. Generally, larger boats cost more to ship per mile. Here’s what you need to measure:
Length: From the bow’s tip to the stern center
Height: From the keel base to the highest non-removable point
Width (Beam): The widest points, including the rub rail.
Boats taller than"13’6″ typically require specialized transport arrangements, while those with a beam exceeding 8’6″ are classified as oversized, necessitating a special permit, which contributes to the overall shipping cost.
2. Additional services: Larger boats also require oversized load permits and additional handling services during the loading and unloading process, which adds to the overall cost. Furthermore, transporting a larger boat to urban areas often requires escort vehicles, which contributes to the overall cost.
3. Distance: The distance between the pickup and destination location is also a significant factor. Longer routes typically cost less per mile and incur higher overall costs. Local hauls and intercity movements tend to have lower prices than interstate or nationwide shipments. Additionally, for shorter regional distances, inland transportation on a trailer is used, which is more cost-effective than other options.
4. Peak and off-peak seasons: Summers and springs are typically peak seasons for the transportation industry; hence, due to limited carrier availability and tighter schedules, prices tend to increase. However, off-peak seasons offer more discounted prices and flexible scheduling.
5. Pickup & delivery locations: Depending on the ease of access to the pickup and delivery location, prices may fluctuate. Remote areas, with limited access, may cost more than central locations, as they require extra miles to pick up the boat.
6. Flexibility of schedule: Flexible shipping dates often lead to better rates. Rushed or guaranteed delivery services will typically cost more.
It is essential to consider all these factors when calculating or estimating the cost of shipping a runabout boat.
