Boat Transport

Boat Transport Nationwide

Boat transport ships personal watercraft, recreational boats, and yachts across the country. Whether you bought a boat from another state, are relocating with your boat, or need to move a boat between marinas, we coordinate the right transport. Boat shipping requires specialty trailers, proper securing, and experienced operators.

At Xpress Auto Transport, we work with a network of boat transport specialists. Our carriers handle everything from small fishing boats to large yachts. As a result, your boat arrives safely regardless of size or shipping distance.

Types of Boats We Transport

Different boat sizes require different transport approaches. Below are the main categories.

Small Boats (Under 20 feet)

Bass boats, jon boats, dinghies, and small fishing boats. These typically ship on their own trailers behind hauler trucks. Easy to load and transport.

Mid-Size Boats (20-30 feet)

Bowriders, deck boats, center consoles, and ski boats. Most ship on their own trailers. Larger ones may need specialty trailers.

Large Boats (30-45 feet)

Cabin cruisers, sport fishing boats, and larger center consoles. These require specialty trailers and often need oversize permits.

Yachts (45+ feet)

Motor yachts, sailing yachts, and large sport fishers. Yacht transport requires specialty trailers, permits, pilot cars, and route planning. Often involves multiple state permits.

Personal Watercraft

Jet Skis, WaveRunners, Sea-Doos — see our jet ski transport page for details on PWC shipping.

Boat Transport Methods

Several approaches work for boat transport. The right method depends on boat size and trailer availability.

On Your Own Trailer

If you have a roadworthy trailer, we can transport the boat on it. This is the most common method for boats under 30 feet. The trailer must have working brakes, lights, and proper hitches.

On Specialty Hauler Trailers

Boats without trailers ship on specialty boat hauler trailers. These trailers have adjustable supports for different hull shapes. Common for boats 30-45 feet.

Hydraulic Trailer Systems

Large yachts ship on hydraulic adjustable trailers. The trailer adjusts to support the hull at the proper points. Required for boats over 45 feet.

Boat Delivery (On Water)

For some routes, water-based delivery makes sense. A captain operates the boat to its destination. We can refer customers to delivery captains for coastal and intracoastal moves.

How Much Does Boat Transport Cost?

Boat shipping pricing varies dramatically by size. Below are typical ranges.

• Small boats (under 20 feet) — $1.50 to $3.00 per mile.
• Mid-size boats (20-30 feet) — $2.50 to $4.50 per mile.
• Large boats (30-45 feet) — $4.00 to $8.00 per mile.
• Yachts (45+ feet) — $7.00 to $15.00+ per mile.

Cross-country boat shipping ranges from $4,500 to $40,000+ depending on size. Permits, pilot cars, and route restrictions affect final pricing. Get a custom boat shipping quote.

What Affects Boat Shipping Cost?

Multiple factors influence boat transport pricing.

• Length and width — primary cost drivers.
• Height (with trailer) — affects route options and bridge clearances.
• Weight — heavier boats need stronger trailers.
• Trailer availability — own trailer vs. specialty hauler.
• Route distance — longer routes cost more.
• Permits required — oversize loads need state permits.
• Pilot cars — larger boats may require escort vehicles.
• Marina access — difficult marinas add cost.

Oversize Boat Permits

Boats wider than 8'6" or longer than 53 feet are oversize loads. Each state requires permits. Some states restrict travel hours for oversize loads. We handle permit acquisition as part of our service.

Oversize boat shipping may require:

• State permits for every state on the route.
• Pilot car or escort vehicles.
• Daylight-only travel restrictions.
• Specific route plans avoiding low bridges.
• Police escorts in some states (typically over 14 feet wide).

Boat transport involves more logistics than vehicle shipping. Permits, routes, and timing all matter. Plan 2-4 weeks ahead for boats over 30 feet.

Preparing Your Boat for Transport

Boat prep involves more than vehicle prep. Use this checklist before pickup.

• Remove all loose items from the boat.
• Secure or remove items in cabins and storage.
• Drain holding tanks and fresh water systems.
• Disconnect and store batteries if shipping long distance.
• Remove or secure canvas covers and biminis.
• Lower or remove antennas, outriggers, and tower components.
• Secure hatches, doors, and storage compartments.
• Document boat condition with photos from all angles.
• Drain bilges and fuel to appropriate levels.
• Provide all keys and access codes.

Marina-to-Marina and Inland Shipping

Most boat transport involves moving between bodies of water. Common routes include:

• Florida to Great Lakes (Snowbird season returns).
• Northeast to Florida (seasonal southbound).
• California to Lake Powell or Lake Havasu.
• Gulf Coast to Atlantic Coast (sport fishing relocations).
• Inland purchases from out-of-state sellers.

Why Choose Xpress for Boat Transport?

Boat transport requires specialized knowledge. Our network includes carriers experienced in marine vessel shipping. We handle permits, route planning, and pilot car coordination. Furthermore, our dispatchers ask the right questions about boat dimensions, marina access, and timing. As a result, your boat ships smoothly from start to finish.