Why do shipping quotes vary SO MUCH? [links]
See full version: Houseboat Movers and Tips for Transport
Why do shipping quotes vary SO MUCH? [links]
Personal experience in shipping a number of houseboats via houseboat movers, has led me to the following conclusions: First, you get what you pay for, and second, choose a good hauler in order to Do it Right the First Time! The following article compiles this lesson and more into an easy-to-read guide that will help you manage a trouble-free, successful move. [links]
To ensure you have a smooth experience when shipping your houseboat, get all the details on the following issues upfront: here
Preparing a houseboat for safe transport is an important step to insure a smooth and timely shipment. This following tips identify areas that will need your attention. Remember that general height limitations are 13’6".
There are many items that will need to be taken care of before you can safely Transport a Boat. Most of the preparation needed can be done by you or your agent. The marina and boat mover you choose can be a great resource for information. Most of the details that need to be addressed require very little technical skill or experience. If you have more time than money, here is a great opportunity to save a bundle, and get to know your vessel a little better at the same time.
All cabin windows need to be latched tight and taped from the outside. Protruding flying bridge windshields and Plexiglas needs to be removed, packaged in a cargo blanket, and stored below. The transporter will not be responsible for damages if they are not removed and stored properly.
The transporter cannot be responsible if damage occurs to the boat due to hatches blowing off or water leakage during transit. Your boat will sit in a different position on the trailer than it does in the water. You will need to leak-proof, tape down, and secure, your hatches from the outside.
While waiting for replies, try searching this forum (blue banner section at the top of this page) :more
Here is one thread which might provide you some information:
My suggestion is to find a shipper that will disassemble and reassemble - that way no one can blame the other for missing items or breakage. My shipper did it all. here
I had my 1979 43DC shipped from Chicago to South Carolina and we had to remove the flybridge, hardtop and lower windshield glass and side glass. The shipper left the flybridge attached to the hardtop. The windshield and side glass came off in one piece after removing the sliding side glass pieces. All in all not to complicated.
All equipment and attachments that travel poorly should to be removed prior to transport. This includes anchors, canvas, antennas, Ventura and any unsecured items in the cockpit and/or bridge areas. Electronic heads need to be stowed in a locker below. Ventura with solid frames should be removed. They can sustain wind damage traveling at 55+mph, creating cracks around the fastening holes, which can be costly to repair. Taping or lashing antennas will stop movement and damage, and as TV antennas are particularly fragile they should be removed and securely lashed below deck. Again, powerboat shipping company drivers typically do not carry tools to prepare your boat in this manner. more
Powerboat Transport has its own issues. The main issue being the overall height of the boat. Knowing the height is an issue when working up a quote and planning the route that will be taken when moving the vessel to a new marina. Every state has its own laws and rules regarding the transporting of a boat. Your Boat Hauler needs to have the proper height measurement when applying for permits. Generally, you are allowed 13’6” in the northeast and mid-Atlantic, states and 14’ in most other states. If you exceed these heights, permits are required, a pole car may have to travel with you as well. Due to weight and height requirements, you may need to remove certain parts of the vessel before transport. Please remove all outriggers, antennas, flag masts, propellers, etc. Even if your powerboat is low enough to ship with the fly bridge on, you should remove wheels, masts, windshields and Plexiglas that extend over the bridge. Packing them in a cargo blanket before storing them below deck will keep them safe. Remove all lights that rise above or are attached to the bridge. If your powerboat is too tall to ship with the fly bridge on it, you will need to have a cradle built, which will support the bridge during transport. The bridge can be placed on the cockpit area or forward deck of the vessel. All points touching the rail or deck must be adequately padded. Please remove all valuables and electronics, package them securely, and store them below deck. If you have additional questions, call your powerboat transport company. here
Here we answer some of the most commonly asked questions about the advance preparations needed before your powerboat transport is ready to commence. A lot of it is really just general common sense, although like most things, paying attention to all the small details is important in getting your powerboat transportation job done right. We are capable of handling all the details related to the logistics of moving your powerboat. These steps are part of what you will need to do, or have your powerboat transportation company do for you before pick up of your vessel. All powerboats have their own personality and quirks. The understanding of these quirks is critical in making sure your vessel is transported safely to its new location. If you have questions or concerns, feel free to contact us, as we can be a wealth of information if you are in need of transporting your powerboat.
Fluids can be an issue for boat haulers when moving your vessel. Water and fuel may have to be drained, which should be a normal procedure anyway, especially if the vessel is of wood construction. here