Choosing a shipping container for a boat is no simple matter. As the captain of your yacht, houseboat or sailboat, you know it’s critical to chart your course correctly when you hit the open waters. The same principle applies when you arrange for your boat to be shipped internationally. Although you won’t be consulting maps and charts, you’ll still need to plot the right course to ensure that your boat is handled properly throughout the process.
If you fail to correctly prepare your boat for shipping, the consequences can be serious. You may be hit with fines and unexpected surcharges that will inflate the shipping cost quoted by your boat carrier. You may even discover that your boat has been damaged during shipping. To keep your investment safe and sound, Trans Global Auto Logistics has compiled several helpful tips on how to ship a boat overseas.
Ensure that Your Measurements Are Accurate
To book a shipping container for your boat, it’s imperative to know its measurements. Not only are accurate measurements essential for calculating your shipping costs, but they’re also necessary for your transport company to choose the appropriate shipping container and the proper procedures.
Depending on the size and weight of your boat, you may need to obtain special permits before transporting it overseas. Failure to do so could result in a delay, putting your timeline behind schedule. It could also result in additional charges. Take the extra time to double-check your boat’s measurements to save time, money and energy.
Prep the Interior and Exterior
Before the boat carrier takes your vessel to the waters of its new homeport, you need to get it ready. Inside, take out any items, pieces of furniture or other cargo that may crash around the cabin during transportation. Lock and secure the cabinets, as well as all the windows. Double-check all of your compartments and empty any containers.
Outside, take off or otherwise secure the boat’s propellers, lights, and antennas. You may even need to temporarily remove pieces of trim. Lastly, wrap up the outside of the boat for its protection. Your boat carrier may offer wrapping services, but the rest of the prep is up to you.
Research All the Details
In addition to providing a shipping container for your boat, your transportation company can tell you what kind of container they’ll use, what fees are required and why, plus the type of documentation you need. They can also explain new regulations. Ask your freight company for a list of paperwork and permits, as well as a breakdown of all charges.
Plotting the right course is essential when sailing on the open seas, and it’s just as important when you’re preparing your boat for international shipping. Before you have your boat shipped overseas, make sure you follow these tips. For more information about shipping container boat prep or to receive a quote, contact Trans Global Auto Logistics. Find out how we can reduce your worries and meet your international shipping needs.
