Question

Boat Trailering Guys:,

I am moving 1300 miles from South Carolina's coast to Lake Michigan. I would like to move my Beneteau First 235 keelboat there. I do not have a trailer for it nor an appropriate tow vehicle. Will you make suggestions/recommendations/cautions for marine transport companies? Thanks.

Doug

Answered on: 9/2005

Here are a few suggestions on what to look for: 1. Get references for the company that you hire. Make sure that they are experienced with boat transport and have the proper equipment. You should also verify that the person that you are speaking with is the one who will be the service provider and that they are not simply the "broker" for the load". 2. Get multiple quotes. 3. Get a copy of their insurance information to verify adequate coverage and contact your insurance company to make sure that you have coverage while the vessel is being transported over land. 4. Go over the vessel with the driver in detail. Have the driver sign off on the condition of the vessel before he takes custody of it. Take photos. 5. Make arrangements with the receiving yard on when the vessel will arrive for mast stepping and launching. Hold the transport company to the schedule. 6. Make arrangements to meet the driver at the final destination so you can go over the condition of the boat.

Boat Trailering Guys: Mike