5 Common Boat Transport Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Transporting a boat safely and efficiently requires the right approach, equipment and planning. To help you avoid common pitfalls, our heavy haulage transport experts are here to outline the top five mistakes often seen in boat transport and how to steer clear of them. 

1) Neglecting to Secure Permits and Documentation

Boat transport often requires specific permits which, if not obtained, can lead to fines, delays or even legal complications. Each route may have different regulations, especially if borders are crossed or oversized vessels are being transported. As a result, you should always check the required documentation, or work with a reliable service that has experience with permits and legalities.

2) Inadequate Preparation and Packing

One of the most overlooked steps in boat transport is proper preparation and packing. Without sufficient protection, your boat is vulnerable to damage from vibrations, weather or debris on the road. This is especially true when dealing with heavy haulage, as the weight and scale of the load can cause stress on the vessel during transit. 

To avoid this, securely pack all loose items, make sure protective covers are fastened and inspect the boat for any weak spots.

3) Choosing the Wrong Transport Vehicle

Selecting an inappropriate vehicle for boat transport is another common mistake. Vehicles that are too small or lack proper equipment can lead to stability issues, which in turn can pose risks to both the boat and surrounding traffic. On top of this, the wrong vehicle may struggle with weight, leading to breakdowns or costly delays. Make sure to use a service that’s experienced in matching boats to the right transport vehicles.

4) Ignoring Route Planning and Conditions

Failing to plan the route without considering the load’s size and weight can also pose problems to boat transport jobs. Narrow roads, low bridges or sharp bends in the road can create challenges for large or heavy hauls. Unplanned delays due to traffic or road closures can also throw off the entire schedule. 

To avoid hold ups, always plan routes in advance, keeping your vessel’s dimensions and weight in mind. 

5) Overlooking Insurance and Liability Coverage

While many assume insurance is just a formality, accidents can and do happen - especially with heavy haulage. Overlooking appropriate insurance coverage can lead to financial and legal stress should anything go wrong. As such, make sure your insurance covers transport-specific risks. 

Get Started with Boat Transport Services

Avoid these common mistakes with the help of the professionals at Nick Sampson. We handle every element of your boat transport needs, meaning you can rest assured that your boat will have a smooth journey. Get in touch with us to learn more about our heavy haulage transport services.