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Reasons To Consider Shipping Your Boat Inland
Owning a boat is a privilege that comes with endless possibilities for adventure, whether it’s gliding along a lake, embarking on deep-sea fishing trips, or exploring coastal destinations. However, an essential consideration for boat owners is how to transport their vessels safely and efficiently when they need to be moved inland. Shipping a boat inland isn’t just for professional sailors or dealerships. It’s an option that many boat owners should explore, as it offers distinct advantages that can make ownership easier and more rewarding.
This guide will outline some important reasons to consider shipping your boat inland, as well as explain the logistics so you can confidently evaluate this transportation method.
Why Choose Inland Shipping?
The prospect of transporting a boat, whether to a new location for leisure or for maintenance or sale, may seem daunting at first. Many boat owners automatically think of sailing or using marinas to move their vessels, but inland shipping offers a more practical, cost-effective, and stress-free alternative.
Sailing long distances can be time-consuming, expensive, and even risky, highlighting the need for safer, more efficient options. Inland shipping addresses these challenges, allowing boat owners to reach destinations that might not even be accessible through waterways. Beyond convenience, this method of transport safeguards the longevity of the boat and ensures a smoother process compared to the uncertainties of open-sea navigation.
Advantages of Inland Shipping
One of the primary reasons to consider shipping your boat inland is the variety of benefits it offers compared to other transportation methods. These extend beyond mere convenience to deliver both tangible and intangible value.
Cost Savings
The first notable advantage is cost savings. While it may initially seem counterintuitive, shipping your boat can often be more economical than sailing it long distances. This is especially true when you consider hidden costs such as fuel, additional crew, and docking fees at various marinas. These added expenses quickly pile up during lengthy journeys, making inland shipping a more straightforward option.
Minimal Wear and Tear
Another critical benefit is the minimized wear and tear on your boat. Boats are sophisticated machines that require regular maintenance, and long journeys take a heavy toll on both the vessel’s structure and its mechanical components. Inland shipping spares your boat from unnecessary hours of engine strain and exposure to saltwater, ultimately reducing repair costs and maintenance needs over time.
Access to Remote or Landlocked Destinations
Additionally, inland shipping allows you to access remote or landlocked destinations. If you’re planning to relocate your boat to a specific river, lake, or inland location that isn’t accessible from the sea, this method offers the perfect solution. It opens up new opportunities for boating enthusiasts, making it practical to explore destinations that would otherwise be out of reach.
Environmental and Safety Benefits
Transporting your boat overland is often a greener option compared to sailing long distances. Since professional freight and trucking companies can move boats far more efficiently, inland shipping has a naturally lower carbon footprint. By opting for this method, boat owners can contribute to an eco-friendlier approach without compromising on their enjoyment.
Safety is another area where inland shipping excels. The risks of open-sea navigation are well-documented and range from unpredictable weather conditions to navigational hazards and even potential threats like piracy in certain regions. Inland shipping mitigates these dangers entirely. Your boat is securely loaded onto a transport vessel or trailer by professionals, greatly reducing the chance of accidents or damage during transit. For boat owners with high-value vessels or limited experience in long-distance sailing, this added layer of safety is invaluable.
The Inland Shipping Process
Knowing how inland shipping works is crucial for any boat owner who wants to take advantage of this transportation option. While the process might seem complex, it becomes straightforward with the right preparation and knowledge of the steps involved.
Contact a Professional Transportation Company
The first stage in the inland shipping process involves contacting a professional transportation company that specializes in moving boats. These companies typically conduct an initial assessment, considering factors such as your boat’s dimensions, weight, and final destination. They will then provide recommendations tailored to your needs, such as the type of trailer or truck required for the job.
Prepare the Boat
Once the transportation plan is in place, it’s essential to prepare your boat for the trip. This involves preparing both the exterior and interior to ensure no damage occurs during transit. Essential steps include securing loose items on board, lowering the mast on sailboats, and removing or protecting protruding equipment like antennas or navigation devices. Many transport companies will provide a checklist for boat owners to make this process easier.
Load the Boat on the Transport Vehicle
After preparation, professionals will carefully load your vessel onto the designated transport vehicle, making sure it is securely fastened to prevent movement during transit. Depending on the distance to your destination, the transportation company will work to minimize disruptions, delivering your boat with precision and care to the agreed location.
Unload the Boat and Inspect It
Lastly, upon delivery, the unloading process follows just as meticulous a procedure as the initial loading. Your boat will be inspected to confirm it has arrived in excellent condition. Any adjustments needed for immediate use, such as reattaching components or performing safety checks, can be facilitated on the spot. For boat owners new to inland shipping, working with experienced service providers ensures the process is stress-free and efficient.
Why More Boat Owners Are Considering Inland Shipping
More boat owners are considering inland shipping due to a combination of practicality, cost-effectiveness, and peace of mind. Whether you’re moving your boat to a new location for leisure, a market to facilitate its sale, or a facility for maintenance, inland shipping takes away the complexity of long-distance trips. The reduced wear and tear, minimized risks, and financial benefits are far too significant to ignore. More importantly, inland shipping allows you to spend less time worrying about the logistics of transportation. Instead, you can focus on what you truly enjoy—taking your boat out on the water and creating memories.
If the idea of a streamlined shipping process sounds appealing, it’s worth considering inland transport for your next move. Contact Coast to Coast Transportation for your marine boat transport needs. We offer towable and non-towable transport services throughout the United States. Our expert transport crew will deliver your boat to its new location with ease. Contact us to get a quick quote today.
