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Transporting a Boat in Australia

Transporting a Boat in Australia

Posted by Truckit on 02/08/2023

Boat transport, especially interstate, can be a daunting challenge if you have never done it before. This is why many boat owners choose to use specialised boat transport companies to get their boats moved safely and efficiently. However, even with outsourcing the transport, the process may not be as simple as one might like. This is why we have created this step-by-step guide to getting your boat transported.   

Step 1. Gather all information

Before you find a company to transport your boat you will need to ensure you have all the required details about your specific boat so you can source the quotes. This includes knowing the type of boat (sailing boat, power boat, yacht etc.), the make & model as well as the weight & dimensions. The more precise the details, the more accurate the quotes you will receive. This step is crucial because, if the transport company is supplied with incorrect information, they may issue price increases later in the transport journey. They may also not be able to complete the job if your boat is larger/heavier than what they allocated for.

Step 2. Source quotes

The next step is to source quotes from multiple different boat transport companies. It is important to shop around to get an idea of what the current market value is for your job and to ensure that you are getting a price that reflects a good service. It is also recommended you check the nature of the service in the quotes you receive. For example you may receive quotes for your boat to be towed as well as transported on a truck. It is important you confirm what type of service it is prior to booking, especially if your boat is not on a registered trailer or is unsuitable for towing.

Step 3. Find a reliable boat transport company

The next step is choosing a reliable boat freight business as this is essential to guarantee the successful movement of your prized possession. We always recommend conducting all necessary due diligence on the freight company, including checking their reviews and ensuring they are a legitimate Australian business. It should be noted that the cheapest quote you receive may not always be the best option. You should choose a quote from a provider who is trustworthy, has experience and is communicative during the quoting stage. A transport provider who answers all your questions promptly prior to booking is a good indication of the level of service they will supply after booking.  

Step 4. Prepare your boat for transport

Before transporting your boat, you need to prepare it for transport. This involves removing all loose items from your boat, including sails, electronics, and other gear. Any items that cannot be removed should be strapped down or packed away to ensure no damage occurs to your goods or your boat. All hatches and doors should also be secured during transport. We recommend taking photos of your boat from all angles prior to collection, noting down any pre-existing damage. This will make the process of insurance claims easier, in the unlikely event something was to happen during transit.

Step 5. Communicate with chosen transport company

To guarantee a seamless experience, we recommend maintaining communication with your chosen provider who is transporting your boat. We also recommend providing an additional contact during the booking process as a precautionary measure. This will enable the transporter to reach out to someone in case of any unforeseen circumstances where you cannot be contacted. If tracking is offered, we also recommend checking this frequently to remain updated on where your boat currently is.

Truckit.net can help simplify the process

With Truckit.net, you can easily find the right transport provider to move your boat. Our platform connects you with over 6000 transport providers who can move anything, anywhere within Australia. To get started, simply fill out the listing form on our website under the ‘Boats’ category and select the relevant subcategory for your boat type. This includes power boats, sailing boats, yachts and ‘other’. You will be required to provide some basic details about your boat, such as its make and model, dimensions, whether it's empty or not, if it’s on a registered trailer and how you want it moved. You can even add photos and more detailed descriptions of the condition of your boat; however, this is optional.

Once you've listed your boat, you'll start receiving quotes from different transport providers, giving you the option to choose the one that best suits your needs. Our platform lets you view the profiles of transport providers, including their completion rates and reviews from previous customers. You can also message providers to ask any questions you might have about their quote and service.

We offer a secure payment method through ‘Truckit Pay’, which requires full payment upfront but holds it in a third-party online wallet until the delivery is completed. Once you've chosen a transport provider and booked, all contact & job information will be released, and your boat will then be transported!

Don't wait any longer to transport your boat. Start your journey with Truckit.net today and benefit from our easy-to-use platform that connects you with multiple transport providers all in one place.

The Author
Truckit

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