Nationwide Boat, Yacht, and Sailboat Transport Specialists
Transporting a boat requires more than just an open trailer; it demands specialized equipment, complex permitting, and expert logistics. As a fully licensed and insured nationwide carrier, Number 1 Auto Transport has the decades of experience necessary to move powerboats, sailboats, and yachts for private owners, dealers, brokers, and manufacturers across the United States. We manage all state and federal DOT compliance to ensure a stress-free, seamless move for your vessel.
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Specialized Boat Hauling: Equipment, Safety, and Compliance
Why Choose a Boat Transport Specialist?
Transporting your vessel safely demands expertise that goes far beyond standard vehicle shipping. At Number 1 Auto Transport, we offer proven solutions for all major clients, including private owners, boat dealers, brokers, marinas, and manufacturers.
Our dedicated service ensures absolute peace of mind:
DOT and Regulatory Expertise: We strictly adhere to all state and federal DOT regulations governing dimensional freight. Our team handles the complex compliance and permitting required for over-width, over-height, and over-length hauls.
Fully Licensed and Insured: We are a fully licensed, bonded, and insured carrier with comprehensive cargo coverage for the full replacement value of your vessel during transit.
Specialized Hauling Equipment: Our trucks are equipped with specialized, air-ride suspension trailers designed specifically to reduce road shock and safely cradle your boat’s hull, keel, and mast anywhere in the United States.
Seamless Communication: Our experienced drivers provide consistent updates and transparent communication throughout the entire moving process.
Our Credentials: Why We Are the Trusted Choice for Vessel Transport
Proven Reliability
With over 15 years in specialized logistics, Number 1 Auto Transport has a consistent track record of successfully transporting high-value assets, earning a reputation for absolute dependability in the industry.
Customer Satisfaction
Our customer-centric approach guarantees transparent communication, dedicated support from a specialist, and real-time updates throughout the entire shipping process for your peace of mind.
Diverse Service Options
We offer a range of custom hauling solutions designed to meet the specific needs of all vessel sizes, including over-dimensional, mast-up, and cradle transport options.
Why We Offer More than Other Boat Shipping Companies
While other boat shipping companies offer similar services, Number 1 Auto Transport provides the specialized expertise necessary for complex, custom hauls. We don’t just move standard-sized boats; we excel at logistics for oversized, tall, and complex vessels, including marina-to-marina service.
To ensure a precise quote and flawless transport plan, we focus on the specific technical details of your vessel:
Critical Vessel Details Required for Your Quote
Total Length and Height: The precise length overall (LOA) and the height from the bottom of the keel to the highest fixed point (mast or bridge). This dictates required state permitting.
Beam Size (Width): The width of the vessel at its widest point.
Mast Height: Whether the mast can be dropped or if it must be transported erect (mast-up).
Equipment Needs: Confirmation of the vessel’s weight and if it requires a custom cradle or if it is mounted on a road-ready trailer.
Vessel Type: The exact make and model (e.g., Sailboat, Powerboat, Yacht).
Transit Times for Boat and Yacht Transport
Hauling a vessel requires more logistical planning than a standard vehicle due to specialized equipment and state permitting requirements. We provide the most accurate transit times possible while prioritizing the safety and security of your boat.
Pickup Window: Our specialized pickup window is typically 2 to 5 business days from the time the booking is confirmed. This allows us time to secure any immediate over-dimensional permits required for your vessel’s route.
Regional (Under 1,000 Miles): 3–7 days
Mid-Distance (1,000–1,750 Miles): 7–10 days
Coast-to-Coast (1,750–2,500+ Miles): 10–14 days
Please Note: Transit times are estimates. Routes requiring complex or multiple over-dimensional permits may extend the timeline. Your dedicated specialist will provide a clear estimate upon booking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boat Transport
We specialize in transporting a wide range of vessels, including powerboats, sailboats, yachts, fishing boats, and personal watercraft (PWC). Our fleet is equipped to handle standard, large, and over-dimensional vessels, including those requiring mast-down or cradle transport.
A boat is considered over-dimensional (or oversized) when it exceeds standard legal limits for width (beam), length, or height. Transporting these vessels requires obtaining specific, complex state permits and, in some cases, utilizing specialized pilot/escort cars. We manage all these regulatory steps to ensure your vessel is moved legally and safely.
Yes. Your vessel is fully protected by comprehensive cargo insurance from the moment our driver takes possession until final delivery. We ensure the coverage limits meet the full replacement value of your boat. We are happy to provide documentation outlining the policy specifics for your peace of mind.
For optimal safety, we require the following preparation:
Remove all loose items (deck gear, anchors, cushions).
Secure all cabin contents and lock doors/hatches.
Disconnect the battery and empty the fuel tank to no more than $1/4$ full.
If shipping a sailboat, the mast must typically be removed and secured unless prior arrangements for mast-up transport have been made.
Yes, we provide seamless door-to-door and marina-to-marina service nationwide. We coordinate directly with the marina staff on both ends to ensure safe and compliant pickup and delivery, including coordinating necessary crane or lift access when required.
Ready to Ship Your Vessel? Get a Guaranteed Boat Transport Quote
Do not risk your valuable powerboat, sailboat, or yacht with generic hauling companies. Number 1 Auto Transport provides the reliable, specialized logistics and expertise required to move complex vessels nationwide.
We manage the permits, the equipment, and the entire process—so you can focus on the water, not the road.
Stop comparing empty promises. Get a guaranteed rate from a trusted specialist today.
Call us now at 855-422-4141 or request your free, no-obligation quote.
