Moving with Boats and RVs: Expert Tips

Boats and RVs ship on open or enclosed trailers or roll-on/roll-off for trailerable boats with the price set mostly by size, distance, and season. Compare quotes for your exact dimensions to find the best rate.

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Moving with boats and RVs may seem challenging, but the right guidance and resources can make it a breeze. Our comprehensive guide provides expert advice to ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation experience. Plus, we’ll introduce you to Compare The Carrier, the perfect platform for obtaining quotes from top-rated auto transport companies. Get ready to embark on your next adventure with ease.

Key Takeaways

Boats and RVs ship by open trailer (cheapest), enclosed (most protection), or RoRo (for trailerable boats).

Cost depends on size, weight, distance, method, and season — measure your vehicle before getting quotes.

A broker compares vetted carriers for you and handles scheduling and any problems.

Prep matters: clean and photograph it, drain fluids on a boat, retract slide-outs on an RV, and disconnect the battery.

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In this guide

The role of auto transport brokers in boat and RV relocation

Transport methods: pros, cons, and recommendations

Open trailer transport

Enclosed trailer transport

Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping

How to calculate boat shipping & RV hauling cost

Essential boat and RV preparation tips

FAQ

The Role of Auto Transport Brokers in Boat and RV Relocation

When it comes to moving with your boats and RVs, teaming up with a dependable auto transport broker can be a game-changer. These experts serve as a bridge between you and the actual transport carriers, making your relocation experience a whole lot smoother. Let’s dive into the ways auto transport brokers play a key role in boat and RV relocation:

Carrier screening: Brokers vet carriers for safety and reliability and confirm they meet FMCSA licensing and insurance requirements.

Tailored solutions: They match the transport method to your specific boat or RV and needs.

Budget-friendly options: With a network of carriers, they compare quotes to find a competitive rate without cutting corners on safety.

Time-saver: They collect quotes, set pickup and delivery schedules, and handle carrier communication.

Problem solvers: If an issue comes up in transit, they help resolve it and keep everyone in the loop.

Comparing carriers through Compare The Carrier covers all of this — vetted, licensed options in one place.

Looking for a pre-screened shortlist? See our vetted RV transport companies guide, ranked by price, reliability, and reviews.

Transport Methods: Pros, Cons, and Recommendations

Picking the right transport method for your boat or RV is crucial for a smooth relocation experience. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks, so let’s break down the most common methods and offer some recommendations to help you decide:

Open Trailer Transport

Pros: Shields your boat or RV from weather, dust, and debris, with added privacy and options like padding.

Cons: Costs more and can be harder to book.

Best for: High-value vehicles where protection is the priority. This is the same RV shipping option many owners pick for newer or premium rigs.

Enclosed Trailer Transport

Pros: Shields your boat or RV from weather, dust, and debris, with added privacy and options like padding.

Cons: Costs more and can be harder to book.

Best for: High-value vehicles where protection is the priority. This is the same RV shipping option many owners pick for newer or premium rigs.

Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping (for Boats)

Pros:

Pros: Usually cheaper than container shipping, with a simple drive-on/drive-off process and plenty of carriers.

Cons: Exposed to the elements, and mainly designed for trailerable boats.

Best for: A trailerable boat where affordability matters more than full weather protection.

If you’re moving a fifth-wheel, 5th wheel transport is handled a bit differently from a drivable RV — worth confirming when you get quotes.

Choosing the right transport method for your boat or RV depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Weigh the pros and cons of each option and consult with a seasoned professional like Compare The Carrier to find the best solution for your move.

How to Estimate Boat Shipping & RV Hauling Costs

Figuring out the cost of boat shipping and RV hauling is essential when planning your move. Several factors influence the overall cost, and being aware of them helps you budget effectively. Here’s a breakdown of the main factors that impact shipping costs and some pointers for estimating them:

How to calculate boat shipping & RV hauling cost

Size and Weight
Bigger, heavier vehicles need more specialized handling and cost more. Measure length, width, height, and weight before getting quotes.

Transport Method
Enclosed and RoRo usually cost more than open trailer.

Distance and Route
Longer distances cost more, and remote routes run higher than well-traveled ones.

Seasonality
Summer demand pushes prices up; off-peak moves cost less.

Special Requirements
Oversized vehicles or special handling add to the price, so give carriers accurate details.

Estimating the Cost:

To get an approximate cost for your boat shipping or RV hauling, follow these steps:

Collect information on your boat or RV’s dimensions, weight, and any special requirements.

Determine the distance between the pickup and delivery locations and research the route’s popularity.

Take into account the time of year and any potential seasonal fluctuations in pricing.

Pick the transport method that best suits your needs and budget.

Request quotes from multiple carriers or consult an auto transport broker like Compare The Carrier to gather a range of price estimates.

By taking these factors into account and following these steps, you’ll be better prepared to estimate the cost of shipping your boat or RV and make informed decisions about your move.

Essential Boat and RV Preparation Tips

Getting your boat or RV ready for shipping is a vital part of a successful relocation. By taking the time to prepare your vehicle, you can save time, money, and avoid potential headaches during the process. Here are some essential tips for preparing your boat and RV for transport:

Boat Preparation Tips

Clean and inspect: Give your boat a thorough cleaning, both inside and out, and perform a detailed inspection. Document any existing damage with photos and notes, as this information will be helpful in case of disputes or insurance claims.

Secure all loose items: Make sure to secure or remove any loose items, such as personal belongings, equipment, and accessories, to prevent them from causing damage during transit.

Drain all fluids: Empty fuel tanks, holding tanks, and water systems to minimize the risk of leaks or spills during transport.

Disconnect the battery: Disconnect and secure the boat’s battery to prevent any accidental activation of electrical systems.

Protect the exterior: Use padding or protective covers for delicate or protruding parts, such as antennas, radar equipment, and windshields, to reduce the risk of damage during transport.

Inform the carrier: Provide the carrier with any specific handling instructions or unique features of your boat that may affect its transport.

Ready to take your boat preparation to the next level? We’ve got just the resource for you! In this video, you’ll find valuable tips, practical demonstrations, and step-by-step instructions on how to properly prepare your boat. Be sure to watch the video to gain valuable insights that will help you.

RV Preparation Tips

Clean and inspect: Just like with boats, clean your RV thoroughly, both inside and out. Inspect the exterior and interior for any existing damage and document it with photos and notes.

Empty and secure storage: Remove all personal belongings and secure any items that will remain in the RV during transport, such as appliances or furniture, to prevent them from shifting and causing damage.

Check tire pressure and fluids: Make sure your RV’s tires are properly inflated and check all fluid levels, including engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant. Top off any low fluids as needed.

Disconnect the battery: Disconnect and secure your RV’s battery to prevent accidental activation of electrical systems during transit.

Retract and secure: Retract all slide-outs and awnings, and secure any exterior accessories, such as ladders, antennas, or satellite dishes, to reduce the risk of damage.

Inform the carrier: Communicate any special handling instructions or unique features of your RV to the carrier, as these may affect the transport process.

By following these essential preparation tips, you can ensure the safe and secure transport of your boat or RV, making your relocation experience as stress-free as possible.

In conclusion, relocating with boats and RVs can be a breeze when you’re armed with the right knowledge about auto transport brokers, transport methods, shipping costs, and proper preparation. By following the expert tips we’ve provided, you’ll be well-equipped to make informed decisions and ensure a successful move. Remember to use platforms like Compare The Carrier to find trustworthy, licensed, and professional carriers for your boat and RV shipping needs, making your move even more seamless and worry-free.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a boat or RV?

It depends on size, weight, distance, and method. A short RV move often runs a few hundred dollars, while a large rig moved cross-country can reach $2,000-$3,000 or more. Boats price similarly by length and method. Get quotes based on your exact dimensions.

How long does it take to ship a boat or RV?

Anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on distance, method, and the carrier’s schedule.

Open or enclosed — which should I choose?

Open trailer is cheaper and fine for most vehicles. Enclosed costs more but protects high-value or newer boats and RVs from weather and debris.

Do I need insurance for my boat or RV during transport?

Carriers include basic coverage, but check the limits and confirm with your own insurer that a high-value vehicle is fully covered.

What documents do I need for boat or RV transport?

Usually the title or registration and insurance documents, plus any permits required for oversized or overweight vehicles. Requirements vary by carrier and route.

What happens if my boat or RV is damaged during transport?

Document the damage with photos and notify the carrier right away. Basic coverage applies; if the damage exceeds the limit, you may file with your own insurer. Review both policies before you ship.

Written by

Ryan Foster

Senior Auto Transport & Logistics Specialist

12+ Years Experience

Ryan leverages 12+ years of experience to simplify complex vehicle logistics. From interstate hauls to specialized shipping, he provides transparent, actionable advice to help customers navigate the transport process with confidence.

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