How to Secure Your Boat for Transport
If you're moving to the other side of the country, then you may have decided to hire a marine transport contractor to move your boat. While getting a specialist to do this job means that you don't have to worry about transporting the boat, you do need to put some work in before your boat is picked up and loaded on to its trailer. What do you need to do to make your boat safe?
Make Things Secure
While your boat will be securely transported on a marine transport trailer, you shouldn't just leave things as they are right now. Things may get damaged in transit.
First, go through the interior of your boat and take out all your personal possessions, especially those that are valuable. It's also a good idea to remove portable equipment, electronics and any documentation you keep on the boat.
If you are leaving things on board, like equipment or gear, then make sure that they are securely stowed. If you can, put them in locked compartments. To avoid movement damage, things should at least be kept in compartments or cupboards that shut securely and that won't come open on the journey. If your cupboards and drawers have a habit of opening when your boat moves, tape them shut.
You should also remove any items that may come loose on the outside of the boat. For example, if you have a dinghy, then deflate it and stow it inside. Finally, make sure that all your windows and cabin doors are securely shut and locked.
Do Transport Maintenance Jobs
Your boat's water and fuel supplies need some work before transport. For example, you should ensure that bilges, water tanks and pumps are as empty of water as you can get them. Empty out your fuel tank as much as you can. Your transport company generally won't want to carry boats that have a full fuel load.
If your boat has a motor, then make sure that this is locked or tied into a secure position. At this stage, you should also disconnect your boat's battery.
While these basic preparations will get most boats ready for transport, your marine transport company may have additional requirements. Make sure to check if your contractor needs you to do anything else to the boat before transport. This will save you time and make sure that the boat is an acceptable condition for the move. Also, make sure to reach out to a marine transport company if you would rather have your boat towed via another boat to your location.