What to Know about Transporting Your Boat
A Q & A Session with Great Lakes Boat Transport
Published: Monday, May 7, 2012 7:00 am
By: Great Lakes Marine Services
What kind of boat transporting does your company do?
- We specialize in the transport of larger boats 25’ and larger power or sail (Oversized loads), which require semi-trucks and trailers for the move.
What is considered an oversized load?
- An oversized load is a load that is over of 13’6” high and over of 8’6” wide. If your boat is over these dimensions it means special routing and oversized load permits. The larger the load, the more costly it is to move due to restrictions and regulations. Great Lakes Boat Transport includes all permit charges in their quotes.
Why would I need to transport my large boat?
- Many people purchase boats out of state, some people boat in the Great Lakes during summer and in Florida during the winter, some people just do not have the time to cruise from one destination to another so they hire someone to move the boat to a new destination.
What types of trailers do semi trucks use to transport boats?
- There are two types of trailers, marine highway trailers and hydraulic trailers.
How do your hydraulic trailers operate?
- Most hydraulic trailers are self loading and self unloading. Great Lakes Boat Transport only uses Brownell hydraulic trailers that detach from a semi truck and by remote control back down the ramp into the water. After the trailer is submerged under the boat it is lifted up by air pressure on the keel and then retrieved back to semi truck. When the rig arrives to the destination, the trailer is lowered by air pressure unloading the boat onto blocks and boat stands. (No lifts or other vehicles are needed). This can save the customer lifting charges as well as offer them the flexibility to put their boat in their own backyard!
Why are some hydraulic trailers different than others?
- Some hydraulic trailers are only capable of hauling powerboats, others are only meant for short distances. Another aspect to look at is the ride quality, which can vary from trailer to trailer. Brownell Trailers have the best ride quality due to oversized airbags and safety check valves. Some trailers also offer more adaptability and support than others. Brownell Trailers are completely adjustable from large motor yachts to 8’ draft sailboats.
- The most important thing to be concerned about is keel pressure. Many boat manufacturers state that 70% of a boat’s weight needs to be on the keel. Some trailers use keel pressure to lift the boat while others use pad pressure. It should be noted that this lack of keel pressure can cause oil canning or hull twist. The more expensive trailers that use keel pressure cost around $150,000 and the less expensive trailers around $60,000. Great Lakes Boat Transport only uses hydraulic trailers that use keel pressure.
How do marine highway trailers work?
- These trailers require a facility with lifting capabilities to set the boat on the marine highway trailer. Marine highway trailers allow for power boats as well as large wing keel sailboats to be transported 5” above road height.
When I call companies for transport quotes what questions do I need to ask?
- Does the quote include all necessary oversized load permits?
- Does the quote include any fuel surcharges that may be applicable?
- If the transport trailer does not have hydraulic pads, will I be charged separately for bunkering or unloading?
- Does the hauler have the proper insurance?
All of these points mentioned above should be considered when choosing a boat transporter and most likely can save the boat owner time, money, and grief.
Please contact Jim Burt or Mike Burt for a price quote today! Call 1-262-375-3003.
Website: www.greatlakesmarineservices.
