Patrick MacFarland ·
Updated June 11, 2026
If you’re planning to transport your boat, finding a reliable and trustworthy boat transport company can make a huge difference. A reliable boat shipping company can take the stress out of shipping your boat and give you peace of mind that it will arrive safely at its destination. With so many boat transport companies in the US, it can be challenging to know which ones are reliable and have a good reputation. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top boat transport services in the US to help you make an informed decision.
1. CitizenShipper — Best Boat Shipping Marketplace
CitizenShipper is a popular US-based transportation marketplace that provides reliable and cost-effective boat transport services. With a vast network of professional and experienced boat transporters, CitizenShipper offers easy and hassle-free booking, competitive pricing, and exceptional customer service. Whether you need to ship your boat across the country or just a few miles away, CitizenShipper can help you find the perfect transporter for your needs.
Pros:
- Transporters bid for your shipment, allowing you to compare and contrast drivers.
- You can chat directly with the transporters that bid on your shipment.
Cons:
- Not a dedicated boat transportation company.
- Doesn’t offer international shipping.
2. uShip — Largest General Shipping Marketplace
uShip is another popular boat shipping marketplace in the US that offers a range of transportation services, including boat transport. Similar to CitizenShipper, uShip isn’t actually a boat shipping comapny but a marketplace that connects boat owners with transporters.
Pros:
- More options for choosing transporters.
- GPS tracking is available.
Cons:
- The marketplace isn’t dedicated to boat transport, so you may experience transporters with less experience.
- No international transports.
3. Schumacher Cargo Logistics — Best for International Boat Shipping
Here’s another company that doesn’t only specialize in boat transportation. However, Schumacher is different from CitizenShipper and uShip in that it’s more of a traditional logistics company. Their haulers are hired from a network within the company and aren’t necessarily employees.
Pros:
- 24/7 tracking is included with the transport.
- Offers international boat shipping.
Cons:
- You aren’t able to handpick your driver.
4. We Will Ship It — Domestic and International Boat Transport
This company bills itself as a the “Top Rated Vehicle Shipping Company in the US” — though it’s not clear what criteria they’re using. We Will Ship It can transport boats and yachts, and has international transport.
Pros:
- Offers international transport.
- Well-reviewed by previous customers.
Cons:
- The company’s specialty is vehicle transport.
- Substandard website that lacks information.
5. Showroom Transport — Experienced Overland Boat Hauler
Showroom Transport has been around for nearly 30 years, creating a legacy of high-quality transportation. The company transports cars, boats, motorcycles and more to the 48 continental states. They don’t offer international service or transports to Alaska or Hawaii.
Pros:
- Decades of experience transporting vehicles and boats.
- They have drivers within 200 miles of most major and mid-size US cities.
Cons:
- It has a very low-tech website.
- Doesn’t offer international boat transportation or shipping to Alaska and Hawaii.
How to Choose a Reliable Boat Transport Company
When it comes to hiring a boat shipping company, it’s essential to hire the right one. After all, your dear Delilah means the world to you. There are qualities to look after when choosing the best boat shipping company.
Read Reviews and Testimonials
One of the first steps in finding a reliable boat transport company is to check online reviews and ratings from previous customers. This will give you an insight into their reputation and the quality of services they provide. Look for companies that have consistently positive feedback and high ratings, as this indicates customer satisfaction.
- Do your research by searching for reviews online.
- Join Facebook or social media groups related to boats and boat hauling.
- Ask previous customers about their experience with specific boat hauling companies you’re considering.
Check their Credentials and Insurance
Before entrusting your valuable boat to any transport company, it’s essential to verify if they have proper licensing and insurance coverage. A reputable boat transport company should hold all necessary licenses required by law. They should have comprehensive insurance coverage that protects your boat against any damages that may occur during transit.
- High quality boat transport companies have the appropriate licenses and credentials to ship boats.
- They’re registered with the Department of Transportation and with the Federal Motor Carrier Authority.
- A good transport company should have a strong insurance policy. While accidents are rare, having your boat covered gives you peace of mind.
Boat Shipping Experience
Not all boats are created equal, and different types of vessels require specific handling techniques during transportation. When choosing a boat transport company, inquire about their experience in transporting boats similar to yours. Whether you own a small fishing boat or a large yacht, selecting a company with expertise in handling your specific type of vessel will ensure its safe delivery.
- The best boat transportation companies have years of experience hauling boats.
- They have a proven track record of successfully providing domestic (and maybe even international) boat shipping services.
Customized Shipping Solutions
The best boat haulers will offer customized shipping to their customers. When customization is possible, it means the boat shipping company cares about its customers and their vessel. When you use CitizenShipper, you can chat with transporters before booking to make sure every detail is hammered out.
- If you want to ship your boat during a particular time of year, the boat shipping company will make accommodations to do so.
- Or if you want your boat transported a certain way, it will be possible.
How Much Does Boat Transport Cost?
Boat transport costs vary widely depending on the vessel’s size, transport distance, route complexity, and the type of equipment required. While every shipment is unique, most boat transporters calculate pricing based on a combination of mileage and the boat’s dimensions.
Typical industry pricing ranges are:
| Boat Size | Typical Cost Per Mile |
|---|---|
| Under 20 feet | $1.00–$3.00 per mile |
| 20–30 feet | $2.00–$4.00 per mile |
| 30–40 feet | $3.00–$6.00 per mile |
| 40+ feet / yachts | $5.00–$10.00+ per mile |
| Oversized vessels | Custom quote required |
Note: Pricing varies significantly by route, permits, fuel costs, and equipment requirements. Use actual marketplace averages if available before publication.
Several factors influence the final cost of transporting a boat:
Distance
Longer moves generally cost more overall but often have a lower cost-per-mile rate than shorter regional shipments.
Boat Dimensions
Length, beam (width), height, and weight all affect pricing. Wider and taller boats may require special permits, escort vehicles, or alternative routing.
Transport Method
Standard trailer transport is usually the most affordable option. Flatbed transport, hydraulic trailers, cranes, and specialized yacht-moving equipment increase costs.
Time of Year
Demand often peaks during spring and summer boating seasons. Transporting a boat during off-peak months may result in more competitive pricing.
Pickup and Delivery Accessibility
Remote marinas, storage yards, and locations with limited truck access may increase transportation costs due to additional travel time and logistical challenges.
The easiest way to determine your actual transport cost is to list your shipment on CitizenShipper. Simply provide your boat’s dimensions, pickup location, destination, and preferred timeline. Professional transporters can then submit competing quotes, allowing you to compare pricing, experience, insurance coverage, and customer reviews before booking.
Small Boat vs. Large Boat Transport: What to Know
The transportation process for a small fishing boat differs significantly from moving a large cruiser or luxury yacht. Understanding these differences can help you anticipate costs, timelines, and preparation requirements.
Small Boat Transport (Under 20 Feet)
Smaller boats are generally the simplest and least expensive vessels to move. Most can be transported using standard boat trailers without special permits or routing restrictions.
Advantages of transporting a small boat include:
- Lower transportation costs
- Greater carrier availability
- Faster scheduling options
- Fewer permit requirements
- Easier loading and unloading
Many transporters can accommodate small fishing boats, bass boats, personal watercraft, and runabouts using conventional towing equipment.
Large Boat and Yacht Transport (20+ Feet)
As boats increase in size, transportation becomes more specialized. Larger vessels often require hydraulic trailers, adjustable cradles, and professional loading equipment designed specifically for marine transport.
Transporting larger boats may involve:
- Specialized yacht trailers
- Travel lifts or cranes
- Additional insurance requirements
- Detailed route planning
- Height and width clearance evaluations
Oversized Boat Transport
Boats that exceed legal highway width or height limits present additional logistical challenges. Oversized vessels frequently require:
- Wide-load permits
- Escort or pilot vehicles
- Alternate routes to avoid low bridges
- Utility coordination for overhead obstacles
- State-by-state permit compliance
Because permit regulations vary by state, oversized boat shipments require careful planning and experienced transporters. While these moves are more expensive than standard boat transport, hiring a carrier with experience handling large vessels helps ensure the boat arrives safely and legally at its destination.
Find the Right Boat Transport Company for Your Needs
Transporting your boat doesn’t have to be a stressful and overwhelming experience. With the help of reliable boat transport companies, you can ensure the safe and hassle-free transportation of your boat. CitizenShipper, uShip, United Yacht Transport, InterWest, and Suncoast Boat Transport are some of the best boat transport companies in the US that offer reliable and cost-effective transportation services for boats of all sizes and types. Contact them today and get a shipping quote to transport your boat with ease!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the safest way to transport a boat?
How do I find reliable boat transport companies near me?
Can I ship a boat internationally from the US?
What should I look for in a boat shipping company?
How long does it take to transport a boat across the US?
Patrick MacFarland has been a teacher, a candidate for public office, and a local tour guide. But now he dedicates his time writing full-time, currently at CitizenShipper and VeraContent.
