Moving Your Saltwater Boat Over Long Distances
Saltwater boats can be a headache to own even when they are stationary, and many boat owners dread the thought of moving long distances with one. Assuming that you are moving to another area with coastal access, you will likely still want to enjoy your investment and all of the recreational opportunities it provides. Following these four steps to move your boat can make the process easier, particularly when you enlist the help of professional long-distance movers.
Wrapping up Your Current Moorage
Long-term moorage for a saltwater boat sometimes comes with contractual obligations, but it is usually fairly easy to relinquish or sell your dock space. Speak to the port or similar service housing your boat to inform them of your intent to move and take care of any necessary paperwork that may be involved. In some cases, ports have long waiting lists and will be happy to make room for another boat, leaving you free and clear to head for new waters.
Finding a New Storage Facility or Moorage
Once your old moorage is taken care of, you will need to find a new home for your boat before it goes anywhere. This can be a challenge, since space is often limited at ports. You may need to store the boat on land for several weeks or months before a space is available. When in doubt, ask your moving company about any facilities they may know of in the area. Long distance movers often have the resources to find storage solutions in any given city.
Preparing the Boat for Travel
Traveling overland with a saltwater boat is necessary when the distance is too far to sail comfortably or the boat is in need of repairs. Thankfully, the process is fairly simple as soon as the boat is out of the water. You will need to find a facility or service that can haul the boat up and place it safely on the trailer. This may also be a good time to have the boat cleaned and to take care of any little repairs that need to be done.
Relying on a Long Distance Mover
At this point, you should be able to turn over the boat and trailer to your moving company, who will haul it wherever you need to go. Entrusting your boat to professionals is recommended to avoid any scrapes or the potential hazards of driving with a large trailer. If you have any concerns about moving your boat or aren't sure where to begin, call your local long distance movers, such as http://www.midwestmoving.com, to begin forming a plan for your boat.