How to Ship Your Boat or Yacht Overseas?

From choosing the right shipping method to ensuring customs compliance, there are several important factors to consider. In this guide, we’ll explore the various international shipping methods of boats shipping overseas, the necessary steps for a successful shipment, and the benefits of entrusting this task to a reputable international shipping company. So, if you’re ready to set sail on your international boat shipping journey, let’s dive in!

How to Ship Boat Overseas?

If you’re buying your boat internationally, you should use the services of a freight forwarder or licensed NVOCC (non-vessel operations common carrier). They will reserve space for your boat aboard a ship, book transit, do all the necessary paperwork and charge you a fee for the service. The Federal Maritime Commission governs both freight forwarders and NVOCCs.

Choose an International Shipping Company

Research and select a reputable international moving company with experience in boat shipping. Look for companies that specialize in shipping boats and yachts, as they will have the necessary expertise and equipment to handle the process.

Start by looking for a company registered with the Federal Maritime Commission to ship your boat. Note their history and longevity–if they’ve been around for a longer time period, chances are they are financially strong.

Obtain Necessary Documents

Gather all the required documentation for international shipping. This may include boat ownership papers, registration, insurance documents, and any specific permits or certificates required by the destination country.

Another option is to work with a yacht broker. A yacht broker’s main function is to bring buyer and seller together. The buyer is the shipper of the goods, the boat owner and the seller is the shipping company or carrier in this case. The broker will take inquiries from buyers and pass them onto carriers to find the most affordable or convenient option for the buyer. The boat owner will pay a commission for the service along with the shipping fee.

Both a broker and forwarder will create and process the proper paperwork to ship the boat. A reputable freight forwarder and yacht broker will ensure that their client has enough insurance coverage. The freight forwarder should have similar cargo insurance coverage to a motor carrier which should cover your investment in the event of a problem. Remember that your yacht insurance policy doesn’t cover the vessel during shipment.

Prepare the Boat for Shipment

Before shipping, prepare your boat properly to minimize potential damage during transit. This may involve the following steps:

• Winterize the boat: Protect the engine and interior from damage caused by freezing temperatures.
• Remove personal items: Remove any personal belongings and equipment from the boat to ensure that they won’t be damaged or lost during transit.
• Shrink-wrap: Consider shrink-wrapping the boat to protect it from dirt, moisture, and debris.
• Secure loose items: Secure any loose items on the boat to prevent movement during transportation.

Cost to Move Boat or Yacht

The cost to move a boat or yacht can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the following:

• Size and Weight: Larger and heavier boats cost more due to increased logistics.
• Type of Boat: Different boats have specific transportation needs affecting costs.
• Transport Method: The chosen shipping method (RoRo, LoLo, container) impacts cost.
• Distance and Destination: Shipping distance and location influence the overall cost.
• Additional Services: Optional services (marine insurance, cradle construction) add to the total cost.
• Customs and Regulations: Import/export duties and taxes can affect the cost.

To obtain an accurate cost estimate, we recommend reaching out to an experienced overseas shipping company. Provide them with details about your boat or yacht, the transportation route, and any specific requirements. They will be able to provide you with a customized quote based on your specific needs.

Different shipping methods for boat shipping

There are several methods to ship boats, each suitable for different types and sizes of boats. The main methods for boats shipping internationally are as follows:

• Roll on/Roll off (Ro/Ro) shipping: Involves rolling the boat onto a specialized vessel using a trailer or cradle.
• Lift on/Lift off (Lo/Lo): This method is suitable larger boats that cannot roll onto the vessel and require lifting with a crane.
• Container Shipping: This method is suitable for transporting boats that can fit within standard shipping containers.
• Flat Rack Shipping: Boats with irregular shapes or sizes, flat rack shipping is a suitable option.
• Semi-Submersible Vessel: Used for transporting large super yachts and boats that are too big for conventional vessels.

Each method is chosen based on the boat’s size, type, and specific transportation needs, and they each have their own advantages.When shipping a boat, it is essential to work with an experienced overseas moving company to determine the most suitable method for your boat and to ensure a smooth and successful shipment.

Loading and Unloading – What is it About

Loading and unloading a boat for shipping involves preparing the boat, choosing the appropriate method (RoRo, LoLo, container, flat rack, or semi-submersible), and safely securing it onto the vessel or container. Upon arrival at the destination port, the boat is carefully unloaded using the corresponding method, and if needed, transported to its final destination.

Important Ports that Do boat or Yacht Shipping

There are several important ports around the world that handle boat and yacht shipping. These ports are well-equipped to accommodate the loading, unloading, and storage of boats and yachts during the shipping process. Some of the significant ports for boat and yacht shipping include:

Import Boat to USA – The Process

When importing a boat to the USA, there are essential steps to follow.

• First, ensure customs compliance by gathering all necessary documentation, including ownership papers, registration, permits, and certificates.
• Next, choose an appropriate shipping method such as RoRo, LoLo, container shipping, or flat rack shipping, depending on the boat’s size and type.
• Work with the shipping company to complete all required customs procedures and paperwork for customs clearance in the USA. Once the boat arrives at the designated port, it undergoes inspection and clearance by customs authorities.
• Finally, after customs clearance, make arrangements for the transportation of the boat from the port to its final destination within the USA.
• By following these steps, the boat import process can be successfully completed in compliance with regulations.

Why International Sea and Air Shipping?

When it comes to importing a boat or yacht to the USA, International Sea and Air Shipping company is here to help you with all your needs. As a licensed boat importer, we have extensive experience in handling shipments coming to the United States. The import process for boats is similar to the export process, and we utilize the same reliable shipping methods for transporting boats to the US from overseas destinations.

Our import services cover a wide range of popular destination ports, which are the same ports used for exporting boats. While most boats and yachts are imported from Europe, we also handle imports from Oceana, Asia, and the Middle East, ensuring a global reach for your shipping needs.

To get an accurate cost estimate for your boat or yacht import, reach out to us for a custom quote specifically tailored to your requirements. What’s more is that International Sea and Air Shipping, we are committed to providing excellent service and competitive pricing for your boat shipping needs to the USA.