Shipping a small boat or a motorcycle involves more than just loading it up and driving away. It requires careful planning to ensure your prized possession arrives safely at its destination. You need a reliable method that fits your budget and timeline. Whether you are moving across the country or selling a vehicle to an international buyer, understanding your options is the first step.
This guide explores the four best ways to transport these vehicles. We will examine road, rail, air, and sea transport to help you make the best decision for your needs. Specifically, we will dive deep into road transport options to highlight the differences between open and enclosed carriers.
1. Road Transport The Most Common Choice
Road transport is the go-to method for most people shipping small boats and motorcycles domestically. It offers a balance of cost and convenience that is hard to beat. Trucks can pick up your vehicle from your driveway and deliver it directly to the new location. This door to door service eliminates the need for you to travel to a terminal or port.
When you choose road transport, you generally have two main options to consider. These are open truck transport and enclosed truck transport. Each has its own set of benefits depending on your budget and how much protection your vehicle needs.
Open Truck Transport
Open truck transport is the industry standard for shipping vehicles. You have likely seen these carriers on the highway. They are large trailers with multiple levels loaded with cars, motorcycles, or small boats. This method is popular because it is the most affordable option. Since the carrier can haul many vehicles at once, the cost is split among several customers.
The primary characteristic of open transport is that your vehicle is exposed to the elements. Rain, sun, wind, and road debris are all factors during the journey. However, damage is rare. Drivers secure motorcycles and boats with professional straps and chocks to prevent movement. For standard motorcycles and small aluminum boats, this level of exposure is usually acceptable. It is similar to driving the vehicle yourself, minus the wear and tear on the engine.
Availability is another huge advantage here. There are thousands of open carriers on the road. This makes it easier to schedule a pickup and delivery that fits your timeline. You typically do not have to wait long for a spot to open up on a trailer.
Enclosed Truck Transport
Enclosed truck transport offers a premium level of protection. In this method, your motorcycle or boat travels inside a fully enclosed trailer with four hard sides and a roof. This creates a shield against weather and road hazards. Your vehicle stays clean and dry throughout the entire trip.
This option is ideal for high value items. If you are shipping a vintage motorcycle, a custom chopper, or a luxury small boat, enclosed transport provides peace of mind. The drivers who operate enclosed trailers often specialize in high end vehicles. They often use specialized equipment like hydraulic lift gates to load low clearance items safely.
The main trade off is the cost. Enclosed transport can cost significantly more than open transport. There are fewer enclosed carriers on the road, which can also mean longer wait times for scheduling. However, for owners of irreplaceable or delicate vehicles, the extra expense is worth the guarantee that the vehicle will arrive in showroom condition.
2. Rail Transport A Cost Effective Alternative
Shipping by train is an option that many people overlook. Rail transport can be a very efficient way to move vehicles over long distances. It is often cheaper than road transport because trains use less fuel per ton of cargo. If you are moving a boat or motorcycle from the East Coast to the West Coast, rail might save you a significant amount of money.
The process usually involves dropping your vehicle off at a terminal. The vehicle is then loaded into a secure train car. Some services offer enclosed auto racks that protect vehicles from the weather. Once the train arrives at the destination terminal, you or a designated agent must pick it up.
While cost is a major benefit, timing can be a drawback. Rail transport typically takes longer than trucking. Trains run on set schedules and may have stops along the way. You also do not get the convenience of door to door service. You have to arrange transportation to and from the rail terminals. Despite these factors, rail remains a solid choice for budget conscious shippers who are not in a rush.
3. Air Transport The Fastest Method
If speed is your top priority, air transport is the undisputed champion. Shipping a motorcycle or small boat by plane cuts travel time from weeks or days down to mere hours. This is often the method of choice for international moves or urgent deliveries. Perhaps you need a motorcycle for a race next weekend or a boat for a specific event overseas. Air freight makes that possible.
Security is another strong point for air cargo. Airports have strict security protocols. Your vehicle is handled with extreme care and monitored closely. The risk of theft or damage is incredibly low compared to other methods. The handling process is streamlined and highly professional.
The downside is the price tag. Air transport is by far the most expensive way to ship anything. The cost is calculated based on weight and volume. Even a small motorcycle can cost a small fortune to fly. Because of the high cost, this method is rarely used for standard moves. It is reserved almost exclusively for high value vehicles or time critical situations where the budget is not the primary concern.
4. Sea Transport Best for International Shipping
When you need to cross an ocean, sea transport becomes the most practical solution. It is the standard for international vehicle shipping. Cargo ships can carry massive amounts of weight, making them the most cost effective way to move vehicles globally.
There are two main ways to ship via sea. The first is Roll On Roll Off, often called RORO. Your boat on its trailer or your motorcycle is driven onto the ship and secured below deck. It is basically a floating parking garage. This is usually the cheapest sea option. The second method is container shipping. Your vehicle is loaded into a secure shipping container. You can often pack other personal items in the container as well. This offers more protection but costs more.
While sea transport is economical for long distances, it is also the slowest method. A shipment can take several weeks or even months to arrive. You also have to navigate customs regulations and port fees. Despite the long transit time, sea transport remains the king of international logistics for its ability to handle large volumes at a reasonable price.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right shipping method depends on your specific situation. Road transport works best for most domestic moves, with a choice between the affordability of open trucks and the protection of enclosed trailers. Rail offers a budget friendly alternative for long cross country trips if you have flexible timing. Air transport is the answer for urgent, high value deliveries, while sea transport is essential for international relocation.
Assess your budget, your timeline, and the value of your vehicle. By weighing these factors against the pros and cons of each method, you can ensure your small boat or motorcycle arrives safely at its new home.
