It’s exciting buying a boat for the very first time and there will be things you should consider. We would always recommend you have a full survey, and a sea-trial; especially if the boat is really cheap! Whilst you’re making all your cost calculations we can email you a quotation for the transport. Our quotation is based on the make and model of your vessel, and of course the distance. In addition, you should also allow for boatyard charges for hauling out and loading and unloading to our transporter.
In the process of viewing a boat, and its purchase being completed; someone, a broker or a friend, would normally recommend a good marine surveyor. The surveyor’s job is to inspect the boat, both in and out of the water. Boats are lifted out to check the hull, any skins fittings, and of course the keel, propellors and rudders etc.
Once you have purchased the boat, there are normally a few days grace to store her until a transport date can be agreed to suit all parties. Our company can normally accommodate transports fairly quickly; and we would offer you loading date options, as well as preferred loading/unloading times. Unfortunately, we cannot book lifting slots at the boatyards on your behalf; for both security, and other reasons, these yards always want to speak directly to the buyer and sometimes the seller too!
NB. It is always cheaper to use boatyards that have their own loading gear. Boat transporters don’t have truck cranes for two reasons; firstly the crane would never have the capacity/reach to lift the boat from the water to the trailer; and secondly, nine out of ten yards have their own equipment, so they will not let anyone else come onto their property and steal their business.
Customers often ask me if we can load the boat straight after the survey to save the cost of an additional lift. We normally do not recommend because surveyors sometimes find minor issues that will need to be rectified before you and the seller can agree on a final purchase price. Anyway, we would be unable to keep our truck because that would not be cost effective for ourselves or our customers.
Now, regarding prepping the boat for transport, we can help you with that, and its best to speak to Geoff first. Please always leave a set spare keys at the yard office, or hide them on the boat somewhere - our driver may just find something that is best stowed inside the cabin, and you can be assured that we won’t forget the keys!
We don’t expect customers to take time off when we collect or deliver your boat, but if you want to be around, then of course our drivers will welcome you, and most likely find you a little task or two, collect coffee maybe.....
Our policy is not to ask for payment upfront, but after the boat is loaded - although under certain circumstances we are obliged to take a deposit. We email you an invoice and a photo of your boat on the transporter, normally before setting off; this allows you time to make a bank transfer or card payment online, before the truck reaches its destination. Most clients like this method, nobody wants the truck held up, waiting on the payment.
Finally the driver will get both the boat and keys signed for - delivery note - by the boatyard staff, and then it’s over to you to enjoy your new boat!
