How Much Does It Cost to Transport a 40-Foot Boat?

On this page:

1. Cost Breakdown of Transporting a 40-foot Boat Via Different Methods
2. Detailed Comparison of The Three Methods of Boat Transport
3. Factors Influencing the Cost of Transporting a 40-Foot Boat

Cost Breakdown of Transporting a 40-foot Boat Via Different Methods

Below is a table showing the cost per mile of transporting a 40-foot boat via road transport, boat shipping, and crewing:

Road Transport Cost per Mile	Boat Shipping Cost per Mile	Crewing Cost per Mile
$2.75 - $3.75	$1.50 - $3.50	$0 - $1.50

The per-mile cost of transporting a boat varies depending on the size of the boat, the distance traveled, and the mode of transportation. The average cost of transporting a boat via road is between $2.75 - $3.75 per mile for boats greater than 12 feet long.

For shipping, the cost can range from $1.50-$3.50 per mile for distances under 1,000 miles, but for greater distances and more complex requirements, the cost can be significantly higher. Crewing a boat can be more cost-effective, with the cost per mile ranging from $0-$1.50, but this option requires more time and effort.

For other types of boats, the table below shows the estimated costs of transporting each via road, cargo shipping, and crewing:

Boat Type	Road Transport Cost per Mile	Boat Shipping Cost per Mile	Crewing Cost per Mile
Dinghy	$2.50	$1.50	$0.75
Speedboat	$4.00	$3.00	$1.50
Yacht	$6.00	$5.00	$2.50
Catamaran	$7.50	$6.50	$3.25

Cost of road transport

Road transport is a popular option for boat owners who want to move their vessels over a short distance, such as within the same country. It involves loading the boat onto a trailer and towing it using a truck. The cost of road transport depends on the distance traveled, the size of the boat, and the type of trailer used.

Here is a sample breakdown of the costs involved in transporting a 40-foot boat via land:

Cost Item	Cost Range
Trailer Rental	$200 - $500
Fuel	$200 - $500
Permits	$50 - $200
Insurance	$100 - $300
Labor	$500 - $1,000
Total	$1,050 - $2,500

Cost of boat shipping

Shipping is highly preferred by those who want to move their vessels over a long distance. It involves hiring a shipping company to transport your boat via cargo ship. The cost of shipping is calculated based on the distance traveled, the size of the boat, and the shipping method.

Here is a sample breakdown of the costs involved in shipping a 40-foot boat:

Cost Item	Cost Range
Shipping Method	$2,000 - $10,000
Insurance	$500 - $1,500
Labor	$500 - $1,000
Total	$3,000 - $12,500

Cost of crewing a boat

Crewing is a suitable option for boat owners who want to move their vessel over a long distance and have the necessary experience and skills to operate the boat. It involves hiring a captain and crew to sail your boat to its destination. The cost of crewing is calculated based on the distance traveled, the size of the boat, and the number of crew members needed.

Here is a sample breakdown of the costs involved in crewing a 40-foot boat:

Cost Item	Cost Range
Crew Members	$500 - $1,500 per day
Fuel	$200 - $500 per day
Food and Accommodation	$100 - $300 per day
Total	$800 - $2,300 per day

Detailed Comparison of The Three Methods of Boat Transport

Below is a detailed comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of road transport, boat shipping, and crewing.

Choose road transport if you're moving the boat within the same country

It involves loading the boat onto a trailer and towing it using a truck. The cost of road transport depends on the distance traveled, the size of the boat, and the type of trailer used.

Pros:

• Can be more cost-effective for shorter distances
• Allows for more control over the transportation process
• Can be faster than shipping

Cons:

• Limited to land-based routes
• May require special permits or escorts for oversized loads
• Can be more expensive for longer distances

Choose boat shipping if you're moving the boat overseas

Boat shipping is for transporting boats overseas or across large bodies of water. It involves loading the boat onto a cargo ship and transporting it to the destination port. The cost of shipping depends on the distance traveled, the size of the boat, and the shipping company used.

Pros:

• Can transport boats across large bodies of water
• Can be more cost-effective for longer distances
• Allows for more time to prepare the boat for transport

Cons:

• Can be slower than road transport
• Limited to ports and water-based routes
• May require additional fees for loading and unloading the boat

Choose crewing if you want to save money

Crewing is a less common option for transporting boats, but it can be a good choice and is actually the most affordable option for those who want to sail their boat to its destination. It involves hiring a crew to sail the boat to the destination port. The cost of crewing depends on the distance traveled, the size of the boat, and the experience of the crew.

Pros:

• Allows for an adventurous journey
• Can be a good option for those who want to sail their boat anyway
• Can be more cost-effective for shorter distances

Cons:

• Can be more expensive for longer distances
• Requires experienced crew members
• Can be affected by weather conditions and other factors

Factors Influencing the Cost of Transporting a 40-Foot Boat

Distance and the route, boat size and weight, season and timing, and additional expenses for storage are several factors that can affect the overall cost of transporting your boat.

Distance and the route can impact the overall costs of boat transport

In general, the longer the distance, the more you can expect to pay for transportation. The route can also play a role in the cost, as some routes may require more permits or escorts, which can add to the overall cost.

The boat size and weight can influence the cost of boat transport

Technically larger boats will require more specialized equipment and may also require more permits and escorts, which can add to the cost. The weight of the boat can also impact the cost, as heavier boats may require more fuel and more specialized equipment to transport.

The season and timing can also affect the overall cost of boat transport

The season and timing of your boat transport can also play a role in the overall cost. During peak season, which is typically from May to September, you can expect to pay more for transportation. If you need your boat transported on short notice, you may also pay more for the service.

Additional expenses can also alter the overall costs of boat transport

If you are transporting your boat via road, you may need to obtain permits and pay for tolls and fuel. If you are shipping your boat, there may be fees for loading and unloading, as well as customs fees if you are transporting your boat internationally.

Other additional expenses might include the following:

Costs for storing your boat after transport

Some storage facilities offer indoor or outdoor storage options, and prices may vary depending on the type of storage you choose. To find out the cost of different boat storage options, you can try reading this article.

When choosing a storage facility, you may need to consider the security and accessibility of the facility. You want to ensure that your boat is safe and that you can easily access it when needed. Some storage facilities may also offer additional services such as maintenance and cleaning, which can add to the overall cost.

Costs for container storage

The cost of a container will depend on the size of your boat and the type of container you choose. Some containers may be more expensive than others, depending on their features and level of protection.

Perhaps consider the level of protection your boat requires. Your boat must be protected from the elements and any potential damage during transportation. Some containers may also offer additional features such as climate control and ventilation, which can also add to the overall cost.