State-to-State Boat Shipping Across America

Whether you're relocating your vessel for the season, purchasing a boat from out of state, or planning a coastal adventure, our state-to-state boat transport service makes it easy to move your boat anywhere across the United States. We specialize in connecting boat owners across all 50 states—handling everything from center consoles and sailboats to oversized yachts and custom builds with proper permits and professional carriers.

Every state has its own highway regulations, permit requirements, and DOT restrictions. That's why we've built dedicated pages for state-to-state routes covering all possible combinations—providing practical insights into permits, route planning, seasonal considerations, and pricing examples—so you can make informed decisions and get a quote tailored to your specific origin and destination states.

Our team coordinates with state DOT offices, permitting agencies, and specialized carriers to ensure smooth transport from pickup to delivery. Whether you're crossing the Great Lakes region, traversing the Gulf Coast states, or shipping from coast to coast, we handle all multi-state permit requirements and route planning.

Explore the state combinations using the route finder below to learn more about specific state-to-state routes. Select any origin and destination state to view detailed permit requirements, typical transit times, and rate information. We provide custom routing nationwide and will build a plan that fits your timeline, vessel type, and budget.

How State-to-State Boat Transport Works

Choosing the Right Route and Equipment

Route planning starts with dimensions. Length, beam, height on the carrier, and weight determine which highways are viable and whether pilot cars are needed. For tall sailboats, we often remove masts to reduce transport height and avoid overhead obstructions. For heavy cruisers and sportfish yachts, we match specialized hydraulic trailers or air-ride equipment to minimize stress on the hull. Our dispatch checks construction zones, seasonal restrictions, and bridge work before confirming pick-up windows so there are no surprises mid-route.

Permits, Escorts, and Clearances

Oversize permitting varies by state and sometimes by city. If your beam exceeds standard width limits or your loaded height is significant, we apply for the proper travel permits in advance. Some jurisdictions require daytime-only travel or restrict movement during holidays and rush hours. When pilot cars or police escorts are necessary, we book them for the exact segments where they are mandated. This allows us to maintain momentum and keep your delivery on schedule while adhering to safety regulations.

Marina and Yard Coordination

Most city moves begin and end at marinas or boatyards with travel lifts, cranes, or forklift capabilities. We coordinate lift times, confirm cradle compatibility, and verify yard access for the carrier's turning radius. If a custom cradle is needed, we can fabricate or advise on specifications so your vessel is properly supported. Communication with local facilities is central to minimizing lay time and ensuring the boat is ready when the truck arrives.

Example Ports & Marinas We Deliver To

We coordinate boat deliveries to hundreds of marinas, ports, and boatyards across the United States. Here are some example locations we frequently serve:

Don't see your marina listed? We work with facilities nationwide and can coordinate delivery to virtually any accessible location with proper lifting or launch equipment. Contact us with your specific marina or port, and we'll handle all the coordination.

Preparing Your Boat for Transport

Proper preparation reduces risk and helps keep your schedule on track. Before the carrier arrives, remove loose gear, canvas, isinglass, personal items, and electronics that are not permanently mounted. Secure cabin doors and hatches, drain water systems if recommended by your yard, and ensure batteries are either disconnected or set per yard guidance. For sailboats, coordinate mast unstepping, label all rigging, and pad contact points. For powerboats on lifts, verify sling points and discuss block placement with yard staff.

Insurance and Coverage

We match your shipment with vetted carriers who maintain appropriate cargo and liability coverage. You can also consult your marine insurance provider about overland transport endorsements, especially for high-value yachts or custom vessels. We provide carrier documents upon request and can list interested parties as needed for yard access or marina release forms.

What Influences Cost

Pricing reflects distance, dimensions, route complexity, permit requirements, and timing. Larger beams and taller profiles can increase costs because they limit routing options and may trigger escorts. Seasonal demand can also affect lead times and rates, especially during spring launches and fall haul-outs. We’re transparent about all line items—permits, pilot cars, layovers, lift fees—and we design quotes that reflect your exact scenario rather than generic averages.

• Dimensions: length, beam, height on carrier, and weight.
• Origin/destination access: marina hours, crane availability, and approach roads.
• Permits and escorts: state-by-state requirements and holiday restrictions.
• Seasonal timing: peak periods and regional weather considerations.
• Special handling: cradles, mast unstep/step, shrink wrapping, or padding.

Delivery Day: What to Expect

On delivery, the driver will park in a safe staging area approved by the yard or marina. If a travel lift or crane is scheduled, yard personnel will guide the process while the carrier stands by. We recommend having a representative present to verify condition, confirm any accessories, and sign the bill of lading. After splash or offload, plan a brief inspection and, if needed, reinstallation of antennas, canvas, or rigging.

Common Vessels We Move

We regularly transport center consoles, cuddy cabins, wake boats, pontoon boats, sailboats with single or multiple masts, catamarans, trawlers, and sportfish yachts. For unusual hull forms or custom builds, we review cradle plans and lifting guidance before we confirm dates. The more detail you can provide—brand, model, year, and any modifications—the more precisely we can plan the route, support points, and tie-down strategy.

Get a Tailored State-to-State Plan

Every state has unique regulations, permit requirements, and highway restrictions that affect boat transport. Share your origin state, destination state, and exact boat measurements, and we'll map the most efficient route, handle all necessary permits, coordinate escorts if required, and provide a detailed timeline. Whether you're moving across neighboring states or coast-to-coast, we'll show you how different routes, seasonal weather, and state regulations impact timing and cost so you can make an informed decision.