Find out how much it costs to ship your boat.
How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Boat in 2025? A Comprehensive Guide
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Boat?
If you’re buying, selling, or relocating a vessel, you may be asking the key question: “What is the cost to ship a boat?” The answer depends on several factors, including distance, size, transport method, and pickup/delivery logistics. Whether you’re planning a coast-to-coast move or an overseas voyage, understanding these variables will help you budget effectively.
Pro tip: try our Boat Shipping Cost Calculator to get an instant estimate tailored to your vessel and route.
Average Cost to Ship a Boat
Generally, domestic boat shipping costs range between $2.00 to $6.00 per mile, depending on the route and transport type. For short distances under 100 miles, you might pay closer to $2-$3 per mile. For longer trips over 1,000 miles, the per-mile rate tends to decrease slightly.
| Distance | Average Cost Estimate |
|---|---|
| Under 100 miles | $200 – $500 |
| 100 – 1,000 miles | $500 – $5,000 |
| Over 1,000 miles | $1,500 – $15,000+ |
Factors That Affect Boat Shipping Costs
- Boat Size and Weight: Larger boats require special permits and equipment. Oversized boats often need escort vehicles and additional planning.
- Distance: As expected, the farther the distance, the higher the overall cost.
- Route Accessibility: Remote marinas or off-road locations may add to the cost.
- Transport Method: Overland transport is more common within the U.S., while international shipping might involve container transport or transport on the deck of a cargo ship.
- Seasonality: Prices may increase during peak seasons like spring and early summer.
- Insurance: Comprehensive marine transport insurance is highly recommended and can add a few hundred dollars.
Cost to Ship a Boat Across Country
A popular route many boat owners ask about is the cost to ship a boat across the country. For example, moving a 26-foot boat from Florida to California could cost anywhere from $3,000 to $7,500, depending on the trailer setup, route, and logistics.
Cost to Ship a Boat from Florida to California
Florida is a major hub for boat sales, making this one of the most requested routes. For boats under 30 feet, the cost to ship from Florida to California typically ranges from $3,500 to $6,500. Oversized boats with special transport requirements could push this cost beyond $10,000.
International Shipping: Cost to Ship a Boat Across the Atlantic
If you’re relocating a yacht to Europe or bringing a vessel stateside, you might be wondering, “How much does it cost to ship a boat across the Atlantic?” International shipping can vary widely, but expect:
- Smaller Boats (under 30 feet): $6,000 – $12,000
- Mid-size Boats (30-50 feet): $10,000 – $25,000
- Large Yachts (50+ feet): $25,000 – $100,000+
These estimates include loading/unloading, customs paperwork, and marine transport insurance. Specialized carriers like Sevenstar or Peters & May often handle these transatlantic routes.
Additional Services That Affect Pricing
- Shrink wrapping: Helps protect your boat during transport; adds $10–$20 per foot.
- Haul-out and launch fees: Charged by marinas at both pickup and delivery ends.
- Crane service: Required for larger boats without trailers.
- Storage fees: May apply if your boat can’t be delivered immediately.
Tips for Reducing Boat Transport Costs
- Book in advance to secure better rates.
- Be flexible with pickup and drop-off dates.
- Use a trailer if possible to reduce costs.
- Compare quotes from vetted transporters via platforms like Yachtlify Transport or uShip.
Conclusion
The cost to ship a boat depends on multiple variables, including size, destination, and method. Whether you’re moving a runabout across the state or a yacht across the ocean, understanding your options helps avoid surprises. If you’re looking for a tailored quote, use a boat transport marketplace to compare trusted carriers and get competitive pricing for your route and vessel.
Common Questions:
- How much does it cost to ship a boat 500 miles? — Around $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the vessel and route.
- Can I ship my boat with personal items onboard? — Not usually. Most carriers prohibit this due to insurance policies.
- What is the cheapest way to ship a boat? — Overland transport with your own trailer, if road legal, is often the most cost-effective method.