Transporting a yacht & boat overseas can seem daunting, but with careful planning, it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re relocating your vessel, buying a yacht abroad, or attending an international event, understanding the process ensures a smooth and stress-free shipment.
1. Choosing the Right Shipping Method
There are 4 main ways to ship a yacht & boat:
Container Shipping: Ideal for smaller yacht & boat, usually up to 40ft. The vessel is loaded into a container, offering maximum protection from weather and damage during transit.
Flat Rack Shipping: For oversized yacht and boat that won’t fit into a standard container, flat racks provide an open-sided container to secure the vessel safely during transport.
Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO): Suitable for larger yacht and boat that can be driven or towed onto a specialised ship. This method is often more cost-effective for bigger vessels but provides slightly less protection than container shipping.
LOLO for Large Yachts: When you book your yacht & boat on a cargo ship using LOLO, you reserve a dedicated space and the vessel is lifted on and off by cranes, providing flexibility for large or unusually shaped vessels.
2. Preparing Your Yacht & Boat Preparation is key to a safe journey. Before shipping your yacht & boat:
Clean and Inspect: Remove all personal belongings and ensure the vessel is thoroughly cleaned to comply with customs regulations.
Secure Loose Items: Remove or fasten equipment, cover delicate parts, and check that sails, masts, or propellers are protected.
Documentation: Have all necessary papers ready, including proof of ownership, insurance, and customs forms.
Step 3: Gather Documentation
Ensure all paperwork is ready to avoid customs delays:
Proof of ownership
Insurance documents
Shipping and customs forms
4. Consider Insurance
Even with careful handling, accidents can happen. Marine insurance is essential to protect your yacht & boat against damage, loss, or theft during transit.
5. Choosing a Shipping Partner
Selecting a reliable shipping company is vital. Look for providers that offer:
International coverage and port-to-port shipping
Expertise in customs clearance and documentation
Secure handling and storage for your yacht & boat
Flexible options, including shared container services for smaller vessels
6. Track and Receive Your Vessel
Once shipped, your provider will offer updates on your yacht & boat’s journey. Inspect the vessel upon arrival and report any damages immediately.
Final Thoughts
Shipping a yacht & boat doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With careful preparation, proper documentation, and the right logistics partner, your vessel can reach its destination safely and efficiently. Whether it’s a small boat or a luxury yacht, planning ahead ensures a smooth journey and peace of mind. Trans Global Logistics UK Limited, International Shipping & Logistics Company with 30 years of experience, will be able to offers several services for your Yacht and Boat Transport / Customs Clearance / Import and UK Vehicle Registration to confidently support your shipment in either Import or Export for any type of equipment. Contact us at Trans Global Logistics UK Limited – bizdev@tglog.co.uk – phone 07833 410 281 www.tglog.co.uk