Which boat-transport companies do you trust?

Wolfeboro

Finally, I think that I have found a C-Dory Cruiser 16 east of the Mississippi—just east, in fact—it’s a mile or two from the eastern shore of the Mississippi. I put out a request for shipping bids on uShip.com and got nothing. This morning I listed on CitizenShipper.com and quickly received about ten bids ranging from roughly $2400 to $1200 for the thousand-mile haul from the Mississippi to the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. The bidders range from that big outfit in Florida to some one-man-band drivers with heavy-duty pickup trucks.
Anybody in particular you trust to haul your boat? In a pinch, my Tacoma and I can make the trip, but wear-and-tear plus absence from my work (in a church) during the high season in the Lakes Region make that option less desirable. The biggest (and most expensive) vendor seems the most tried-and-true option.
As it sits out in Illinois, the 2004 Cruiser seems to be in good shape, and a reputable dealer out there is conducting a survey to verify that assessment for hull, motor, and trailer. I’d like it to still be in good shape when it arrives in the Lake Winnipesaukee area.
Any advice you might have would be appreciated.
Thanks.
—Rick

rogerbum

Wolfeboro · Posted: Wed Jun 21, 2023 6:40 pm Post subject:

Thanks! Good advice. No hurry, so doubling up could work. Your trip makes mine seem minor! I’ll check out your shipper. Thanks.

—Rick

thataway · Posted: Wed Jun 21, 2023 11:41 pm Post subject:

I have had only one boat shipped, from Great Lakes to Pensacola. It was back some time, but only $1.00 a mile. The shipper had a hydraulic trailer, and called me every 8 hours or so. He ws licensed and bonded. I also put my own insurance in effect and let the company know that the boat was being shipped, The boat arrived in excellent condition. Some of the shrink wrap had come loose (Winter up there) and driver called and had the materials to fix it.

There is an old saying, never trust a survey which was hired by or at the recommendation of the boat dealer.

Welcome to C Dory ownership!

Wolfeboro · Posted: Thu Jun 22, 2023 1:32 pm Post subject:

You’re right about that. I hired an independent dealer across the Mississippi from the seller. So far, seems straight arrow.

Thanks!

A lot of sharks in the ocean of boat transport, though. Checking their references almost has me gassing up the Tacoma for a 2000-mile round trip.

—Rick