With All Taut we want your boat safe and secure for its entire shipment.
Our drivers are licensed, insured, qualified professionals, ready to provide the high quality service that you deserve.
All payments are due at time of delivery, with 50% deposit due at contract signing. If there is a delay in the delivery due to our clients than there will be additional charges.
All Taut does not accept liability for weakness or dry rot induced damages that occur while shipping. If the boat is not prepared properly at the time of shipment then it will be shipped as is and the owner will accept any responsibility for damages that incur. All Taut recommends having yourself or a qualified boat yard oversee the preparations.
Please follow our guidelines and shipping guide below to ensure your boat will be ready for transport and shipment in the best possible condition.
Transportation height is 13' 6 for legal shipment over the road. If your boat is higher than 13' 6 additional freight charges will apply. When choosing a marina or boat yard please ensure it has at least a 14' height clearance and no electrical lines or other wires overhanging the approach. Trees can also do damage to your boat out of the water. Take trees or other overhangs into account when looking at your approach. If there is no clear access the carrier will not be responsible for any damage that is caused by the obstructions.
At the time of pick-up the driver will do an inspection of the outside of the boat only. We will note the condition of the boat at the time of pick up and then you or your representative will also sign as to the boats condition. At the time of delivery we will inspect the boat again and your representative or you will sign as tot the condition of the boat upon delivery. Any damage you see must be noted on the bill of lading upon delivery.
Simple Steps:
- Remove or secure anything loose on the deck.
- Secure anchor and remove from deck
- Secure batteries and disconnect.
- Drain fuel and water tanks including the bilge. To prevent freezing, remove water from all water systems, air conditioners, pumps and elsewhere. Fuel or water is not permitted in the tanks while shipping.
- Secure and stow all loose gear. If it is not bolted down and you would like it shipped with your boat then it needs to be completely secured. All Taut does not ship household goods. Pleases ensure only boat gear is on your boat. You will take responsibility for all damage caused by loose gear onboard the boat.
- Do not give your key to the driver. Please keep your key with you or your representative.
- Seal your boat. A wooden boat is susceptible to dry out. Please use a coat of sealant that your boat requires.
- Expect a normal amount of dirt from the road on the boat at time of delivery.
Shrink Wrap
You must remove all canvas covers. Canvas covers tend to tear and fly off or beat against the boat during transportation. If you choose to keep the canvas covers on your boat you will assume full responsibility for any damage. If the shrink wrap tears the driver will try to repair it; however if the shrink wrap is torn or damaged beyond normal repair it will be removed to avoid damage to the boat.
Trailers
If you are shipping on your own cradle or trailer inspect it carefully. While doing the inspection take into account the rollers, frame, padding, and anything on your trailer or cradle. Look for loose bolts, missing parts or weakness in the frame or any kind. Any damage caused to your boat by the trailer breaking will not be the responsibility of your carrier.
Dinghy
With shipping of dinghies, please make sure they are well padded and secured for shipment. Dinghies must be removed from davits.
External Extras
Transportation causes vibrations that can cause antennas, anchor lights, propellers, flags, and external equipment to fall off. You must remove all electronics, radar, horns, propellers, hailers, flags, flag masts, lights, etc. After removal, please pack these items and secure them.
Hatches
Weather is sure to happen during shipment of your boat. Please close and seal any and all hatches so rain, snow, or hail does not get into your boat. Hatches should be sealed and either tied or taped from the outside. All Taut is not responsible for damage if hatches blow off during shipment.
Sailboats
To ensure that your sailboat gets to its destination without damage the mast must have been removed of all riggings, winches, wind indicators, and lights. Tie downs on the mast will create some abrasions. Carpet or padding should be placed on the area of the tie down to prevent wear. Any damage created by improper mast preparation will not be the responsibility of All Taut. The mast will be secured on the space provided by the boat carrier in the trailer. Please remove life lines, bow and stern pulpits, and stanchions.
Center board sailboats must have their board secured and ready to stay up during shipment. Some separation may occur on Keel Sailboats where the hull joins the keel. That damage is not structural, it is only where the filer or paint is cracking at the joint. Racing or light built sailboats can have some hull indentations from the support pads. However, the indentations usually are gone after the boat is back in water.
Powerboats
You must remove all propellers, antennas, lights, flags, flag masts, outriggers, etc. Any damage that is incurred because these were not removed will not be the responsibility of All Taut. You need to remove any overhanging glass or Plexiglas overhanging the flying bridge. If the flying bridge is low enough to ship with it on then you will need to build a cradle for it. It will be shipped on the cockpit or forward deck area. Please make sure your glass or Plexiglas is padded and secured for the shipment. Each area touching the deck or railing needs to be amply padded. Remove, pack, and secure your electronics and valuables before shipment.
If you are unsure of any of these instructions please contact All Taut. Any of our staff will be happy to help you with your shipment questions.
