Boat Transport and Shipping Service Boat on a Cradle Transport Services
Boat on a Cradle Transport Services
Boat on a Cradle Transport
Services Nationwide
Moving a boat on a cradle requires planning, the right equipment, and experienced specialists who understand how these boats are built. We Will Transport It handles cradle boat transport for sailboats, yachts, and custom vessels that can’t ride on standard trailers. From properly securing the hull to coordinating permits and route clearance, every detail is handled to protect your boat’s safety during transportation. Whether the move is local or cross-country, our boat on a cradle transport services are set up to keep your vessel stable and supported, and delivered unharmed. Need a reliable boat transport? Call (877) 330-0051 and speak to a We Will Transport It boat expert.
Boat on A Cradle
Are you looking to move a boat on a boat cradle? We Will Transport It is here to help! Transporting a boat on a cradle can seem like a big job, so it's important to choose a heavy equipment company experienced in boat transport on cradles. With over ten years of experience moving boats and heavy gear, we know how to handle your vessel safely. Whether you need to ship your boat on a cradle across the country or even to another country, we have the skills and equipment to make it happen. Count on We Will Transport It to make your boat moving experience easy and worry-free!
What exactly is a boat cradle?
A boat cradle is a strong support frame specifically designed to bear the jill of the boat when the vessel is out of the water. The boat cradles can be made out of wood and metal, these cradles give the boat a steady resting place. Unlike traditional trailers, cradles are specifically designed to match the shape and weight distribution of your boat. This individuality helps prevent any damage to the hull while it’s being stored, repaired, or transported.
Cradle Transport
Shipping a boat on a cradle
Moving a boat that is on a cradle involves a few important steps.
- First, the support frame, known as a cradle, needs to be made from hardy material, such as treated wood or metal to withstand ocean travel. It’s crucial to make sure that the boat is securely attached to the cradle to ensure it stays safe during the journey.
- The boat and its cradle are then placed onto a flat platform, which is either loaded onto a ship for international shipping or designed for a method called roll-on/roll-off (RORO) where the boat drives straight onto the transport vessel.
- Before the boat sets off, any exterior items like arches, antennas, and hatches must be either removed or carefully secured to avoid damage. Additionally, it’s important to make sure that all windows are closed and taped shut for protection during the transport.
When transporting a barge, having the right number of axles on the trailer is important for safety. The exact number of axles you need depends on how heavy the barge is and the weight limits for the roads you’ll be using. Heavier barges need more axles to help support the weight and make sure that it stays within the legal limits for safe driving. When placing your reservation for barge transport, it is important to give the specific dimensions of the barge including the weight.
Cradle Transport vs. Trailer Transport (Boats)
Unlike methods that might not be as stable, such as slings or simple trailers, a boat cradle is shaped to fit the boat’s hull perfectly. Boat cradles are really important for things like storing boats in the off-season, doing maintenance work at a shipyard, and moving boats with a forklift. Cradles help keep the boat in great condition for a long time.
Cradle Transport vs Trailer Hauling
| Cradle Transport | Trailer Hauling | |
|---|---|---|
|
Purpose
Purpose
|
Provides stable support for storage, maintenance, and transport
Cradle TransportProvides stable support for storage, maintenance, and transport
|
Mainly for towing boats on roads.
Trailer HaulingMainly for towing boats on roads.
|
|
Support Type
Support Type
|
Cradles fit the hull perfectly and distribute weight evenly
Cradle TransportCradles fit the hull perfectly and distribute weight evenly
|
Trailers support key points, usually with adjustable bunks or rollers
Trailer HaulingTrailers support key points, usually with adjustable bunks or rollers
|
|
Best For
Best For
|
Great for long-term storage, shipyard work and delicate hull protection
Cradle TransportGreat for long-term storage, shipyard work and delicate hull protection
|
Road transport and frequent launching
Trailer HaulingRoad transport and frequent launching
|
|
Safety
Safety
|
Very stable with minimal risk of shifting
Cradle TransportVery stable with minimal risk of shifting
|
Stable when tied down
Trailer HaulingStable when tied down
|
|
Setup Complexity
Setup Complexity
|
Requires setup and careful placement under the boat
Cradle TransportRequires setup and careful placement under the boat
|
Load, strap and go
Trailer HaulingLoad, strap and go
|
|
Cost
Cost
|
Usually lower cost for storage but may need special transport for longer distances
Cradle TransportUsually lower cost for storage but may need special transport for longer distances
|
One-time purchase + towing costs
Trailer HaulingOne-time purchase + towing costs
|
Professional Boat Cradle Transport
Cost Factors for Moving a Boat on a Cradle
The cost of transporting a boat on a cradle can vary depending on several important factors. Understanding these can help you plan your boat transport on a cradle more effectively:
- Boat size and weight: The length, beam, height, and overall weight of your boat while secured on the cradle are major factors. Larger boats require more careful handling and specialized equipment, which can increase the cost of transport.
- Distance of transport: The number of miles your boat will travel on the cradle directly impacts pricing. Longer distances typically mean higher costs for overland or long-distance boat transport on a cradle.
- Seasonal demand: Moving a boat on a cradle during peak seasons, like spring and summer, may be more expensive due to higher demand for boat transport services.
- Additional equipment needs: Some moves require forklifts, cranes, or other specialized equipment. These services incur additional costs, but our team can help determine exactly what’s needed for a safe boat cradle shipping experience.
At We Will Transport It, we provide transparent quotes and expert guidance so your boat transport on a cradle is safe, efficient, and worry-free.
