There are some estimates that will give an idea of the cost to ship a boat to Europe, with prices ranging from a few hundred dollars to as much as $1,000 per foot (based on the length of the yacht). But the best way to find the cost is to do a bit of comparison shopping with three or four shipping-service companies. Fill out a simple form that gives size and make of the boat, along with the boat’s present location and intended location. In a matter of minutes, or a few hours, you can have an exact price.

But there is much more to determining the cost to ship a boat to Europe than just what it will cost to have the boat on the roll on/roll off deck or in a container. The price from a U.S. dock, for example, to a European court is just part of the expense. Anyone planning to ship a boat to Europe should also consider land transportation from the original location, port and dock charges, insurance, and storage and land transportation on arrival in Europe.

There is another factor to consider when thinking about the cost to ship a boat to Europe. Several companies can offer a one-price-fits-all number that takes your boat from its present location to your possession. This may be the most economical way to go. Not only that but you may also want to look at a few shipping methods – roll on/roll off, enclosed container, flat rack, etc.

Anyone considering the cost to ship a boat to Europe should also think about the growth in the industry in recent years. Competition has lowered prices somewhat and it is possible to find a company that will offer a very low cost. But it may be better to choose a slightly higher quote from a company with long experience. A wise boat owner compares the shipping cost to the value of the craft being shipped. If the complete cost of transportation and delivery is very low in comparison to the boat’s value, you may not be getting the best service.

Roll on/roll off shipping is generally the least expensive option. With experienced, reliable shipping services using roll on/roll off, your cost to ship a boat to Europe may be considerably less than flat rack container or other forms of shipping. But when choosing what is commonly known as RoRo, make sure that you are assured of the security and protection you desire. Boats shipped roll on/roll off will be protected from rain, sun and sea spray. But make sure you have liability insurance as well as coverage for your craft as well.

One other factor to consider when figuring the cost to ship a boat to Europe: roll on/roll off shipping does not allow for sending personal items as part of the freight. If you provide for individual container shipping you can include items in the container as part of the package.

Boating is a favorite outdoor activity for many people. Buying a boat isn’t inexpensive and you won’t be interested in buying a new boat when you have to relocate to Europe. You should really think about shipping your boat to Europe when you are moving. Now, many auto transport companies provide boat shipping quotes to Europe and they safely ship your boats to the destination of your choice. With the advancements in the shipping technology and equipments, it is possible to ship a boat of any shape, weight, and size.

Once you have decided that you want to ship your boat, you should start looking for shipping companies that have the ability to ship a boat overseas. You should be careful with the choice because many auto transport companies that ship cars may not provide boat shipping, especially if your boat has specific needs. You should get boat shipping quotes to Europe from at least three international shipping companies that have relevant experience in shipping boats. It is crucial that you find the right moving company to do the shipping because damages caused to boat while shipping may be very expensive and boat shipping requires expertise.

The boat you own must be prepared for shipping and this must be done by an experienced boat yard. You can also prepare your boat for shipping under the supervision of a licensed marine surveyor. All the hatches must be secured tightly so that wind driven water will not damage the boat. Everything present in the boat cabin should be secured and the locker doors must be locked. You should never keep loose items in cabin because while shipping, loose items can get damaged easily. Batteries in your boat must be removed and cables must be tied avoiding any kind of contact.

Before loading your boat for shipping, you should inspect the boat for damages. This must be done by a professional who knows well about boats. The companies that provide boat shipping quotes to Europe will come to your home to inspect the home. A bill of lading will be provided after inspecting the boat. You should keep this document safe because when you pickup your boat at the destination, you should use the bill of lading to check for possible damages.

You should shrink wrap your boat to avoid any damage that can be caused by weather conditions. This will protect your boat while shipping it. When you have boat cradles, it is better to ship your boats in cradles because they are designed exclusively to hold the boat in place. You can also use your own trailer to ship boats internationally. The moving companies that ship boats to Europe won’t assume any responsibility if the integrity of your cradle or trailer is damaged.

The companies that give you boat shipping quotes to Europe must have proper license to ship boats. You should also make sure that you get marine insurance options so that you can find an option that is affordable for you. Also, you should ask the shipping company to help you with the paperwork for export and import of boats.