Sailboat Transport from Key Largo, Florida to Ingleside, Texas

 

Christine Transport - Sailboat Transportation in Key Largo, FL

Yeehaw!  Load ‘em up n’ ship ‘em out!  Christine Transport had to shift gears from sandals and bathing suits in The Florida Keys to boots and cowboy hats in the Corpus Christi area in Texas.  We picked up a 31’ Elizabethan Sloop Sailboat in Key Largo, FL for transport and delivered it to Ingleside, TX.



Sailboat Safe & Secure in Transit from Florida to Texas.



Arriving in Key Largo, we secured the sailboat on our custom sailboat transport trailer – designed specifically for safe, secure trailer with custom padded boat supports and tied down with ratcheting tie-down straps (with carpet pieces placed under the straps to protect the boat to prevent chaffing during transport).  This particular mast was secured at the side of the trailer – but they normally ride on top of the boat during transportation (the marina we picked up at did not have a safe way to place the mast on the top of the boat, so we transported it on the side).



Christine Transport With Another Happy Delivery in Texas!

 

We transported this big beautiful sailboat all the way up Florida, a little bit through Alabama, a splash through Mississippi, then through Louisiana, hit some rain and then delivered the sailboat in Texas.  Great trip!  No problems at all.  We stopped along the way and checked the load several times during the transportation process, checking on straps, tightening any loose ends and making sure the ride was as smooth as possible.



Christine Transport Removing The Transport Straps For The Delivery Boat Lift.

 

Traveling through Texas (we are from Florida and even thought it was extra hot!), we made our boat delivery in Ingleside (just outside of Corpus Christi).  We really loved the scenery and surrounding areas, and were happy to bring another boat home safe and sound to another happy boat owner!




Another Successful Sailboat Delivery!

 
Here at Christine Transport, it is important to us that your boat arrive home safe and sound, no matter whom you chose to deliver your boat.  You may pay a little more for a professional transporter, but your boat will be insured and you will have legal recourse if any accidents happen.  If you would like to check up on your transporter, and research their legal transport status (you can request this legal transport information from any reputable boat transporter). Two things you will need to know to make sure your boat transporter is a legal transporter, you can request their Certificate of Insurance (which protects your boat) and you can request the transporter's DOT Authority. Christine Transport provides a copy of our commercial transport insurance with every boat transportation quote we provide and you can also find it on our boat transporter website's legal information page. 

We have fresh new transport equipment that is safe, reliable and ready to haul your boat!  For more information about our new ride, feel free to visit our previous article: Retiring The Boat Transporter Work Horse. 

If you need a free boat transportation quote – just drop us a line! Christine Transport would be honored to have the opportunity to provide you with professional, reliable boat transport service. We are fully licensed and insured to keep your boat protected. Want to know what our previous boat transport customers think about us? Check out our boat transportation reviews from our happy customers at our Boat Transporter Review page!

Boat Transporter Homepage

- Christine Barber -
Christine Transport
Info@ChristineTransport.com
http://www.christinetransport.com/
Free Boat Transport Quotes: 352-553-8637
“Get your boat to where the fun is."

Friend us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BoatTransporter

Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChristineTransport

Follow us on Twitter: http://http//www.twitter.com/BoatShipper

Retiring The Boat Transporter Work Horse

It is true as the old saying goes “All good things must come to an end.” We are happy to have put in enough service to hang another transport truck on the wall for duty served. That is a total of 312,000 miles under the belt in successful transportation!

It is also true the old saying “He who rejects change is the architect of decay.” So along with this turn-around, Christine Transport has a nice brand new shiny truck that it is just itching to get broken in! We like to keep everything in tip-top shape here for when you need to transport your boat across country, across state lines or across the county – having dependable equipment is just another reassurance we offer so that your vessel will get there safe and sound. If parts, pieces, or entire sets of equipment need to be replaced, we’re on top of it. The best thing a transporter can offer is safe travel (hey, isn’t that what we do?), and you can’t have that with faulty or broken-down equipment. We work hard to keep all of our company parts running smoothly like a well-oiled machine.

Christine Transport New Truck - Loaded with boat and customer trailer.

Be sure that your baby gets there safe and sound, check up on your transporter (no matter whom you choose) and research their legal transport status (you can request this information from any reputable boat transporter). Two major things to make sure your transporter is a legal transporter, you can request their Certificate of Insurance (which protects your boat) and you can request their DOT Authority. Protect yourself and your boat – when you go with illegitimate transporters, you can end up with a damaged or even stolen boat on your hands with little legal power to do anything about it (for not choosing/researching a legitimate transporter). For more information on how to select the best boat transporter for you and protect your investment, check out our previous article: Avoid Being Victim of Illegal Boat Transporters, complete with full instructions and links on how to go about checking a transporter's DOT Authority.

Want to know where in the heck is Christine Transport? Check out our boat transport trip in New York! (Yes – sailboat transport pictures included – and was this one a doozy!)

If you need a free boat transportation quote – feel free to drop us a line! Christine Transport would love to have the opportunity to provide you with professional, reliable boat transport service. We are fully licensed and insured to keep your boat protected. Want to know what our previous boat transport customers think about us? Check out our boat transporter reviews from our happy customers at our Boat Transporter Review page!

- Christine Barber -
Christine Transport
Info@ChristineTransport.com
http://www.christinetransport.com/
Free Boat Transport Quotes: 352-553-8637
“Get your boat to where the fun is."

Friend us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BoatTransporter
Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChristineTransport
Follow us on Twitter: http://http//www.twitter.com/BoatShipper

The Godfather of Boat Transportation

Hey! Whatsa Matta You? Christine Transport is in New York – that’s what! Just coming back from our boat transport trip from Lake Tahoe, California and Seattle Washington, we are shooting across the United States for some more boat hauls.

Sailboat transportation under way!

Going back to New York always brings back great memories for me since I grew up there, it is always nice to go back and visit.

On this trip we picked up a Pearson 302 Sailboat in Ithica and transported it to West Haverstraw.

West Haverstraw boat yard.

Although it was still cold this time of year, it was nice to be able to walk the marinas and get a good look at all of the boats – they seemed like they were just wanting to get out on the water again!

If you need a free boat transportation quote – hey, Fuggedaboutit! Christine Transport will take care of your sailboat or powerboat transportation with no problem! That’s because we treat you like old school family and want to get your boat there safe and sound. We are fully licensed and insured to keep your boat protected – and feel free to check out our boat transporter reviews from our happy customers.


- Christine Barber -
Christine Transport
Info@ChristineTransport.com
http://www.christinetransport.com/
Free Boat Transport Quotes: 352-553-8637
“Get your boat to where the fun is."

Friend us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BoatTransporter
Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChristineTransport
Follow us on Twitter: http://http//www.twitter.com/BoatShipper

Christine Transport - On the road again!

Sierra Mountains Boat Transportation, California

It is good to see the countryside again, and what is even better is knowing that the boating industry is really getting a wake-up call. we know that the marine industry was hit hard with the slumping economy, and followed in suit with the plummeting housing industry. (If people cannot pay their mortgage, they certainly were not making payments on luxury items like boats.)

The good news? That's the past.

Icy Stream, Sierra Mountain Range, California

Seeing a large influx of boat transportation requests due to boats changing hands in a wonderful change - and it allows us to keep doing what we love: Boat Transport.

Snow Drifts at Lake Tahoe

We were lucky enough to transport three gorgeous tenders (small ship to shore boats for mega yachts) to the port of Jacksonville, FL for wealthy overseas yacht owners. Two of these beautiful tenders were 23 feet in length and cost $158,000. The third tender was 27 foot and was at a market price of $177,000. Boat transporting is our specialty (of course) and we were happy to take these three into port and through customs to send them out on their way.

Mega Yacht Nova Spirit in the back is receiving the upscale tender

We also delivered a 23 foot tender made by Novurania, owner Robert Collada, to Seattle, Washington for Nova Spirit, a 40 meter (131 foot) mega yacht. Come rain or shine, we can deliver your boat in the fastest, and most importantly, safest manner possible. Snow? Ice? Still not enough to stop a boat delivery with Christine Transport. Sunny skies or snowy ground, we can still transport your boat to where it needs to be. We make sure to only transport in safe conditions and do not threaten the safety of the delivery - if conditions are too severe or extreme for safe delivery, we can work around it so that your boat arrives safe, sound and secure.

Tender delivery in Seattle, Washington

- Christine Barber -
Christine Transport
Info@ChristineTransport.com
http://www.christinetransport.com/
Free Boat Transport Quotes: 352-553-8637
“Get your boat to where the fun is."

Friend us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BoatTransporter
Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChristineTransport
Follow us on Twitter: http://http//www.twitter.com/BoatShipper

Spring Is In The Air - Dewinterizing Your Boat

Dewinterizing - Spring Fling Cleaning For Your Boat

• Legal
o Make sure that your registration is current.
o Check that your state numbers are legible and not suffering from wear.

• Equipment and Safety Materials
o Check ropes for rot and wear, replace if necessary, always keep an extra on board stowed away.
o Inspect bumpers are properly functioning and are free of cracking and punctures.
o Go over your flare kit, check expiration date (flare kits typically have a four-year expiry date) replace if necessary.
o Check life jackets over and do a count so you know how many you have that year (often times they may get lost or taken home on accident and you could find yourself short).
o Keep foul weather clothing (rain jackets, windbreakers, sweatshirts, etc) handy.
o Test electronics (GPS, Radio, Radar, Trolling Motor, AC, Generator, etc) for functionality.

• Stocking The Boat
o Keep a supply of towels on board of all sizes (from washcloth to beach/picnic size depending on available stowage), store in waterproof bag or container for added protection.
o For larger boats with sleep-over capabilities, spare hygiene products (deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, mini soaps, Q-tips, cotton balls, etc) are a great idea.
o Keep zip lock bags (all sizes), Tupperware or waterproof storage containers, even if it is just a small box of sandwich bags.
o For boats with kitchens, it is good to check the stock of cups, plates, bowls, tableware, glassware, etc for breakage and/or restocking.
o Throw in a waterproof disposable camera in case of “fun emergencies.”
o Pack a deck of cards if fishing gets slow.
o Restock tackle boxes.
o Check all rods and reels to be in proper working order.

• Pre-Launch Touch-ups
o Wash and wax the hull, scrub the decks, clean canvas, etc – make sure your baby sparkles when it hits the water.
o Interior cleaning, wash linens, curtains, scrub kitchens, service bathrooms.
o Give an extra shot of bathroom tank deodorizer.
o Clean out the livewell.
o Check spark plugs, brush up if necessary (it is a good idea to keep tools on board for this as corrosion can be an on-going problem, especially for saltwater boats).
o After winterization it is always a good idea to do test run your boat on dry land with a bonnet before going on your water run (nothing worse than packing up the crowd and having to come back home because of engine trouble, it’s a real bummer).
o Top off the gas tank, keep in mind water displacement.
o Check and change engine oil.

• Trailer Maintenance
o Lather up some fresh grease on the bearings.
o Check tire pressure for appropriate levels.
o Check hub seals.
o Tighten lug nuts.
o Electronics check (lights, brakes, etc).

• Water Bound
o Put on your life jackets and enjoy!


Stay safe out there on the water and practice responsible boating! Boating is a great opportunity to spend time with the family and is becoming a more affordable form of entertainment. You can even view our article about boating with pets on board and how to make the day an enjoyable one - Happy boating!




Christine Transport offers an easy-to-follow checklist for preparing your boat for travel and can be found at any time on our boat transport homepage. Also, check out our article especially for our lady boater enthusiasts! This is just another service we provide to help keep you informed to protect you and your valuables - every transport experience should be an enjoyable one!

- Mark Barber -
Christine Transport
Info@ChristineTransport.com
http://www.christinetransport.com/
Free Boat Transport Quotes: 352-553-8637
“Get your boat to where the fun is."

Friend us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BoatTransporter
Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChristineTransport
Follow us on Twitter: http://http//www.twitter.com/BoatShipper

Toronto, Canada Boat Delivery - Brrr was it cold!

I just delivered a Sailboat - a Catalina 320 from Riverside, New Jersey. Riverside is a small village suburb of Philadelphia. The Catalina is headed up to Toronto, Canada to one excited family. Their boy, Cameron, was such a great guy; we had to post a picture of him and his family on the boat transport blog. Pictured below is Cameron, his mom, Tara and her parents and that is her husband topside.

Safe and securely delivering a sailboat to Toronto, Canada

Thanks for the business - it is very much appreciated! Its nice to work with great people. Below I managed to get Cameron to pause long enough to pose in front of his new family boat.

Thanks, Cameron!

If you would like a free boat transport quote for your special baby, feel free to drop us a line (no pun intended), we are more than happy to answer any and all questions you may have! No matter whom you decide to use for transport, please feel free to view our information page on how to prepare your boat for travel - keep your investment safe when on the road!

Feel free to check out our previous article on transport brokers and if they are right for you.

Find out more about Christine Transport or peruse over our testimonials from past and repeat transport customers.



- Mark Barber -
Christine Transport
Info@ChristineTransport.com
http://www.christinetransport.com/
Free Boat Transport Quotes: 352-553-8637
“Get your boat to where the fun is."

Friend us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BoatTransporter
Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChristineTransport
Follow us on Twitter: http://http//www.twitter.com/BoatShipper

Avoid being a victim of illegal transporters



Go With A Professional Boat Transporter

When you choose an illegal boat transporter - who covers you in case of an accident like this?



We have been concerned about the rising number of complaints by consumers in regards to illegal transporters. Some of these complaints range from raising an eyebrow to raising lawsuits. We wanted to start out by giving some examples of the ramifications of selecting an unlicensed or uninsured driver to transport your goods and then with some precautions you can take to protect yourself and your property. It is always our recommendation - no matter whom you choose for your transport - that you select a boat transporter that is licensed and insured.

Our most recent complaint was by an elderly woman who put a call into us over the weekend. She was obviously distraught and very upset. The woman had arranged for an individual to move her powerboat across the country. Offering a good price compared to legal boat transporters, she gladly obliged and granted the marina permission to release the uninsured transporter the vessel. A few days into the trip he had not made any contact with her to set up a time to drop off the boat at the destination marina, so she gave him a call. He informed her that he had broken down on the side of the road due to an axle problem on his own personal trailer. He then proceeded to tell her that she was going to have to pay for repairs or he would put a hold on her boat sitting on the side of the road until she complied, also accruing lay-over fees for himself in the process. The woman couldn’t believe what she was hearing from this illegal transporter, and tried to explain to him that his faulty equipment was not her error nor should she pay for it (which we must say that we agree). He didn’t want to hear it and said he would just take the boat home if he had to for non-payment issues. She was so upset by the whole ordeal she had called us in desperation just to see what her legal rights were as a legitimate boat transporter. After asking her what the gentleman’s full name was, she did not know, she also didn’t know his license number or tag numbers on his personal truck. She called the Department of Transportation to help assist her in getting the boat back – and here is the kicker, since he was not a legal transporter, they had no authority to pursue him. It had then blossomed that she was going to have to attempt a long-distance legal battle with an individual (NOT a company or legal entity) she knew hardly anything about, and in addition, during that time he would be the one in possession of her property. We were greatly saddened that we could not offer her more assistance, it is one of the horrible ramifications of doing business with non-professionals. She had hardly any recourse and did not even know his whereabouts.

Another problem that consumers and transporters alike are dealing with is the on-coming popularity of uShip. uShip is an online organization that offers an auction-style marketplace for shipping and transport services. Consumers list their items for free and transporters bid on the transport job. uShip does not offer any protection in the form of a brokerage for either party, they just provide the communication services to do so - and claim no legal responsibility for the transport agreement. Being affiliated now with eBay, their website has grown. Often, illegal transporters will create uShip accounts and bid on jobs against professional transporters. Not paying for commercial insurance and liability insurance, the private runners do not have the overhead expense that legitimate transport companies do. This often results in private individuals out-bidding or “low balling” the commercial (aka: legal) runners. Consumers have the option to ask for the license and DOT numbers for the shippers bidding on their transport request, but often do not or do not know how to verify them on the DOT website to ensure they are up-to-date. (They technically can give you any set of jumbled numbers and claim they are legal transporters.) It is really up to the buyer to perform their due-diligence when it comes to their transporter. uShip does not offer this information for their consumers to readily find or how to make the best decision for their transport service requests. They also do not regulate their transport bidders in verifying their status with DOT or if they are fully licensed and insured to do so in a legal manner.  uShip does not have the power to do much to rectify any problems between the two parties since they are not a brokerage, and the only repercussion they can hold is to suspend or ban the transporter from their service after a problem has been brought to their attention. This does nothing to stop the illegitimate transporter to create a new account to scam again - not protecting either the consumer nor the transporter in these agreements. We recommend that if you must use uShip, to be sure to view how long the shipper’s account has been active and their transport feedback. This can speak volumes for the unawares customer - and you may also do search engine research to see if this shipper has been listed as a legitimate transporter or a scam artist. (Don't underestimate the power of good research before a purchase!) Beware of uShip and it's short-comings.

This also goes without saying as to what you would do if someone were in an accident with your property. Who would pay for the damages? Who is liable? Would you trust your boat, worth thousands of dollars, on the trailer of someone who could be no more than the person around the corner? If your goods were to be totally destroyed in an accident, does the transporter have cargo insurance to cover your loss? If in the event this happened, and you were to lose your commodity, you would be engaged in a lengthy legal process for recourse? If the illegal transporter has nothing to go after (they have no money and no property values), then you have nothing to go after and will ultimately be involved in a lawsuit that will get you nothing in return. In a legal sense, you would be held liable for allowing your load to go with such a transporter without verifying their legal transport status beforehand (which is public information offered on the DOT transport verification website).

So what can you as the consumer do to help protect yourself and your boat? No matter whom you decide to use for your shipping needs, research research research. It may not seem that important, but when you realize that you have a $50,000 vehicle (or any item for that matter) sitting on who-knows-where on who-knows-what equipment and you have little more than a first and last name for the person…it can become pretty scary. We have created a list of transport tips to assist a consumer in their due-diligence so that you may be informed before choosing your transporter.



· It is illegal to ship anything for hire without having valid operating authority from the DOT. You may request a copy of this certificate from your prospective transporters, and you may verify the information provided on the DOT website for your protection.

· You may also check their Motor Carrier number (MC#) out at http://www.safersys.org/ to make sure their authority is active and their liability and cargo insurance are on file. You may request a copy of their insurance as well.

· Not every legal transport company has a website or contact person, request this information beforehand, so if a problem should arise in the future, you know who to contact.

· Request a list of pre-trip instructions if the transporter provides it. Transporters are not held responsible for damage that occurs from improper preparation of your boat. It is better to know ahead of time to secure the boat or arrange for your marina or pick-up point to do so on your behalf.



Christine Transport offers a full and comprehensive checklist for preparing your boat for travel and can be found on our transport homepage. If you need to check the status of your transporter, you can do so at the DOT website to verify license and insurance status for your company of choice. This is just another service we provide to help keep you informed to protect you and your valuables - every transport experience should be an enjoyable one!


Christine Transport
Info@ChristineTransport.com
http://www.christinetransport.com/
Free Boat Transport Quotes: 352-553-8637
“Get your boat to where the fun is."

Friend us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BoatTransporter
Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChristineTransport
Follow us on Twitter: http://http//www.twitter.com/BoatShipper


Photo credit: Linda Kuo