The short answer
Road transport is usually the simplest way to move a small or trailerable boat, and is often used for yachts that are ashore, going inland or can't make a sea passage. The price depends far more on the boat's size, width, height and weight than on the distance, so every move is quoted individually.
On top of the haulage itself you may pay for the lift out and lift in, mast unstepping and restepping, a cradle, and any wide-load requirements. Some hauliers include these, others don't.
What makes up a road transport quote
| Item | What it covers | Often included? |
|---|---|---|
| Haulage | The vehicle, driver and journey | Always |
| Loading and unloading | Getting the boat on and off the trailer, supports or cradle | Varies by haulier |
| Lift out and lift in | Crane or travel hoist at each end | Often charged by the yard or marina |
| Mast work | Unstepping, securing and restepping the rig | Often separate, sometimes with a rigger |
| Wide-load requirements | Police notification, permits, attendants or escorts | Usually built into the quote for wide boats |
| Insurance | Goods in transit cover while on the road | Check the limit against your boat's value |
What drives the price
Size, weight and the vehicle needed
A trailer boat can go behind a 4x4 or pickup. A yacht with a keel needs a specialist low-loader with a cradle or adjustable supports. The bigger and heavier the boat, the bigger the vehicle and the higher the cost.
Beam and height
Width is the biggest step change in price. UK vehicles are normally up to 2.55m wide, so most yachts are already wider than the lorry. Above set widths the load has to be notified to the police, and above 5m it needs formal approval from National Highways:
| Load width | What's needed |
|---|---|
| Over 2.9m (or 3.0m) | Notify the police two working days ahead |
| Over 5.0m | Police notice plus a VR1 application to National Highways at least two weeks ahead |
| Over 6.1m | Five working days' notice and a special order, applied for about 10 weeks ahead |
Wider loads may also need an attendant or escort vehicle, restricted travel times and route planning around bridges. Height matters too: a deep keel on a cradle can make the load too tall for some routes.
Distance and return loads
Longer journeys cost more, but not in a straight line. A haulier with a return trip heading your way may price lower to fill it, so flexible dates can save money.
Lifting and mast work
Most yachts need lifting out at one end and in at the other, by crane or travel hoist. Sailing yachts also need the mast unstepped and restepped, sometimes with a rigger present. Marinas and boatyards charge for these separately, so ask whether your quote includes them.
Crossing borders
Moves to Europe add ferry costs, foreign permits and different escort rules in each country. See our UK to the Mediterranean guide.
Timings
Once booked, a UK road move usually takes one or two days on the road plus loading and unloading. The lead time is often longer, especially for wide loads that need notice or permits, so ask early.
How to prepare your boat for road transport
- Measure length overall, beam and height on the trailer or cradle, and know the weight.
- Book the lift out and lift in with the yards at each end, and confirm times with the haulier.
- Unstep the mast and secure the rig, or arrange for a rigger to do it.
- Remove or secure loose items, canopies, aerials and anything that could catch the wind.
- Drain water tanks if asked, and make sure batteries are isolated.
- Take photos of the boat's condition before loading.
Accurate dimensions and weight are what let partners give you a firm price first time.
Is road the right choice?
Road is usually best for trailerable boats, boats going inland or to a lake, boats that can't make the passage safely by sea, and boats that need to arrive by a fixed date regardless of weather. For a seaworthy yacht moving along the coast, a skippered delivery by sea needs no lifts or mast work and is often the better value. See moving a boat around the UK for the comparison.