Canada is one of the best markets to buy boats and motorboats: a long coastline, thousands of lakes and a strong boating culture create a huge supply of well-kept watercraft. Importing a boat from Canada to Kazakhstan, Russia, Ukraine, Europe or Dubai is entirely doable, but watercraft demand a special approach to logistics and customs. Here is how it works, step by step.
Which boat to choose for shipping
The easiest boats to ship are up to 6–8 metres: they fit on a trailer and into an open flat rack or a 40-foot container. Popular options are bowriders, wake/ski boats, aluminium fishing boats and pontoons. Larger yachts and cabin cruisers also ship, but as oversized cargo on flat rack or RoRo, which costs more.
If you need it for fishing, look at aluminium hulls like Lund, Tracker and similar. For watersports and wake, look at bowriders and wake boats with powerful engines.
Dimensions decide everything
The key figures for a shipping quote are length, beam (width), height on the trailer and total weight with the trailer. Hull width determines whether the boat fits a standard container or needs a flat rack. We measure the boat in advance at our Toronto or Montreal warehouse and pick the transport method with minimal cost and damage risk.
Ways to ship watercraft
There are three main options. First, a closed 40-foot container: maximum protection from weather and damage, for boats of suitable width. Second, a flat rack (open platform): for wide and tall hulls. Third, RoRo on a trailer: the boat rolls on with its trailer, handy for larger units. We advise the best method for the specific boat and budget.
Trailer, engine and completeness
Decide the trailer's fate in advance: in some countries it is cleared separately, in others it travels as rigging. The outboard is often removed and transported secured inside for safety. We document all equipment (engine, electronics, cover, rigging) with photo and video before shipping so there are no questions on receipt.
Turnkey boat customs clearance
Watercraft have their own tariff codes, and duties depend on the vessel type, length, engine power and country of import. Registration in the destination's vessel registers may also be required. We handle clearance for you: duty calculation, documents, declaration and release, plus guidance on further registration.
How to order boat shipping
Send a link to a boat you like or describe the type and budget you want. We will verify condition, measure dimensions, choose a transport method and quote shipping and clearance turnkey. Leave a request and we will price your exact boat and destination.