Transporting your boats - Do's and Don'ts!

It's starting to get warmer and we're all itching to get out on the water, so let's make sure we get our boats to the put-in safely!

Remember - You are responsible for safely securing any loads on your vehicle!

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Do: Check your roof rack mounting points (they can get loose!)

Do: Check your straps for wear (sunlight wrecks nylon over time!)

Do: Properly pad your bars or carriers as needed

Do: Safely lift your boats (find a friend to help) and be mindful of the wind

Do: Properly and tightly strap your boat to your roof racks and/or boat carriers using cam straps (not ratchet straps)

Do: Use bow/stern lines for longer boats

Do: Secure any loose ends from flapping in the breeze

Do: Stop and check your straps after driving a short distance

Do: Stop and check your straps at each stop if driving long distance

Do: Use caution when transporting multiple boats - make sure that each is firmly secured

Do: Firmly pat your boat and utter the magic incantation "Well, that's not going anywhere." After strapping it down.

Do: Check all trailer connections and lights

Do: Trailer safety chains at all times

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Do Not: Use ratchet straps! Ratchet straps can quickly and easily apply too much force and crack your boat!

Do Not: Assume that your boat is secure - always check before getting in the car, every time!

Do Not: Use overly-complicated systems to tie your boats down. Lines should be as short and direct as possible to reduce play and wobble.

Do Not: Assume that tossing your boat in a truck bed is good enough, always tie it down!

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What other Do's, Don'ts, or Questions for boat transportation do you have?

Written by Michael Carney