
Owning a boat is great, but you need a sturdy and dependable trailer to haul your watercraft to the water or marina. However, buying a boat trailer entails investing in a hefty sum. A boat trailer may cost anywhere between $500 to $10,000, depending on the construction materials, weight capacity, size, as well as design.
So, unless you move your boat frequently, a trailer might be an optional expense. Renting a trailer for a day or two may be the most cost-effective alternative if you’re not transporting your boat often. Many marinas rent out boat trailers through marine sales and supply companies.
But if buying a trailer is expensive, how much does it cost to rent a boat trailer?
Well, there’s really not a single answer to this question. The cost for renting a boat trailer will depend on various factors such as the size and carrying weight. You can also have a hauling service move the boat and set things up at an additional cost.
Keeping those things in mind, I’ve researched the average costs of rental boat trailers of boat sizes in the US. You can explore your options with the table below. Remember that these numbers are merely estimates and rental prices will vary depending on their load capacity and your provider.
Trailer Style | Size (feet) | Rental Price per Day | Rental Price per Week |
Tandem Axle Trailer | 19 – 21’ | $109 | $545 |
Inboard Trailer | 20 – 26’ | $129 – $229 | $699 – $1,249 |
Pontoon/Tritoon Trailer | 18 – 30’ | $119 – $225 | $649 – $1,089 |
HD Triple Axle Trailer | 36 – 42’ | $200 | $800 |
Quad Axle Trailer | 37 – 44’ | $250 | $1,000 |
Jet Ski Trailer | Up to 18’ | $99 | $400 |
PWC Trailer (single towing) | 10 – 12’ | $79 | $429 |
PWC Trailer (double towing) | 10 – 12’ | $119 | $649 |
Note: Different boats require different types of trailers. Whichever you choose, make sure it not only fits your boat but also your budget.
Moving the Boat by Yourself
This is obviously an easy option if you want to transfer your boat yourself and require a trailer. it would be beneficial to contact your local marine sales and supplies or boating sales firms for recommendations on where you may rent boat trailers.
If you decide to haul your boat on your own, check your rental trailer. A typical 21-foot boat trailer, for example, weighs between 500 and 1,390 lbs for a tandem axle galvanized steel trailer. Most boats of such a length weigh roughly 5,000 lbs.
To pull a trailer and a watercraft with such weight, you’ll need a vehicle that weighs at least 6,000 lbs. The car manufacturer will provide you with all of the details you’ll need on your vehicle’s carrying capacity. But if your vehicle can tow this amount of weight, you should be good to go.
Before renting a boat trailer, make sure that you have all the necessary knowledge to operate a boat trailer. These vehicles will need the appropriate hitch and ball size for your rented trailer, but you may contact your local hardware store for a range of hitch components.
You should also be aware that you are financially liable for any damage to the boat trailers. Rental companies impose strict compliance regarding this.
Things To Consider in Renting a Boat Trailer
Renting a boat trailer isn’t as simple as paying a ticket to a roller coaster ride. You need to do some research and a little preparation goes on your part. Here are a few things to consider when renting a boat trailer.
Boat Type and Size
As I’ve mentioned above, boat trailers come in various sizes. Before renting a trailer, you must first gather your boat’s length, width, and weight. Keep in mind that your boat’s weight must include whatever equipment is on board when you move it.
If you’re not sure about your boat’s dimensions and weight, you may refer to the documents that came with you when you bought it. You may also check with the boat manufacturer regarding the information you need.
Choosing the Best Boat Trailer
Picking an inadequate or trailer of the wrong size might jeopardize the safety of your boat. It can also make it unsafe for other vehicles using the same road as the boat trailer.
Consider the number of axles on the trailer. You can securely use single-axle trailers on boats of 22 feet or less, while larger boats entail using multiple axles.
Other key considerations are the tires, lights, frame materials, roller, wiring, and brake style. The bunk, where your boat settles when you transport it is also important. If you are knowledgeable of these elements, it will be easier for you to find the right boat trailer. You can always consult your provider regarding these things, though.
Finding a Boat Trailer Rental Provider
Finding the right trailer for rent should be relatively simple. If you live in an area where there are a lot of boating sports and recreation, then it will be much easier for you to find a boat trailer provider. There are many marine sales and supply companies that rent boat trailers as well, and you can call one from your area.
If they don’t rent out trailers, you can ask them to refer you to one that can provide you with an adequate trailer. And wherever you moor your boat, you’ll want to consult with the marina and perhaps they know companies that rent out boat trailers around the area.
The tip I always give my readers is to verify the legitimacy of the business before renting a boat trailer from them. It’s also best to check their reputation and the safety policies they offer.
Once you’ve found your rental provider, confirm what documents you’ll need to bring with you when you rent. They may require you to bring your proof of insurance, and make sure to have your credit card ready for reservation.
Should You Hire a Professional Shipper?
You may also hire a professional shipper to transport your vessel since many of them have their own trailer. The distance of the hauling and your boat’s size will affect the cost.
A boat trucking company like the Interstate Haulers transfers different types of boats. You can have your powerboat, sailboat, or yacht in different sizes transported at various fees.
Marketplace-based services where you can publish your shipping info online also work. The platforms where you listed your offer will link you directly to drivers from their network. They will contact you with bids and you can negotiate with your chosen driver about the fees.
Other Shipping Options Available
While finding a boat trailer provider can be easy, it’s not for everyone. Some boat owners simply can’t transport their boat by themselves since they’ll need someone to set things up. You might also find it hard to find a professional boat shipper, so what’s next for you?
You may opt to call sales yards that are transporting boats across the country. This is to check whether there is an opportunity to rent within their cargo system.
It could perhaps involve some more planning on your part if you need your boat to be shipped in a container. This, however, can be a speedy and safe way of transporting your boat across long distances.
Make a Plan Ahead of Time
If you can, book the trailer a few months ahead. This allows you to save money on the rental fee. Avoiding the queues could also help you get the perfect trailer for your needs. If you need to haul your boat in the summer, for instance, you need to make your reservation as early as three months.
Plan ahead of time, and you will have a much more fun experience.
Rental Boat Trailer Tip
You may always pay someone to carry your boat to the water or storage. Make sure to compare prices and that the boat trailer rental business you pick has expertise in shipping boats. Hidden charges are a common complaint among renters, so it’s best to check what other customers say.
FAQs
How are large boats shipped?
Depending on the boat’s size, one commonly-used method of shipping a boat is on its own trailer. A professional boat hauler transports a boat across the land. Most have experience shipping all kinds of boats like pontoon boats, sailboats, speedboats, and yachts.
Can you tow a 50-foot yacht?
The maximum allowable trailer length changes state by state, ranging from 30-60 feet. States also have requirements for the combined length of the vehicle plus trailer being towed, which can run from 50-85 feet. Longer vehicles may be allowed to be towed with an oversize load permit, depending on the jurisdiction.
Final Thoughts
Renting a boat trailer isn’t an expensive investment, just make sure to plan things ahead to get the best deals. Don’t forget to exercise safety precautions and have fun. Good luck!