1. Check its authority
Companies that haul boats for hire across state lines must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Ask for its USDOT number and, for for-hire interstate carriers, its MC (operating authority) number. Look them up on the FMCSA SAFER system and check:
- The legal name and address match the company you're dealing with.
- The operating status is "Authorized", not "Not authorized" or "Out of service".
- Whether it's registered as a carrier, a broker or both.
2. Carrier or broker?
A carrier moves your boat with its own trucks and drivers. A broker arranges the move with a carrier. Both can be legitimate, but you should know which you're dealing with and who will actually transport your boat.
3. Check insurance
Ask for a certificate of insurance with cargo coverage that matches your boat's value. See our insurance guide.
4. Get it in writing
Get a written quote that states the total price, what's included (permits, escorts, loading), the pickup and delivery windows, payment terms and the cancellation policy.
5. Red flags
- A price far below every other quote.
- Requests for full payment upfront by wire or gift card.
- No USDOT/MC number, or numbers that don't match the company name.
- Unwilling to provide proof of insurance.
Last reviewed 2026-11-15.