Lesson 2: Preparation

In Lesson 1, we covered what you need to know before getting started with boat transport on CitizenShipper, including who your customers are and the basic legal considerations for operating as a transporter.

In this lesson, we’ll focus on how to confirm a boat is properly prepared for transport and how to set clear expectations with customers before pickup day.

Proper preparation helps you:

• Avoid delays at pickup
  
• Reduce the risk of damage claims
  
• Protect your equipment and reputation
  

Strengthen customer trust during the booking process

Who Is Responsible for Preparation?

On CitizenShipper, your role as a driver is to transport the boat—not to prepare it.

Industry best practice is that boat preparation is the responsibility of the owner or seller. However, it’s important that you:

• Clearly communicate preparation requirements before booking
  
• Verify readiness after booking and before pickup
  
  

This protects you from unexpected issues and gives customers a clear understanding of what’s required.

💡 Pro Tip: Asking the right preparation questions shows professionalism and expertise—often making customers more comfortable accepting a higher, more accurate quote.

What to Verify Before Pickup?

Use the checklist below to confirm the boat is ready for transport:

• All removable or protruding items—including electronics, anchors, antennas, propellers, flag masts, outriggers, canvas, cushions, screens, lights, and windshields—have been removed, packed, and securely stored.
  (Anything extending beyond the stated length, width, or height must be removed.)
  
  
• Batteries and electronic systems are disconnected and secured.
  
  
• Cabin doors, cabinets, and compartments are closed and locked.
  
  
• Hull drain plugs have been removed, and all onboard water systems—including pumps, air conditioners, and plumbing—have been fully drained.
  ❄ ️Winter tip: RV antifreeze helps prevent freeze damage during colder months.
  
  
• Water tanks are empty, and the fuel tank contains only a minimal amount of fuel (ideally less than ¼ full).
  
  
• If the boat is delicate or has a high-end finish, protective tarps are applied to prevent damage from road debris.
  
  
• For powerboats, confirm the windshield is secure, seals are intact, and mounting screws show no signs of corrosion.
  
  

Boats over 30 feet may require preparation to be supervised or inspected by a licensed marine surveyor, unless transported directly from a dealership.

Setting Expectations with Customers

Before confirming pickup, we recommend messaging the customer to:

• Confirm all preparation steps are completed
  
  
• Clarify that preparation is the owner’s responsibility
  
  
• Let them know delays or issues may require rescheduling
  
  

Clear communication upfront helps ensure a smooth pickup and protects both parties on the platform.

Key Takeaway

✅ Well-prepared boats lead to smoother transports, fewer disputes, and better reviews.

By verifying preparation early, you position yourself as a professional transporter and set yourself up for success on CitizenShipper.

Safety & Security (In Transit)

Once the boat is properly prepared, the next priority is safety during transport. Taking the time to double-check equipment and secure the load correctly helps prevent accidents, delays, damage claims, and disputes.

Securing the Boat & Equipment

• Smaller boats may have limited onboard storage, which means some items may need to travel inside your vehicle. Any equipment transported this way should be secured just as carefully to prevent shifting or damage.
  
  
• Secure the boat firmly to the trailer, both at the front and rear.
  Heavy-duty straps are essential—without them, the boat can bounce against (or even off) the trailer during transit.
  
  

Inspect the boat cover and how it’s fastened. Some newer vessels are shrink-wrapped; if so, confirm there are no tears or loose areas before departure.

Trailer Safety Checklist

Before hitting the road, confirm the following:

• The trailer is structurally sound, with no visible cracks or damage.
  
  
• Brakes are in good working order if the trailer weight requires them.
  
  
• All lights are functioning properly (brake lights, indicators, running lights).
  
  
• If using a customer-provided trailer, verify:
  
  
  • It is properly registered
    
    
  • A spare tire is included
    
    
  • The annual inspection is current and within acceptable limits
    
    
• Trailer tires are checked for:
  
  
  • Proper air pressure
    
    
  • Adequate tread depth
    
    
  • No signs of dry rot, cracks, bubbles, or gouges

Documentation & On-Road Safety

• Before departure, take clear photos of the boat, trailer, and any existing damage.
  This documentation helps protect you from being held responsible for damage you did not cause.
  
  
• During transit, check straps and the bow eye at every stop.
  Re-tighten as needed—straps can loosen over time due to vibration and movement.
  
  
• Always use two safety chains or cables, crisscrossed between the tow vehicle and the trailer coupler.
  
  
  • Crossing the chains helps prevent the trailer from detaching if the coupler fails.
    
    

Leave enough slack for safe turning, but not so much that the chains drag on the road.

Key Takeaway

✅ A secure load, a safe trailer, and proper documentation protect you, your equipment, and your reputation on CitizenShipper.

Taking a few extra minutes before and during the trip can prevent costly issues later.

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