How to Haul Boats Legally

Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to check its towing capacity. A sedan may be capable of towing a small aluminum fishing boat, but you usually need a truck or SUV to tow a larger boat. The boat’s manual will list the “dry weight” — i.e., the weight of the boat without any gear or equipment stored inside. Make sure you add several hundred pounds to this listed weight when calculating whether your vehicle can tow your boat.

Distribute the weight of the boat for safe hauling. The weight should be distributed evenly so the boat doesn’t lean to one side. About 60 percent of the weight should be in the front half of the boat, and 40 percent should be in the back. To achieve this distribution, store ropes, equipment and other gear in the front of the boat.

Measure the length of your boat and the length of your boat and vehicle added together. Each state has a regulation about these two measurements. Most states allow a total length of about 60 feet, but you need to check your state’s regulations to make sure your boat and towing vehicle do not exceed your state’s allowable length. You can check your state’s regulations at www.americanboating.org/towing.asp.

Refer to your boat owner’s manual to find your boat’s weight. If the weight exceeds a certain amount — 3,000 pounds in most states — you will need to make sure your trailer has separate brakes. Again, check your state’s regulations. For example, Idaho’s weight limit for separate brakes is only 1,500 pounds while Texas’ limit is 4,500 pounds. If your trailer doesn’t have separate brakes and your state requires them, you can buy brakes from a certified boat trailer manufacturer and have them installed by a boat dealer.

Ensure that your trailer’s turn signal and brake lights are fully operational. Have a friend or family member stand behind the boat while you test them so they can see if everything is operating properly.

Secure the boat to the trailer with at least two ratchet-style straps. These straps should be fastened at the front and the rear of the boat.

Check the trailer’s connection to the hitch to make sure it is solid and secure. A cotter pin or bolt should be placed through the latch to prevent it from coming loose. Make sure you also use a safety chain between the towing vehicle and the boat trailer.

Decrease your speed by 10 to 15 miles per hour when traveling on freeways, and always give yourself plenty of time to stop. Take a break from driving every 50 miles or so to check the connection between your towing vehicle and boat trailer. Also check to make sure the ratchet straps are secure on your boat.

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