What are the Extra Costs for Hauling an Oversized Boat?

Transporting an oversized boat in Ontario involves several additional costs beyond standard towing fees. These expenses are primarily driven by the boat’s dimensions (width, height, length, and weight) and the regulatory requirements set by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO).

Key extra costs include:

  • Oversize/Overweight Permits: Any boat exceeding a width of 2.6 m (8.5 ft) or a weight of 55,000 kg requires a permit. Single-trip permit fees typically range from $100 to $500 depending on the route and size.
  • Pilot Car Escorts: Professional escort vehicles are mandatory if the boat’s width exceeds 3.75 m (12.3 ft) or its length exceeds 30 m. These services generally cost between $300 and $800 per day.
  • Specialized Equipment Fees: Hauling large vessels (up to 50 feet) requires professional systems like a Conolift hydraulic trailer. Transport rates for this specialized equipment typically range from $5 to $10 per km.
  • Insurance Adjustments: While liability is often included, Cargo Insurance to protect against physical damage during transit usually costs between 1% and 3% of the boat’s declared hull value.
  • Fuel Surcharges: For long-distance hauls exceeding 200 km, a fuel surcharge of 10% to 15% of the base rate is commonly applied.

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