Shipping Outboard Motors: What You Need to Know

Shipping Outboard Motors: What You Need to Know

🚤 Shipping Outboard Motors: All You Want to Know

If you’re buying an outboard motor, chances are good that you’ve wondered: “How is it going to get here?” Upgrading the performance of your boat or replacing an old engine, buying and shipping outboard motors cost-effectively and safely matters. Not only do we provide high-performance, fuel-saving outboard motors at our outlet, but we also ship them cost-effectively and on time to your marina, dock, or front door.

In this full guide, we are guiding you through all you need to know about shipping outboard motors — from selecting the proper engine, preparing it for delivery, freight, price, insurance, and so on. We also give you full specs of the outboards we carry in stock, so you can pick the best one for your boat and your wallet.


⚙️ Why Ship with Us for Outboard Motors?

And before we start shipping logistics, why do boaters ship with us:

✅ Massive inventory of new and used outboard motors

Yamaha, Mercury, Honda, Tohatsu, Suzuki top brands

✅ 2.5 HP portable engines to 300 HP high-performance beasts

Shipping within the US and globally

✅ Warranty tested, inspected, and shipped engines

✅ Special guidance and package deals with rigging kits and controls

Now on to shipping!


🚚 Can You Ship Outboard Motors? (Yes — and Here’s How)

Yes, outboard motors can be legally and safely shipped around the country and even overseas. Outboard engines are transported as freight items, so they need special handling, packaging, and shipping procedures.

We employ freight carriers specializing in shipping heavy, high-value marine parts. That way, your engine is delivered undamaged, on schedule, and ready to mount.


🛠️ Step-by-Step: Why We Ship Your Outboard Motor

This is how the process happens from purchase to delivery:

✅ Step 1: Pick Your Outboard Motor

Select from best-seller models like:

Yamaha F90 4-Stroke

  • 90 HP, EFI, Long shaft (20″”), Electric start
  • Ideal for pontoons, bay boats, and offshore fishing

Mercury 60 ELPT Command Thrust

  • 60 HP, EFI, 4-Stroke, Power Trim
  • Ideal for mid-size aluminum or fiberglass boats

Tohatsu 20 HP Portable

  • 4-Stroke, Manual/Electric Start, Short/Long Shaft options
  • Lightweight and compact — best suited for dinghies and inflatables

Honda BF250D

  • 250 HP, V6, EFI, Digital controls
  • Designed for large offshore boats, center consoles, and cruisers

We check availability, have it ready, and ship when you’ve chosen your model.


✅ Step 2: Secure Packaging

Engines are crated securely on a custom pallet or in factory shipping crates. The packaging includes:

  • Heavy-duty wood frame or steel-reinforced shipping box
  • Foam padding or rubber mounts to dampen vibration
  • Weather-sealed wrap to resist corrosion and moisture
  • Secured hardware to hold movement fixed in transit

✅ Step 3: Freight Carrier Pickup

We utilize reliable freight carriers like FedEx Freight, R+L Carriers, Old Dominion, and others who specialize in:

  • Liftgate delivery
  • Business and home addresses
  • Marina or dockside delivery
  • Forklift or pallet jack offload

You will have a tracking number, delivery estimate, and shipping information.


✅ Step 4: Final Delivery

Delivery types are:

  • Residential – With liftgate, curbside
  • Marina or Dockside – Truck accessible
  • Business/Shop – Ideal if you have forklift access

We do accept acknowledgement, assist with uncrating, and provide installation support if required.


⚙️ Specifications & Top-Selling Outboard Motor Models We Provide

Below are a number of our top-selling models and specifications:

🔹 Yamaha F115XB

  • 115 HP, 4-Stroke, EFI
  • Long Shaft (20″)
  • Electric Start with Remote
  • Weight: 377 lbs
  • Fuel: Unleaded gasoline
  • Applications: Bass boats, pontoons, saltwater skiffs

🔹 Mercury 9.9 ProKicker EFI

  • 9.9 HP, 4-Stroke
  • Manual or Electric Start
  • Short/Long Shaft options
  • Integrated Tiller or Remote
  • Great for trolling or backup

🔹 Honda BF40

  • 40 HP, 4-Stroke, EFI
  • Triple-cylinder SOHC
  • Long Shaft (20″)
  • 214 lbs
  • Low maintenance, very quiet running

🔹 Tohatsu MFS5DS

  • 5 HP, 4-Stroke
  • Short Shaft
  • Manual Start, Internal Tank
  • Weighs only 57 lbs
  • Great for canoes, dinghies, and tender boats

🚛 Shipping Options: What Are Your Choices?

Shipping your outboard motor can be adjusted to your needs:

✅ Standard Freight (Curbside)

  • Cheapest way to ship
  • Dropped off on a pallet
  • Liftgate service can be purchased if needed

✅ Business Delivery

  • Ship to business address, repair shop, or marina
  • More secure and quicker
  • Must have loading dock or forklift

✅ Residential Delivery

  • With liftgate available
  • Requires someone on the property to take delivery
  • Can include rural delivery surcharge

✅ In-Store Pickup (If Local)

  • Don’t ship at all
  • Pick up your outboard engine fully serviced and ready to go

💸 How Much Does It Cost to Ship an Outboard Motor?

Rates will vary by weight, size, location, and mode of shipping.

Average Shipping Cost Ranges:

Motor TypeApproximate Shipping Cost (US)
Portable (2–20 HP)$125 – $250
Mid-Range (25–90 HP)$200 – $400
Large (100–300 HP)$300 – $600+

Note: Discounted shipping and package specials available on three products (engine + controls + rigging kits).


🛡️ Do I Need Shipping Insurance?

We highly recommend it.

All outboard shipments carry basic carrier insurance, but we give full-value coverage for your protection. This covers against:

  • Shipping damage
  • Lost shipments
  • Delays due to freight issues

In the event of damage, we assist with claims and replace immediately.


🏠 Preparing Your Site for Delivery

Before your outboard is delivered, ensure:

  • The street or driveway is clear to freight truck
  • An adult is home to receive it
  • A flat surface is ready for uncrating
  • Tools at arm’s length (wrench, crowbar, utility knife)

📋 Key Shipping & Returning Information

We back every motor we ship. Here’s the scoop:

  • All motors are visually inspected before shipping
  • You will receive a shipping notice and tracking number
  • Engines must be inspected upon arrival
  • Returns must be approved — restocking fee can be applied
  • All damage during shipping must be reported within 24 hours

❓ Shipping Outboard Motors FAQs

Q: Do you ship outboard motors internationally?
A: Yes, international shipping. Let us know for freight and customs quotes.

Q: How long does shipping take?
A: Generally 2–7 business days within the United States, depending on distance.

Q: What if my motor is damaged when I get it?
A: Take pictures immediately, call within 24 hours, and we’ll process the claim.

Q: Can I install the motor myself?
A: Yes, especially for smaller units. On large motors, we would suggest a marine mechanic.


⚓ Other Things We Ship with Your Engine

  • Throttle/Shift Controls
  • Rigging Kits & Gauges
  • Propellers
  • Fuel Tanks & Lines
  • Engine Covers
  • Hydraulic Steering Systems

Package your outboard with accessories to save and make it easy!


✅ Final Thoughts: Buy and Ship with Confidence

Buying an outboard motor is an investment — and shipping shouldn’t be an ordeal. With us, you…

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