How to Measure a Boat for a Trailer
Trailers are a convenient way of transporting boats on land. Many boats come with a trailer that is custom fit for that particular make and model. If you're buying a secondhand boat with no trailer, you'll need to measure the boat's length, width and weight in order to find the trailer that's right for the boat. Hauling a boat that is too large or heavy for the trailer is extremely dangerous. The boat could break the trailer, or even fall off.
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Instructions
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Measure the distance between the bow eye at the front of the boat to the stern, just above the water line.
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Measure the width or beam of the boat. It is best to measure the widest point at both the top edge and at the waterline.
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Determine the boat's hull weight. You can get this from the identification or capacity plate which is usually mounted close to where the operator sits. If the boat has an inboard engine, its weight will be included in the total weight.
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Add the hull weight to the weight of the engine, if the engine is an outboard. You can find the engine's weight by contacting the manufacturer, or checking the manual or specifications sheets.
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Add the hull and engine weight to the weight of other components, such as kicker motors, trolling motors, batteries, and other gear.
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Add the capacity of the fuel tank to the weight. Gasoline weighs approximately seven pounds per gallon, so a boat with a 15 gallon tank will have an extra 105 pounds when the tank is full.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't underestimate the weight of the boat when it is loaded. Most manufacturers only factor in the weight of the hull and engine when giving the hull weight for boats with inboard motors. Outboard motors are not added to the weight at all. All of the extra items can add several hundred pounds onto the weight of the boat. Always err on the side of caution.
