Transporting a boat or jet ski is only half the journey — safe unloading and launching are just as important. Whether your vessel is being delivered to a marina, workshop, or private property, the way it’s handled during unloading can make the difference between a smooth handover and costly damage.
OTS Group provides professional Boat & Jet Ski Transport across New Zealand, managing the full process from pickup to launch with specialised equipment and trained operators.
1. The Importance of Proper Launching Procedures
Boats and jet skis are uniquely shaped and often sensitive to stress along the hull. Incorrect launching angles or unbalanced trailers can put pressure on fittings, keels, or transoms. That’s why proper unloading and launch alignment are crucial for preventing cracks, stress marks, or cosmetic damage.
Professional marine transporters like OTS Group use hydraulic tilt systems, stabilised trailers, and guide rails to ensure your vessel enters the water or rests on land correctly supported.
2. What Your Transport Company Should Provide
When choosing a marine transporter, make sure they’re equipped and qualified to handle unloading or launching safely. The essentials include:
- Hydraulic trailers or tilt beds for precise launch control.
- Soft straps and hull supports to protect paint and fittings.
- Certified operators experienced in marine handling.
- Insurance coverage for the entire transport and unloading process.
- Communication between driver, marina staff, or property owners before arrival.
OTS Group coordinates directly with marinas and clients to ensure every launch site is safe, accessible, and prepared before the vessel arrives.
3. Site Preparation Before Delivery
Before your boat or jet ski is delivered, make sure the site is ready:
- Clear the area of obstructions or vehicles.
- Ensure there’s a stable surface for unloading (concrete, ramp, or compacted gravel).
- Confirm access widths and overhead clearance.
- Notify nearby staff or neighbours if access will be temporarily restricted.
Proper site preparation prevents delays and makes the handover process smoother and safer.
4. Safety During Unloading
Safety is a top priority during every unloading operation. Our team uses guided winch systems and slow-release hydraulic tilts to control the descent of each vessel, whether it’s being placed onto a cradle, trailer, or slipway.
Each operator follows WorkSafe NZ safety protocols, ensuring the vessel and everyone on site remain protected throughout the process.
5. Communication & Documentation
Professional marine transport includes clear communication before, during, and after delivery. OTS Group provides clients with:
- Estimated time of arrival updates
- Condition reports with photos
- Confirmation once unloading or launching is complete
This ensures complete transparency and peace of mind from start to finish.
6. Fully Insured Nationwide Service
OTS Group’s marine transport services are fully insured across New Zealand. With depots in Auckland and Christchurch, we coordinate intercity and regional boat deliveries daily, ensuring your vessel is always handled safely and professionally.
Summary — Smooth Delivery from Road to Water
From trailers to tie-downs, the final stages of marine transport matter as much as the journey itself. With the right gear, communication, and expertise, OTS Group ensures every boat or jet ski is unloaded, launched, and handed over safely — ready for the next adventure.
Call 0800 22 00 33 or Request a Quote for professional marine transport and launching services anywhere in New Zealand.