• Make sure the companies you speak with transport boats of the same size and type as your boat.
• Get information on the equipment they plan on using for your boat. 
• Ask questions about their loading and unloading procedures. 
• Find out if there are any specific needs they may have regarding your boat. 
• Will they need a special permit for your load? 

If they are unwilling to answer your questions professionally, you may want to think about looking at another carrier.

You need to be clear about the pick-up and drop-off locations.  Do not, however, give the hauler the specific pick up and drop off addresses until you are sure you will be doing business with them. This ensures that they do not pick up the boat early without your permission. 

Some companies transport boats on a large flatbed trailer; if so the boat hauler may need to transfer your boat to a smaller tow vehicle to reach residential areas.  Make sure you know these details, so that you aren't surprised by any extra costs.      

Payment  

Discuss the payment process early on with your service provider.  Clearly set up how the transaction will be made, and if there will be a required deposit.  Your payment should be due by the boat's delivery date, and you will most likely be asked for a deposit and signed order beforehand.  Make sure to get a deposit refund policy in writing, otherwise, if something goes wrong, you can lose your deposit.  Deposits should not be excessive, and you should never be required to pay in full in advance.  If a company requests this, start looking for another company.

Possible forms of payments are as follows: Cash, Postal Money Order, Cashier's Check, or Major Credit Cards.  It may be in your best interest to charge the transaction in case you need to dispute it later on.