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Donating a shrink-wrapped or winterized boat

Leave it wrapped. A shrink-wrapped, winterized boat travels well and needs nothing from you. You do not need to wait for spring to donate.

Call (888) 228-7320
A powerboat shrink-wrapped in tight white plastic on jack stands and blocks in a snowy boatyard, with its dark bottom showing below the wrap and bare trees and a chain-link fence behind
Start your donation here
Two answers now, the rest takes about three minutes.

Reviewing a wrapped boat

We cannot see under the wrap, so your description matters. Photos from before it was wrapped, or through a door in the wrap, are helpful.

Winter pickups

Transporters work year round. Snow, ice, and yard hours can affect timing, so we schedule around the weather.

Why donate in winter

A winter donation avoids spring commissioning costs and next season's storage bill. It can also help if you want the deduction in the current year.

Winterized engines

A winterized engine has fogging oil and antifreeze in it. That is fine for transport. The next owner recommissions it.

Photos through the wrap

Many shrink wraps have a zippered door. If yours does, a few photos of the cockpit and engine help. If not, photos from before wrapping are fine.

Wrapped boats in the water

Boats wintered in the water under wrap are picked up after haul-out. We coordinate with your marina.

Questions

Do I need to unwrap it for inspection?

No. Photos and your description are usually enough.

Is winterization required?

No, but if the boat is in a freezing climate, it protects the engine.

What if the wrap is torn?

Tell us. It is not a problem for pickup.

Will the wrap survive highway travel?

Usually. The transporter checks it and secures loose areas.

Should I remove batteries for winter?

If they are already out, tell us where they are. They can go with the boat.

How a donation works

1
Tell us about the boat
A short form or one phone call.
2
We review it and call
An honest answer, usually within a business day.
3
Free pickup
A member of our trusted transport team works around your schedule.
4
Sale and tax paperwork
We sell it and send your Form 1098-C.

What your donation supports

Net proceeds fund Boats with Causes' charitable programs across the country.

Housing and shelter Veterans Children and youth Family relief Disaster relief Medical hardship

Start your boat donation

Takes about three minutes. Your best guesses are fine, or call (888) 228-7320.

BWC Donation: General (guides, states, main pages)

Free pickup by our trusted transport team · We handle title transfer and tax paperwork · No cost to you