Vehicle and Boat — Permits, Winterization, Shipping

Plans adapt for seasonality, port operations, and route conditions, with permits and winter prep to protect assets.

Permits

Oversize or overweight moves require Alaska state permits; MS and CVC center supports statewide requests with dimensional rules and contacts.

Who: MS and CVC Commercial Vehicle Center
Docs: Administrative Permit Manual
Need: Dimensions, axle weights, routes
Tip: Plan lead time around port schedules

Winterization

Cold-season prep covers fluids, antifreeze mix, battery protection, and inspections to prevent weather-related issues during marine and road legs.

• Verify coolant and antifreeze mix
• Battery state and protection
• Additional cold-weather checks
• Allow pre and post-load idling

Shipping windows

Summer sailings are more consistent; winter may extend timelines due to storms and reduced daylight, with adjusted ETAs.

Summer: stable schedules
Winter: weather adjustments
Ports: may pause in severe weather

Budgeting

Off-peak winter can reduce rates and improve booking flexibility, offering leverage for flexible timelines.

Demand: lower in winter
Promotions: more common
Flexibility: better slots