Key Takeaways
Calculate capacity using the boat’s loaded weight, including fuel, batteries, water, equipment, and other items, not only its dry weight.
Allow a 20% safety margin and confirm that the lift also accommodates the boat’s beam, hull, draft, and motor configuration.
Capacity upgrades are not suitable for every lift, so owners should consult a dealer before modifying pulleys, cables, or structural components.
Lifting your boat out of the water offers a lot of protection and increases the lifespan of your equipment—you just have to make sure you’re investing in the right lift. Some boat lifts on the market can be upgraded to handle higher capacities, but always ask your dealer if that’s possible just to be safe. When it comes to your long-term investment, though, some boat dock lift qualities make lifting heavier boats easier and help you determine what capacity you’ll need.
The Boat Itself
Obviously, the weight of your watercraft determines your capacity. Your boat specification sheet will have the base dry weight of your boat, but think about how much your boat will weigh after you add gas, batteries, water, equipment, passengers, and anything else you’ll be taking onto the water. Allow a 20% safety margin for weight, and always size up for boat lift capacity: you can’t be too careful.
Your boat style—including beam, lift, hull shape, draft, presence of an inboard or outboard motor, etc.—will also determine the kind of lift you need. The length of your cradle beam should be the length of the widest portion of your boat with a four-inch cushion on either side (10 if you’re using guideposts). Sheaves as part of a pulley system can be added to increase the capacity of the boat lift, but again, ask your local Shoremaster dealer if this is an option for your lift.
Dock Location
Before boat lift installation, think about the type of dock you have and the water conditions around it. You might need a different amount of lift if your water is deep, shallow, or fluctuates. Rough waters might need a higher lift, and saltwater has its own considerations as well. Floating and fixed docks can also affect what capacity your boat lift will need to be able to hold while staying stable.
Materials
Before investing in or upgrading a boat lift, make sure that the materials are strong and engineered to last. ShoreMaster recommends aluminum for most boat lift scenarios. It allows for optimal stability and performance across a variety of shorelines. Because it’s a lighter material, it can be made thicker and therefore stronger without adding a lot of extra weight. It’s low-maintenance and holds up well in many conditions.
ShoreMaster Boat Lift Installation Advice
The best boat lift system is the one that works with your boat and shoreline, and we have vertical, hydraulic, and pontoon lifts in multiple sizes. ShoreMaster has been a waterfront industry leader for years because of our commitment to quality products and expert advice. Our premium boat docks, lifts, and accessories are made from premium materials, assembled with expert engineering, and backed up by a professional customer support team ready to answer your questions and help with boat lift installation. For questions about your boat dock lift and your unique waterfront, contact a ShoreMaster dealer near you.
FAQs
Does installing a stronger motor increase a boat lift’s weight capacity?
No. A more powerful motor does not increase the structural rating of the frame, cables, pulleys, or other lift components. The complete system must be rated for the boat’s loaded weight.
Can different bunks increase a boat lift’s capacity?
Bunks can improve hull support and positioning, but they do not automatically raise the lift’s rated capacity. Any bunk changes must remain compatible with the lift and watercraft.
How can owners estimate the weight of equipment carried on a boat?
Review specifications for batteries, fuel capacity, water tanks, motors, and installed accessories. Add an estimate for regularly stored gear, then include the recommended safety margin.
When is replacing a boat lift safer than upgrading it?
Replacement may be the safer choice when the existing frame is not designed for a higher load or when several major components would require modification. A dealer should evaluate the full system before an upgrade is attempted.
