About Smitty's Haulin'
Welcome to Smitty's Haulin', where maritime expertise meets excellence in specialized transport. Since our establishment in 2010, we've evolved from a part-time hobby to becoming one of the industry's leading marine transport specialists. Our commitment to precision, safety, and seamless transport experiences has propelled us to the forefront of the field.
The Beginning:
Smitty's Haulin', Inc. was founded in 2010 in Maryland by James "Smitty" Smith. What started as a part-time hustle in the hotshot trucking industry which rapidly became a full-time business endeavor in response to the challenges posed by Superstorm Sandy in 2012 which defined us as a specialized marine transport company as well as introducing us to global transport and logistics.
Rapid Expansion:
By early 2013, Smitty's Haulin' was operating at full capacity, and by the latter half of the same year, we proudly acquired a second truck and trailer. Fast forward to 2024, and we now boast a fleet of three trucks, drivers, several owner operators, and we boast of a diverse range of trailers capable of handling everything from small vessels to massive yachts and we even coordinate in-water moves and other complex logistical needs when our clients require it.
Marine Specialized Transport Experts:
With over a decade of dedicated service, Smitty's Haulin' has positioned itself as one of the top marine specialized transportation specialists in the United States. Our expertise extends from coast to coast and logistical solutions encompassing the globe. If you need to move a boat or yacht, or any other type of shipments, you've come to the right place.
Comprehensive Solutions:
Our capabilities go beyond transport. We offer comprehensive solutions, from coordinating water moves to long-distance road transport, and everything in between. Whether it’s marine transport, flatbed, lowboy, equipment, freight, overseas shipping solutions, building cradles, or ensuring proper storage of your goods, we handle every detail for a seamless journey. Check out our Services Page to see if we have the solutions to fit your needs.
Transporting Dreams:
At Smitty's Haulin', we understand that your vessel and shipments are more than just an object, they are a dream. Our mission is to help you move that dream with precision, care, and a touch of maritime expertise. You can find several pictures in our Gallery that show our previous jobs. Contact us for Your Quote today, and let us help transport your dream. May you have fair winds and following seas!
Meet Smitty
Meet James "Smitty" Smith, the driving force behind Smitty's Haulin'. A U.S. Army Combat Engineer Veteran and retired Maritime SWAT Officer and Deputy Sheriff from Calvert County, Maryland, Smitty's roots are deeply embedded in the maritime heritage of the Chesapeake Bay and Solomons Island, Maryland.
Early Years on the Water:
Born and raised in Solomons Island, Smitty's earliest memories are of the Patuxent River, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Southern Maryland tributaries. At the tender age of 5, his grandfather, Capt. Henry Batchelor, initiated him into the world of fishing and crabbing. The river became a classroom, and Smitty learned the art of maritime operations and navigating the waters and the thrill of the catch.
Passion for the Water:
Even after his grandfather's untimely passing at the age of 13, Smitty's love for the water endured. Throughout his teenage years, he spent every available moment fishing, crabbing, and enjoying the peace of time on the water nurturing a passion that would eventually define his career.
Marina Experience:
One of Smitty's first jobs was at a local marina and boatel as a dockhand and forklift operator which provided hands-on experience in boat maintenance and proper storage procedures. These formative years laid the foundation for his expertise in the marine industry years later.
Military and Law Enforcement Service:
Following a 4-year enlistment in the U.S. Army, Smitty embarked on a 13-year career as a Sheriff's Deputy. His service extended across various roles, including patrol, maritime S.W.A.T., and a field training officer. Unfortunately, injuries cut short this chapter of his life but opened a doorway that was yet to be known at the time.
Founding Smitty's Haulin':
Undeterred by challenges, Smitty turned his passion for boats and the water into a business. After Superstorm Sandy Smitty's Haulin' Marine Specialized Transport came to life. What started as a hobby had evolved into a side hustle and, eventually, the establishment of Smitty's Haulin', Inc. Today, Smitty takes pride in being recognized as one of the industry leaders and experts in marine specialized transport. He attributes all of his success in business and the industry to his life experiences and his "no quit" attitude.
Ready for Every Challenge:
Known for his unwavering commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and his "no quit" attitude, Smitty is always ready for the next big challenge. His journey from the waterways of Solomons Island, Maryland to the pinnacle of the marine transport industry reflects a lifetime dedicated to the sea and a commitment to making dreams a reality.
