Some
carriers have
recommended that I remove the mast and stow it on the truck separately.

If by "truck" you mean the mast will be secured to the trailer, this is what
is normally done.

They
also say to expect some scratching on the mast.

This is -not- normal. Did they say WHY you should expect some scratching of
the mast? Perhaps the rigging rubbing against the mast? I recommend you
strip the mast of all rigging (leaving fishing line leaders to re-rig
halyards) and wrap the mast if necessary. Then use layers of carpet to
protect the mast where it may rest against the trailer and where it will be
secured. Dirt and grime are normal for delivering a boat by truck.
Scratching and other damage are NOT normal. If the trucking company insists
otherwise, find someone else.

Unless they do a real
careful job
of stowing the mast, I feel more comfortable stowing it on the boat, if
they will
permit it. Does anyone have any strong opinions either way on this
aspect?

I'd have to see your boat and how you want to secure the mast. Normally,
the mast is removed and secured to the frame of the trailer. The boom is
either secured to the trailer, or stored inside the boat. For most
situations, I think this is the best approach.

Keep in mind, NEW boats are shipped cross-country all the time and are
delivered without even the smallest scratch. If the boat is prepped
properly, secured to the trailer properly and the driver is competent, there
is almost no reason for your boat to suffer anything more than some filth.
If the trucking companies tell you otherwise, you need to shop around some
more. Maybe call a few new boat dealers in your area to find out who they
use. You might be able to get them to take your boat on a return trip.

--
Paul

=-----------------------------------=
renewontime dot com
FREE email reminder service for licensed mariners
http://www.renewontime.com
=-----------------------------------=