Question about buying a boat
 

I'm thinking about purchasing a boat that is located in another state about 7 hours away. I won't be able to do the usual show up with the money, hook it on the truck and drive away this time. I plan to have it shipped. My question is what is the best way to handle the transaction. Should I pay for the boat and have it registered and insured under my name before having it picked up? I'm just worried about something happening to it during transport or would the shipping company be responsible during that phase?