USCG vessel documentation is required for boats that measure over five net tons. In the old days, the paperwork to be documented was filled out by hand and mailed in. Then you’d have to wait for the approval and the documentation to be mailed back to you. Now, in the 21st century, it’s much faster…
USCG News
How to Change Your Hailing Port (and Other Important Tasks) Online
Did you move your vessel from one hailing port to another and want to change the documentation to reflect that? Or, alternatively, did you just get your vessel documented, and aren’t entirely sure how to mark the port from which your vessel hails? There’s all kinds of questions asked by vessel documentation forms that first-time…
Should You Use A Broker To Purchase US Marine Boats?
Vessel dealers are like real estate agents. People ask them to find US Marine Boats they can purchase. Ship owners hire them to represent them when they need to sell their vessel. As for the commissions, it’s usually the seller who pays it, not the buyer. But brokers have an obligation to both the buyer and the…
What Is a Builders Certificate of a Boat and How and When is it Used?
Also called a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) or a Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO), a builders certificate of a boat is a document that is issued in an official capacity by a boat manufacturer. The document proves the boat’s origin and is used for ownership and registration purposes. If you want to know more,…
Your Vessel Documentation Does Not Have to be Difficult
You waited a long time to finally buy your first real recreational boat, and you cannot wait to take it on your first big trip along the coast or out into the ocean waters. You have done everything correctly, gotten your state registration and have all the safety checks and features you need. You decided…
Effective Ways on How to Apply For A Preferred Ship Mortgage
There is a good chance that you are familiar with mortgages for real estate. With the advent of the preferred ship mortgage, ship owners may take out loans against their boats. It’s a common misconception that only current or former navy commanders may qualify for this financing. A preferred ship mortgage is available to any…
Making Changes to Your Vessel Documentation the Right Way
When modifying your vessel documentation, you must follow the correct procedures. Assuring that your documentation is in order and that all procedures have been taken is a key part of this process. If you need assistance with any aspect of boat paperwork, including making alterations or transferring ownership, don’t hesitate to contact the US Coast…
How to Use the US Coast Guard Bill of Sale to Sell a Boat
If you’re trying to sell your boat, you’ll need a US Coast Guard Bill of Sale. This document serves as evidence of the property’s rightful owner. When selling a boat, you’ll often need a bill of sale. Whether you’re selling or purchasing a new boat, both parties should complete this form. USCG bill of sale,…
Reasons You Need a Vessel Documentation Service
If you’re a U.S. vessel owner, you know how important it is to keep your documentation up to date. But did you know that there are vessel documentation services that can help make the process easier for you? Having the proper documents for your boat or ship is crucial, particularly if you plan on sailing…
The US Coast Guard Registry and New Year’s Boat Safety
As of this writing, New Year’s Eve is just ahead of us. Are you going out on the water with friends and family? Even if you end up reading this blog long after the holiday has passed, there’s plenty of safety advice that should serve you well for Christmas, the 4th of July, and any…