Sometimes it becomes necessary to remove a boat from the USCG documentation center. When that happens, there’s a process that needs to be followed to ensure that all of the proper parties are informed of the deletion. A Coast Guard Certificate of Documentation contains all paperwork relevant to the vessel and is where a letter of deletion can be found if one exists. Not sure exactly what a letter of deletion is? Keep reading for all of the information you need.
Who Can Request a Letter of Deletion?
You must be a party associated with the boat to request a letter of deletion. That means that you are the vessel’s legal owner or an authorized agent who can act on behalf of the boat’s owner. When applying for a letter of deletion, you must have proof of either of these before the process can commence.
Regulations For Deletion
As you can imagine, there are some requirements that go along with a request for deletion from the United States Coast Guard. Meeting these guidelines is necessary to complete the process.
- The Certificate of Documentation must be returned by the owner named on the paperwork.
- Evidence of sale is necessary if the boat is being sold to a non-United States citizen or in a foreign country.
- Paperwork signed by a mortgage holder is required if the vessel has an outstanding mortgage on record. This can be an original or a release signed by the proper parties.
- For boats that measure 5 net tons or more and are used for fishing activities, documentation is required, unless exempt.
- If an application for deletion is accompanied by an original or copy of the bill of sale, this can be used as evidence to transfer ownership.
Filling out the Forms
It’s best to have all the relevant information handy when you fill out your deletion letter request. Not only does this speed up the process, but incomplete information can slow down approval or cause a denial of your request. Most of the data you will need can be found on the paperwork you already have for the vessel. Refer to the following list to find out what you need to include when you fill out the form.
- Vessel name
- Official number
- Vessel hailing port
- Hull identification number
- Information about any outstanding mortgages or liens
- Owner (or managing owner) name
- Company (if relevant)
- Owner contact information
- The reason for a deletion request
- Signature and capacity of the person signing
- Payment and payment information (billing address, etc.)
Once the request is complete, simply submit it and the proper authorities will take over. Once approved, you can move forward with the process of selling the boat or moving it to foreign waters. The form can be completed online and you will be guided through the information necessary. You can also pay for your deletion request online.
Do you have more questions about filing a deletion letter for inclusion with your Coast Guard Certificate of Documentation? We can help. Contact the Vessel Documentation Online today and we can answer your questions and help you get your request filed quickly.
