The 21st Century Way To Process Uscg Vessel Documentation

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 and easier to process United States Coast Guard documentation online. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about it.

Why Document Your Boat?
It’s legally required to document your boat, whether it’s at the state level, the federal level, or both. Much like registering your car, you must do the same for your watercraft, which makes it legal for you to operate on the water, either for commercial purposes or for fun. Being documented by the United States Coast Guard also offers specific benefits, including the freedom to sail on international waters, priority ports in other countries, emergency assistance, and others. It’s also much easier to sell a boat that is USCG documented.

How to Document Your Boat
Gone are the days of having to fill out your boat paperwork by hand with a ballpoint pen. Now, you can use our easy online portal to get assistance and guidance with your documentation needs. The process is much simpler when you are prompted to put information in the appropriate location and it takes a lot of the guesswork out of the process. It’s now possible to apply for USCG documentation online, as well as renew all paperwork when the time comes. The entire process is convenient and can be done on your phone, laptop, or tablet, wherever and whenever you’re ready to get the process completed.

What You Need to Get Started
Before you apply to have your boat documented, you will need to have some vital information handy, which is required to receive your paperwork. That includes your hull identification number, the registration number, and the name of your boat. You will also have to prove your citizenship and that you own the boat in question. That can be done via a bill or sale or certificate of title. Once your paperwork is complete, it will be reviewed and once it’s approved, you will receive your Certificate of Documentation.

to Keep in Mind
Once documented, it’s imperative to keep all relevant paperwork somewhere safe and dry on your boat. If you are ever boarded by the United States Coast Guard, you will need to have this paperwork on hand to prove that you are allowed to operate and that you are the owner of the boat. It’s also necessary in an emergency if you need to call for help. Remember that your paperwork will need to be renewed consistently so watch for notices that yours is about to expire so that you can apply for renewal in an appropriate time frame.

USCG vessel documentation doesn’t have to take a lot of time or effort. With the internet, it’s never been easier to apply for boat documentation. Do you need help facilitating the process? Do you have questions about how to get it done? Contact Vessel Documentation Online and we’ll help you every step of the way.

Maritime Documents 101: The Differences Between Titling And Documenting A Vessel

With several types of maritime documents, you may be overwhelmed with trying to figure out what you need and don’t need. Fortunately, we are here to help you through the process. There are some differences between registering your boat with the United States Coast Guard and titling your vessel at the state level. Wondering which is applicable to you? This handy guide will help you understand the differences so you can get the right paperwork done for your boat.

United States Coast Guard Documentation
If your boat measures 5 net tons or larger, it’s eligible for registration with the U.S. Coast Guard. This federal registration has plenty of advantages, other than the legal requirements necessary to own and operate a boat. When you are registered with the USCG, you have permission to sail in international waters and may have priority when docking in a foreign country. It’s also much easier to sell a boat when it’s documented with the Coast Guard.

Upon application approval, you will be issued a Certificate of Documentation, which includes an Abstract of Title, which includes information about the boat, including its origin, ownership, and mortgages connected to the vessel. Only United States citizens can register with the Coast Guard, so keep that in mind. You’ll also get a unique identifying number that will stay with the boat, even if you sell it.

If you are ever boarded by the Coast Guard, it’s important to have all relevant paperwork in a clean, dry location where it can be easily accessed. This is for legal reasons, but also necessary if you ever have to call for emergency assistance.

Boat Titling Documentation
At the state level, you may be required to title your vessel, which is separate from the Abstract of Title you receive from the United States Coast Guard. Check with your state of residence about the requirements for titling your boat. In some cases, you will register in the state you live in, but in some cases, you could need to register in the state where your boat is docked (if it’s not the same state you live in).

When your registration is approved, you will receive a paper title, which is similar to the one you have for your car, truck, or SUV. You will need to keep this title on board your boat at all times. Make sure it’s in a place that is clean and dry. It should also be easily accessible just in case you ever need to show proof of titling for any reason.

Another thing to keep in mind is that if you plan to visit another state with your boat for more than 60 days, you may need to register it in that state. In some cases, you could have your boat registered in more than one state. Be sure to check the regulations regarding this in the relevant states, as restrictions vary from state to state.

Do you need help navigating the process for maritime documents? You’re in the right place. Contact the Vessel Documentation Online today and we’ll help you determine which documents you need and can help guide you through the process of getting them filled out and submitted.

Need To Do A Coast Guard Documented Vessel Search?

If you ever need to do a Coast Guard-documented vessel search, the good news is that it is possible to do so online. Whether you want to do a search on your own boat or one you are considering buying, or one you simply need more information about, you are in the right place. Why is doing your search online such a good idea? Keep reading to find out more.

Maritime Documentation
If you plan to own and operate a boat, a vessel name search is going to be a necessary part of the process. This is particularly true if you are interested in running a commercial fishing business or if you plan to sail your boat in international waters. A name search will give you the information you need to know about a boat, whether you already own it or are planning to buy it. This information includes origin, any mortgages or liens on the boat, the boat’s name, identifying numbers, and other information you’ll need to register and operate the vessel.

It’s Fast and Easy
It wasn’t always so simple to find out information about a boat. Before the internet, this process was long and arduous and you would have to wait to get the data you need for quite a while. Now, you can simply do a name search online, which speeds up the process dramatically. Turnaround time is also shorter and you can often find what you need in just 24 hours. Our online staff is well experienced and knowledgeable with maritime documentation and can assist you with a name search, in addition to many other paperwork needs, including transfer of ownership, boat name changes, and paperwork renewal. The process can be expedited if you need so you’re never waiting around for weeks or months to get the information necessary.

Current and Relevant Information
Because so much maritime documentation is done online these days, you can count on your vessel name search to provide the most current and accurate data regarding the boat in question. It’s easy to locate what you need and have it in your hands in a short time frame, taking a lot of the waiting around out of the process. In the Vessel Documentation Online, you have access to any and all of the paperwork you need for any boat that is registered.

It’s Affordable and Safe
Gone are the days of having to laboriously fill out a vessel name search by hand, then mail a check and wait for the results. Now you can get the information quickly and safely. No need to

mail money and hope it gets where it’s going. You can now pay for the search online, using a safe and secure portal that protects your private data. Not only that, but you can make your request anywhere, anytime, using your laptop, tablet, or smartphone.

Are you ready to do a Coast Guard-documented vessel search? Do you need more information about the process? Contact the Vessel Documentation Online today and we can guide you through each step.

What Is A Letter Of Deletion For A Coast Guard Certificate Of Documentation?

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.

When Is Coast Guard Registration Renewal Required?

When you own a boat, it must be registered in some capacity for legal reasons. It’s important to know that this registration must be renewed from time to time. But how will you know it’s time? Typically you will be notified when Coast Guard registration renewal is getting close. However, there are also some things you can keep in mind that will alert you when it’s time to get your renewal taken care of. Doing so in a timely manner is important for keeping your paperwork legal and current. Here’s what you need to know.

If Your Current Registration is Expired
This happens to the best of us and can happen when life gets busy and renewing your boat documentation slips your mind. It’s a good idea to check your paperwork to remind yourself when renewal is necessary. However, you might also consider putting a reminder into your phone or email that will alert you when the time comes. While you can certainly still renew your boat documents if they are expired, you may have to pay additional fees to get it done.

If You Don’t Have a Current Registration or Title
If you can’t find your registration or title, you may be up for renewal and not even know it. If you have any doubt about the status of your boat’s documentation, you need to have it renewed as soon as possible. Without proper paperwork, it is illegal to operate your boat on the water and you could face fines or your vessel could be seized. Depending on where your boat is registered, you may have to wait a few weeks for registration renewal to go through, so it’s best to start the process as quickly as possible.

If the Names Don’t Match
If you have recently purchased your boat, it’s important to renew all documentation so the name on the paperwork is the same as the name on the hull. This should be done as soon after you buy the vessel as possible. It’s imperative that the names match so if you choose to change the name or otherwise alter the hull, you will need to renew the paperwork so the names coordinate. Even if the documentation has not expired, this is necessary anytime the names are different.

If You Have Lost or Damaged Your Documents
If you have lost your registration or the paperwork has been damaged, it’s time to renew. Using expired or illegible documents can result in a citation so it’s best to have them renewed if they get wet, otherwise damaged or you lose them. Without this paperwork, you could also struggle to sell the boat if you ever decide to do so. If you lose your boat documentation, it’s best to renew it as soon as possible and be sure to take any steps necessary to ensure that personal data isn’t jeopardized.

It’s easy to let boat documentation renewal slip your mind, but timely Coast Guard registration renewal is an important part of being a responsible boat owner. Need help getting it done? Contact the Vessel Documentation Online to get started.

When Do You Need A Transfer Of Ownership Form?

Millions of people go boating in the United States every year so it’s no surprise that you might want to sell your boat and buy a different one at some point in time. In either case, there will need to be a transfer of ownership form, whether you are transferring ownership of a boat or purchasing a vessel that is being transferred to you. Wondering how the process works? Keep reading to find out.

Proving Ownership
To successfully transfer ownership of your boat, you will need to prove ownership. This can be done using a state title, a bill of sale, or the United States Coast Guard documentation. Even if your boat is not registered, or you are selling it “as is,” you can use a bill of sale to prove that you currently own it and are legally able to sell it. The transfer of ownership may vary from state to state, so keep that in mind if you are using a state title to prove ownership.

Where to Find the Transfer of Ownership Form
For most purposes, transfer of ownership becomes necessary for vessels registered with the United States Coast Guard, which are generally those that are at least 26 feet long and measure 5 net tons. In this case, you can find the form on the right side of the Vessel Documentation Online website. Navigate to the transfer/exchange tab to find the transfer of ownership form. Click on the form and you will be directed to where to input the necessary information to finalize the form.

Information Necessary to Complete the Form
Before filling out a transfer of ownership form, you will need to have some important data handy. That includes the vessel name and hailing port, the hull identification number, as well as your personal contact information. That includes your name, address, and other ways to get in touch with you. You will then have to identify the purpose of the request. You can pay the fees when you submit the document. Then you simply need to wait for approval. This form also allows you to add or remove owners or change the name and hailing port associated with the boat.

Things to Keep in Mind
Some final considerations can help ensure a speedy and efficient transfer of ownership. Be sure you double-check the information before submitting the form. Correcting errors can extend the waiting time for approval and can result in additional fees. Do the same before you accept the transfer of ownership for a boat you are buying. This cuts down on hassle down the road if you detect an error after being boarded or are ready to sell the boat to someone else. It’s better to spend a few extra minutes checking for mistakes before submission. A completed transfer of ownership form is an important part of buying or selling a boat. It needs to be completed in a timely manner so that you are operating a boat legally. If you have questions or need assistance getting through the process, you are in the right place. Contact the Vessel Documentation Online and we can guide you through each step.

Why Boat Size Matters To The Us Coast Guard

Why does the United States Coast Guard care about boat size? The main reason is that the size determines eligibility to register with the USCG. But the number of passengers that can safely ride on the boat at one time also plays a role. This is for the protection of the boat owner, as well as anyone who boards his or her boat. Understanding these regulations is part of being a responsible boat owner. This handy guide contains all of the information you need.

Eligibility to Register Your Boat with the United States Coast Guard
If you want to register your boat with the USCG, it must meet certain size requirements. The main one to keep in mind is that the vessel must weigh at least 5 net tons. This is a volume measurement, not a weight measurement. In general, if the boat is 27 feet or longer, you can assume that it weighs 5 net tons or more. However, if you would like accurate measurements, you can procure them before pursuing U.S. Coast Guard registration.

Boat Capacity
Another reason why the USCG cares about the size of your boat is for a safe passenger capacity. Many boats have a capacity plate that gives you this information. If yours does not, there is a simple calculation you can use to figure this out. The formula is as follows:

Number of people = vessel length (ft.) x vessel width (ft.) ÷ 15

You can use the measurements of your boat and a basic calculator to determine the answer, which is the maximum number of passengers that can be on board your boat at any given time. For example, a boat that is 4 feet wide and 12 feet long has a maximum capacity of 3 passengers. This number allows you to safely transport people, as well as cargo, safety equipment, fuel, engine, and steering, as well as other necessary items you might need on the water. This number is called the Maximum Gross Load and cannot be exceeded. Doing so compromises the safety of yourself and your passengers but could also result in fines if you are caught. Look at the capacity plate for more information about the maximum gross load.

Factors That Play a Role in Boat Capacity
If you have a capacity plate on your boat, you may be wondering why it’s determined the way it is. The formula above is your best indicator, but there are some other factors that also play a role. Boat capacity assumes that each passenger weighs 150 pounds. That means that if any of your passengers weigh more than that, you may have to reduce the total number of individuals on board your boat at a given time. Likewise, if you are transporting heavy or additional cargo, you may not be able to transport passengers at the same time.

Boat size is an important consideration and one to keep in mind anytime you are out on the water. Do you need more information? Contact the Vessel Documentation Online today and we will help you determine the numbers, as well as walk you through the process of registering your vessel with the United States Coast Guard.

The Marad Small Vessel Waiver Program Explained In Simple Terms

The MARAD waiver deals with commercial boats operating in the United States. It falls under the Jones Act and requires that boats used in commerce be built in the United States, though there are a few exceptions that allow for foreign-made vessels. The Passenger Vessel Services Act is another part of the Jones Act and specifically, the MARAD small vessel waiver program allows for MARAD to waive the requirement that boats be built in the United States. Keep reading to find out more.

What are the Eligibility Requirements?
There are certain requirements that must be met to be eligible for the small vessel waiver. Understanding what they are can help you determine if you should take the time to apply for the program. To be eligible, your vessel must:

Be owned by a citizen or entity in the United States
Be at least three years old
Be used to carry passengers only
Have a capacity of 12 passengers, when in service
Adhere to United States Coast Guard guidelines
There’s also the consideration of marine diesel engines. If your marine diesel engine is certified by the United States Environmental Protection Agency as a recreational vessel, you may not be able to use it to transport passengers in a commercial capacity.

How Does the Program Work?
There are a couple of steps you can take to apply for the MARAD small vessel waiver. It’s faster and easier to apply online, but you also have the option to apply by mail. If you use the online system, you can also pay the fee at the same time. Here’s how the process works:

Fill out and submit the waiver application (online or by mail)
A public notice is issued by MARAD, which lasts for 30 days and includes about the vessel and its intended use
MARAD will investigate the vessel and its impact on commerce in the United States
If approved, you will be issued the waiver
The waiver should be included with the other boat documentation and kept in a safe and dry location on board the vessel
You can expect the entire process, from submission of the application to issuance of the waiver (if approved) to take between two and three months. Keep this in mind if you plan to use your vessel for commerce, as you won’t be allowed to operate it as such until you have the approval and documentation to go with it.

Reasons for Denial
There are a couple of reasons why you may experience a small vessel waiver denial.

The introduction of the vessel would have a negative impact on commerce in the area
The boat is intended for use in commercial fishing, cargo, towing, dredging, or salvage
Any indication of fraud (a waiver can be revoked if fraud is discovered after approval)
If you know that your vessel will be denied, it’s not worth the $500 fee or the time and effort to apply.

Do you need more help navigating the MARAD small vessel waiver program? You’re in the right place. Contact the Vessel Documentation Online today with all of your questions.

Coast Guard Requirements Every Boat Owner Needs To Know

The United States Coast Guard is an entity within the government that rules over the use of recreational and commercial boats in US waters and certain areas beyond them. Registering your boat with the USCG has advantages and, in some cases, may be legally required. However, not all boats need to be registered or are eligible for registration with the Coast Guard. There’s more than one Coast Guard requirement and you need to be familiar with them as a responsible boat owner.

Hull Identification Number (HIN)
This is a number that is unique to your vessel, much like the vehicle identification number on your car, truck, or SUV. It is associated with your boat and is on much of the documentation that you will have for your vessel. You will use it to register your boat and on many of the other paperwork associated with owning a boat in the United States. The number contains two letters to start, followed by 11 numbers. You will know it’s an official HIN because it usually says “USCGC” before the letters and numbers.

Certificates of Documentation
A Certificate of Documentation is required for any boat registered with the United States Coast Guard, whether you build it, buy it now, or purchase a used vessel. Once you complete registration, you will then submit an Application for a Certificate of Documentation. In some cases, you may also need to submit an application for an individual letter of authorization. Once approved, you’ll get the certificate that proves you have submitted all necessary paperwork. Be sure to keep the certificate somewhere safe and dry on your boat, along with the other documentation associated with it.

Changing Information on Your Certificate of Documentation
Sometimes it’s necessary to change a name or the contact information on the Certificate of Documentation. For legal and protection reasons, it’s best to do this as soon as possible. You will have to fill out a form that allows you to change your name and contact information, which is then submitted to the US Coast Guard. Once received, the USCG will update the data in the system and issue you a new Certificate of Documentation with the current information on it. Keep in mind that it’s against the law to operate a boat more than three miles outside United States waters without the owner’s permission, so making sure the correct name is on the certificate will save a lot of trouble.

Lost or Damaged Paperwork
It is necessary to have your Certificate of Documentation on board your boat at all times so if yours is damaged or lost, it’s imperative to get a new one right away. You can’t sell your boat with your documentation so keep that in mind too. You can apply for a replacement document on the Coast Guard’s website.

Making sure you follow everything on the Coast Guard requirement list is an important part of owning a boat. It’s a good idea to be familiar with the rules so that you can abide by them or take action if you find that you aren’t. The US Vessel Documentation Center is here to help. Contact us today and we can help you determine which requirement needs your attention and how to get the job done.