Uscg Hailing Port Requirements: Does My Hailing Port Have To Be In The State Of Registration?

There is a set of USCG hailing port requirements that you should be aware of when you register your boat. Knowing what they are and how to comply with them is an important part of being a responsible boat owner. At the same time, it ensures that your documentation is current and accurate with the correct associated information listed on each piece of paperwork. Here’s what you need to know.

What is a Hailing Port?
The hailing port is the designated place where your boat claims its origin. This can be anywhere the owner of the vessel chooses and can be coastal or landlocked. This location is included on your registration. The hailing port is going to be where you store your boat when it’s not in the water and there are additional requirements on a state basis, so be sure you investigate the guidelines in the state where you plan to claim your hailing port.

USCG Hailing Port Requirements for Designation
When you register your boat, you must choose a hailing port to go along with it. This will be marked on the vessel itself, as well as needing to be reported on most documentation associated with the boat. Here are requirements:

The hailing port must be in the United States that is included in the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Federal Information Processing Standards Publication.
The hailing port must include the state, possession or territory where it is located.
Final authority to settle disputes dealing with designated hailing ports is the Director, National Vessel Documentation Center.
When choosing a new hailing port, the above requirements don’t apply to vessels with a Certificate of Documentation issued before July 1, 1982

Hailing Port Marking Requirements
There is also a set of guidelines that go along with displaying your hailing port on your vessel. It’s important to adhere to these carefully so that you don’t have to pay fines or penalties as a result of displaying them incorrectly. The rules are as follows:

The name of your hailing port must be somewhere easily visible on the exterior of your boat on the port and starboard bow, as well as the stern of the vessel.
For boats with a square bow, the hailing port must be clearly visible on the exterior of the bow in such a way that it is not obliterated by any other part of the boat. It must also be clearly marked on a visible portion of the stern.
For vessels used only for recreational purposes, the hailing port must be displayed in a clearly visible location on the boat’s hull.
Markings must be durable and clearly legible.
Characters must be Latin or Arabic letters and Roman numerals.
Characters must be at least 4 inches in height.
Do you have more questions about the USCG hailing port requirements? We’re here to answer your questions and guide you through the process of choosing and declaring a hailing port. Contact the US Vessel Documentation Center today for all of the help you need.

My Boat Is Wrecked. What Maritime Documentation Do I Need To Submit?

Sometimes damage happens to your boat, be it due to a collision, a natural disaster or other reasons. No matter the cause, you’re probably wondering what maritime documentation is required as you work through repairs, insurance claims and the other steps that go along with dealing with a wrecked vessel. If the boat is not salvageable, you will need to have it deleted from the United States Coast Guard database. Use this guide to help you through each step in the process.

How to Delete Your Vessel from the US Coast Guard Database and What Maritime Documentation is Required?
Start by filing a Letter of Deletion with the United States Coast Guard, along with paying any fees that go along with it. This will remove personally identifiable information from the relevant databases, including the Coast Guard and NOAA and will remove your hull identification number from active records. Here are some additional considerations:

Deletion can be requested by the vessel owner or an authorized agent acting on behalf of the owner.
If there is a mortgage on the vessel, you may need to provide a release signed by the mortgage holder.
If the application for deletion is accompanied by a complete bill of sale, that may be used as evidence to transfer ownership (to a salvage yard or insurance company, for example).
Information Needed on a Letter of Deletion
Being sure you include all relevant information on your letter of deletion streamlines the process and ensures that it goes smoothly and efficiently and happens in a timely manner. The following information needs to be included when you submit the documentation:

Vessel name
Vessel official number
Hailing port
Hull identification number (HIN)
Information about any outstanding mortgages
Managing owner data (if applicable)
Reason for the deletion
Remember that you will also need to pay the fee associated with submitting a letter of deletion, both of which are steps you can take online.

Coastwide and Fishery Privileges
If your wrecked boat was used for fishing purposes, there are some additional steps to be aware of if you plan to submit a letter of deletion to the United States Coast Guard. They include the following:

Evidence of the occasion and location of the wreck (USCG investigation report, for example)
Written explanation of the wreck, including the location of the vessel, associated costs, liabilities and expenses
Proof of United States ownership

Your wrecked boat will be appraised by three parties, each of which is appointed by the Direction, National Vessel Documentation Center. The salvage amount is then determined and will need to be kept in mind as you move forward with the process of removing the boat from the relevant databases. The more detailed information you can provide, the better for all parties involved. Good evidence, both written and photographic, is also important to have on hand as you submit your letter of deletion.

Managing maritime documents can sometimes be overwhelming and getting the help you need can get you through the process. Contact the US Vessel Documentation Center today for all of the assistance you need.

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, you are in the right place. Use this guide to find out everything you need to know.

What Information Does a Builder’s Certificate of a Boat Contain?
Important information comes in a boat builder’s certificate, including the manufacturer, model, hull identification number (HIN), date of production and other vital data pertaining to the vessel. You might also find data about the boat’s compliance with the standards and regulations that are relevant, something that is really important for registering the boat and transferring ownership.

Where Does the Document Come From?
In most cases, when you buy a new boat, the boat builder’s certificate comes from the manufacturer and is necessary for registration. It’s also part of recording the boat’s history and proving its origin during a sale or transfer or ownership. There are varying requirements for the format of a boat builder’s certificate so it’s important to check with your local jurisdiction to make sure you are doing it correctly.

Who Uses a Builder’s Certificate of a Boat?
Various parties use the certificate, including those involved with ownership, registration and transfer and transactions in the case of a sale of the vessel. Keeping the documentation pertaining to your boat on hand at all times makes it simple to prove that you have it and are the legal owner of the boat, if that’s ever in question. Listed below are the main parties involved with the certificate:

Boat owners – this proves the boat’s origin and authenticity when you register the boat and establishes legal ownership and could be required for licensing and documentation reasons.
Boat sellers – the seller provides the boat builder’s certificate to any potential buyers and demonstrates compliance with regulations, as well as the history of the boat.
Boat buyers – a buyer uses the certificate to verify authenticity and origin, as well as compliance with all regulations.
Boating authorities – this includes any government entity responsible for monitoring involved in registering boats, as well as any boating activity the boat takes part in
Insurance companies – when creating a boat insurance policy, the certificate proves authenticity and boat specifications.
Financial institutions – this may be required to secure a loan to pay for the purchase of the boat.
Law enforcement – if a boat is stolen or ownership is in question, law enforcement may need the certificate as part of the investigation into where the boat is and who it belongs to.

Now that you know all of the facts about a builders certificate of a boat, you may be wondering how to get through the process. That’s what we’re here for. Contact the US Vessel Documentation Center today and we can guide you through each of the steps, from start to finish.

Can You Register A Boat Without A Title?

Can you register a boat without a title? That’s a great question and you are in the right place to find out. It’s no secret that registering a boat is much easier when you have a title on hand, but it’s not impossible without one. If you have recently purchased a boat and there’s no title to be found, this guide can help you determine what to do next and how to complete the task anyway.

What are the Challenges?
It’s definitely challenging to register a boat without a title. There are a couple of challenges to face along the way. That includes proving ownership and getting around the issue of missing documentation. Without a proper title, you’re going to have to find an alternate way to prove that you own the boat you just purchased. Keep reading to find out how to do that.

How to Prove Ownership: “Can You Register a Boat Without a Title” You May Ask
The boat’s title is the easiest way to prove ownership, but without it, you must find a different way to do so. Fortunately, there are several ways you can go about this, including the following:

Bill of sale – this legally transfers ownership from one person to another and includes important information about the vessel
Registration documents – this shows that the boat is registered in your name, proving that you own it
Insurance documents – this is another way to prove ownership
It’s also important to keep in mind that not all sellers will comply with the above options and you may need to prove ownership in an additional way. Examples might be:

Unopened letter of request through the mail
Multiple attempts to contact the seller
Documentation of all communication
Finding legal advice
Dealing With Missing Documentation
Some kind of documentation is necessary to get a new title. In some cases, a surety bond can replace documents. What are the steps to doing this? Read below to find out:

Research state requirements
Gather alternative documents
Complete the associated paperwork
Special Cases
There are several special cases that you should also be aware of. These require special steps and you can find out what they are by contacting the officials in the state in which you reside. They might be one of the following:

Registering an abandoned boat
Registering a homemade boat
Out of state registration
International boat registration

Liens and Disputes
Another consideration is liens and disputes. If this applies to your boat, you will need to contact the lienholder to create a payment plan. However, you should always check for the presence of liens before you buy a boat. When disputes arrive, get legal assistance. You should also check the current registration before you start the purchase process.

Now that you know the answer to, “can you register a boat without a title,” you need to know who to turn to when you need help. It can be overwhelming to buy a boat and get through everything that needs to be done. Contact the US Vessel Documentation Center today and we can guide you through the process, from start to finish.

A Timely Reminder Of The Importance Of Vessel Documentation Renewal

Vessel documentation renewal is an important part of owning a boat and staying on top of it is a responsible step that you must be aware of. After all, if you don’t have the proper documentation on hand, you may find yourself facing fees and penalties that will keep you from enjoying your time on the water. In order to operate your water safely and legally, here’s what you need to know about keeping your documentation up to date.

Vessel Documentation Renewal Legal Requirements
It’s a legal requirement to have current paperwork so it’s vital to pay attention to expiration dates and apply for document renewal well ahead of time to prevent a lapse. Hitting the water without your documentation can cause problems, which include fees and penalties. Your certification proves legal compliance, so keep them handy at all times.

Avoid Penalties
Avoiding penalties is one of the best reasons to update your documentation. Getting caught on the water without your current documentation basically means you are out of legal compliance and will be charged fees as a result. For peace of mind and to save money, it’s best to pay attention to expiration dates for documentation.

Financial Security
You naturally don’t want to pay any more money in fees than you have to, so keeping finances in mind is a responsible part of owning a boat. If you want to finance your boat or get insurance to cover it, you must have current paperwork. In other words, safeguarding your finances means updating documentation, as necessary.

What’s Involved in the Renewal Process?
Documentation renewal can be an overwhelming process, but it doesn’t have to be. Understanding the steps involved streamlines the entire task and makes it much easier for you. Here’s what’s involved:

Find the correct form
Fill it out and check for mistakes and error
Submit the documentation
Pay the fees
Why Renew?
Timely renewal has many benefits, including avoiding paying fees and penalties for failing to stay on top of it. There are also other advantages to keeping your vessel documentation current and accurate. That includes the following:

Access to international waters – you can’t enter foreign ports without updated documentation
Resale value – current paperwork means a higher resale value if you decide to sell your boat
Environmentally responsible – following USCG requirements means pollution prevention and waste management and current paperwork allows for monitoring and compliance with these efforts on your part.

Nautical Responsibility
Adhering to USCG requirements is part of your responsibility as the owner of a boat and means you are a positive part of the boating community. Staying current with your paperwork also allows for enjoying your time on the water and getting the most out of it. Whether you’ve been on the water for years, or you’re entirely new to it, you owe yourself the responsibility of keeping your documentation current, so make it a part of your habit, starting right away.

Do you need help with the vessel documentation renewal process? You are in the right place. Contact the US Vessel Documentation Center today and we will guide you through each step, from start to finish.

How To Sell A Boat Privately By Maximizing Its Resale Value

Unlike a road vehicle, a boat won’t necessarily depreciate in value as soon as it gets out on the water. Within 5 years, a boat’s value will decrease between 25 percent and 35 percent, as compared to a car, truck or SUV, which depreciates approximately 60 percent in that time frame. If you plan to resell a boat anytime soon, it makes sense to have some idea of how to sell a boat privately by maximizing its resale value. Read below to find out how.

Regular Maintenance
A well-cared for boat is worth more than one that isn’t. Regular maintenance includes keeping the boat covered and clean, performing regular inspections, repairing problems as they arise, keeping paint in good shape, etc. A checklist can help you stay on top of this.

Consistent Cleaning
Wiping your boat down, inside and outside, cleaning drains, upholstery and storage areas, as well as keeping the boat clean in well used areas, ensures that it looks its best and you can detect potential issues, should they arise.

Upgrade Your Systems
Upgraded navigation and electrical systems increase the value of your boat, so consider this step if you want to sell it anytime soon. Quality and current technology makes your boat more attractive to potential buyers.

How to Sell a Boat Privately: Importance of Inspections and Certifications
Having the paperwork in order is vital for selling a boat. Staying up to date with your documentation and certifications is part of being responsible so stay on top of it.

When You Sell a Boat Privately Pay Attention to the Engine
The more you drive the boat, the more the engine needs attention. Take good care of your engine and upgrade as needed so that you get the most resale value you can when you sell your vessel.

Upgrade and Fix
Anytime there are problems or repairs needed, it’s best to take care of it right away. That includes corrosion, engine troubles, and basic appearance issues.

Hire a Boat Broker
This person will work with the boat buyer and seller to help both negotiate the most attractive terms for the sale. A broker can also help you advertise your boat to get the most interest for it.

When the Time is Right
Certain times of year are naturally better to sell a boat than others. Spring or summer are a good time to list your boat for sale, with February to June being the peak season for buying and selling a boat.

Get a Boat History Report
Before buying a boat, it’s a good idea to get a boat history report that tells you what you need to know about it so that you can decide if it’s a good buy or not, in terms of value. A history will tell you about previous ownership, maintenance records, etc.

If you need help with figuring out how to sell a boat privately, we are here to help you facilitate the entire process. Contact the US Vessel Documentation Center today for all of the assistance you need.