The national form of registration in the United States, it’s actually one of the oldest functions of the American government. The 11th Act of the First Congress, documentation provides for commerce that is unhindered between the states. Furthermore, for international purposes, it provides conclusive evidence of nationality. For certain restricted trades, such as coastwide and fisheries trade, it admits vessels. Vessel financing has been enhanced through the availability of preferred mortgages on documented vessels for more than a century.