When you get the opportunity to buy a large boat, whether it’s for recreational or commercial purposes, it’s an important financial investment for you. Because it is so significant, you want to make sure that you do all your homework before buying, and then do everything you can to protect your investment properly after the sale. Once everything is finalized, you may want to consider getting your vessel documented. The steps needed to go through for United States Coast Guard documentation vary, depending on several factors, and you may need the help of our services at U.S. Vessel Documentation Online to get everything done easily and properly.
Documenting a New Boat
If you purchase your vessel brand new, or if it’s a boat that has never been documented before, there are forms you need to fill out for the initial documentation of your boat. There is very specific information that you’ll need to provide to the Coast Guard regarding your vessel so that they can approve the application and provide you with your certificate of documentation. They will ask about owner information, proof of U.S. citizenship, where the boat was manufactured, and much more. You may want to take some time gathering the necessary information and documents so you have everything ready before you start to fill out forms.
Documenting a Pre-Owned Boat
United States Coast Guard documentation for a boat that was previously owned could be like buying a new boat if the vessel was never documented before. If there is previous documentation for the vessel, it will be necessary for you to file forms asking to transfer the documentation to you as the new owner. Again, there is a great deal of information required of you to fill out the form, and supporting documentation is necessary, including the bill of sale from the previous owner.
Confused about the Process?
If the United States Coast Guard documentation process seems confusing to you, or you are unsure about it, we at Vessel Documentation Online are here to help. We’re specialists in filing forms and paperwork with the Coast Guard, and you can fill out the necessary forms and paperwork on our website. We can then file on your behalf after our experts go over your forms to check for mistakes, errors or omissions. You can learn more about our services and get started on the process when you visit our website.
