How to tell
A documented vessel has an official number permanently marked inside the hull and a Certificate of Documentation. The boat's name and hailing port are usually on the exterior.
What you sign
You sign a Coast Guard bill of sale transferring the vessel to us. We file the transfer with the National Vessel Documentation Center.
Mortgages
If a preferred ship mortgage is recorded, it must be satisfied and released before the transfer is recorded.
State registration
Some states require documented vessels to be registered as well. We handle any state registration changes.
Why boats are documented
Documentation is required for some commercial vessels and optional for recreational boats of five net tons or more. Owners often document for international travel or financing.
Documentation and state registration
Some states require documented boats to also register and display a state decal. The name and hailing port are displayed on the hull instead of state numbers.
Name changes
New owners may rename a documented boat. You do not need to do anything about the name.
Questions
My documentation has expired. Is that a problem?
Usually not. It can be renewed or the vessel can be moved to state titling.
Do I need to cancel the documentation?
No. We handle the transfer.
Is the process slower?
It can take a bit longer, but pickup does not have to wait.
Where is the official number?
Marked permanently on an interior structural part of the hull.
Can a documented vessel have a state title too?
Generally not. Documentation takes the place of a state title.