I'VE SOLD MY DOCUMENTED VESSEL, WHAT DO I DO NEXT?
You need to provide the buyer with a Bill of Sale to intiate transfer. We can provide this for you.

I'VE PURCHASED A DOCUMENTED VESSEL, WHAT DO I DO NEXT?
The first step we recommend is to order an abstract, prior to closing to verify ownership, outstanding liens and other pertinent information.

WHY DOES MY BANK WANT ME TO DOCUMENT MY VESSEL?
The bank is interested in recording a First Preferred Ships Mortgage to perfect their lien. This document is enforceable throughout the U.S., it's territories and some foreign countries.

HOW DO I FIND OUT OWNERSHIP INFORMATION ABOUT A DOCUMENTED VESSEL?
You need to order an abstract of title to clearly identify the managing owner and other potential owners.

HOW DO I FIND OUT IF THERE IS AN OUTSTANDING LIEN ON A VESSEL?
The abstract of title shows all lienholders, the original mortgage amount, and their address.

I'M GOING TO USE MY BOAT FOR FISHING CHARTER (or other charter; Dredge, Transportation)
DOES IT HAVE TO BE DOCUMENTED?
Yes, the Coast Guard requires all commercial use vessels to be documented. In addition, the vessel must have the appropriate endorsement, ie: coastwise, registry, etc.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO DOCUMENT A VESSEL?
Generally, if all the paperwork is in order the Coast Guard returns the Certificate of Documentation within 6-8 weeks.

I'M THINKING OF DOCUMENTING MY RECREATIONAL BOAT.
WHAT ARE THE PRO'S AND CON'S?
There are many Pro's and Con's. A few include a national system of registration, instead of state titles, as well as perhaps some tax savings. Check with your state concerning preferred tax status for documented vessels.

THERE ARE SEVERAL COMPANIES ON THE INTERNET OFFERING DOCUMENTATION SERVICES. HOW DO I CHOOSE?
We recommend calling a couple of firms and asking questions. Let your good judgement guide you. Many documentation firms are a part of a financial institution or a dealers' in-house support staff. We are independent of all boat dealers, brokers, banks and insurance companies. That way we're able to offer totally unbiased advice and service.

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