If you own a boat or are buying a boat and you want to know if you can change the boat name at the same time that you change the hailing port, the good news is that it’s not hard to do. Doing both together takes some of the time and effort involved away and helps you complete the process. If you’re unsure where to start or what the steps are, finding an online expert to guide you is a great idea. In the meantime, here’s what you need to know about changing a boat name and hailing port at the same time.
Ownership Documentation
Before you can change where your boat hails from or the name of the boat, you must have the proper paperwork that proves you are the owner of the boat. It’s important to keep a copy of this documentation on your boat so it should be simple to find. You won’t be able to start the process without this paperwork so it’s a good idea to have it handy when you get started.
Choosing a Name
No matter why you have chosen to change the boat’s name, you must do a bit of research before you can legally change the name. It must be unique, meaning no other boats are called the same thing. You need to make sure the name isn’t under a trademark. There are also guidelines about what you can call your boat in terms of using appropriate language and avoiding offensive words. If the name of your boat is already being used, the United States Coast Guard won’t allow you to use it and you’ll have to choose something else.
Boat Registration Number
Your boat’s name and its registration number go together so it makes sense that you can’t change the name without having that number available. Every boat has its own unique number that is used to identify it and changing the name requires it to be registered under the new name, but with the same registration number. This is how authorities can determine ownership. You can find your registration number on your Certificate of Documentation. The same is true for changing the port of origin. The registration number identifies the boat’s hailing port and it cannot be changed without that number.
Check and Check, Again
Before you submit paperwork to change the hailing port or name of your boat, take time to go over all of the information carefully. Mistakes in spelling or location can result in additional costs to fix the error and will delay the completion of the documentation. You might consider having a third party have a look at the paperwork before you submit it to help catch any mistakes. Not only will this save you time and money, but it cuts down on the stress and frustration of making changes to your boat.
If you’re prepared with the proper information and have a new name and hailing port picked out, you can complete the process of making changes online. This is helpful because it speeds up the process. If you want to change a boat name or hailing port and need help facilitating the process, contact Vessel Documentation Online for all of the assistance you need.