USCG boat owners want a search method that is user-friendly, reasonable, and dependable while looking for a vessel documentation search. Because of this, we built a search engine specifically for vessel documentation. You can rapidly obtain the information you want using the Maritime Documentation Center’s search engine, which will enable you to go back out on the water. You may search using a name or hull number, and our system will provide you with results immediately. In addition, the information our engine uses is always the most recent version that can be found in the USCG database. Ensure not to put it off any longer; give our engine a go right now! The following are some arguments in favor of searching the documentation.
To Ensure the Boat Is Registered and In Good Standing with The Coast Guard
Registering a boat with the U.S. Coast Guard is known as “vessel documentation.” If you ever misplace your boat and need it returned, or if someone else discovers it and wants to return it to you, the Coast Guard has a record of your boat’s registration information, which is like a social security number. If authorities can match it with yours, your boat will be returned to you. The paperwork you keep aboard your boat will make it simpler for whoever discovers it to return it to you if it is lost.
No one will be in the dark as to who owns the boat, where it can be found, or what information they want to return it if there is paperwork. According to wi.gov, a person may sell their vessel only to those who have validated their identity via a vessel documentation search if they desire to get rid of it. Without verifying the buyer’s credentials, their vessel might be in another nation before they even realize it’s gone!! Nobody would benefit from that.
Vessel Documentation Search Helps Ensure There Are No Outstanding Liens or Mortgages on The Vessel
Verifying that the vessel is free of any existing liens or mortgages is necessary. For a variety of reasons, this piece of knowledge is critical. First and foremost, it implies that you are not purchasing a repossessed item from someone else. However, if you buy a boat assuming you have full ownership, only to discover that the previous owner still owes money, this might be a significant issue for you as a buyer.
This implies that if you’re ever unable to pay your loan, another firm may come after your boat to pay off whatever debt you couldn’t pay with its interest, which is why it’s essential to make sure your boat is lien-free. The last thing anybody wants to do is deal with it. In order to acquire a loan for your boat, the bank will almost definitely want documentation that the boat is not already under a mortgage or at least one with a current amount.
To Verify That the Boat Has Not Been Reported Lost or Stolen
Boats are not the same as vehicles in any way. When you purchase a boat, you will not get a title to the vessel. You will be given a receipt for the purchase of the vessel in addition to a bill of sale. When purchasing a boat, it is essential to be aware of the need to ensure that the boat has not been reported missing or stolen and that it has not been lost or stolen in the past. You can search for any vessel using Vessel Documentation Search and then find out whether or not it has been reported as lost or stolen, as well as determine whether or not it has a current maritime protection plan. You can search using the vessel’s name or hull identification number (HIN), among other data elements (such as if the boat is documented with USCG or not). On their map, you can even make out the precise position of the boat!
That All Safety Equipment Is Up To Date and Operable
Most boaters don’t have to worry about vessel paperwork since it’s already taken care of. Having a boat necessitates familiarizing yourself with the state’s paperwork needs. A vessel documentation search and CG-7123 (or CG-7008 for out-of-country boats) form must be completed and submitted for any vessel over 26 feet long, or if it has an engine above 25 horsepower, or when it changes ownership with the U.S. Coast Guard. Your registration information is verified by the Coast Guard using these forms. When you move, for example, you may use this form to notify the Coast Guard of your new location. Consult your local USCG/Coast Guard office to find out what size boat you have and if it has to be recorded.
Call the Maritime Documentation Center at 800-535-8570 if you need the proper paperwork for your ship. Many people believe this sort of information is difficult or costly, but we at the Maritime Documentation Center are here to assist you in getting what you need.