Ship documentation is not just a bureaucratic formality. Rather, it is also a crucial legal requirement that holds immense significance. The National Vessel Documentation Center (NVDC) administers it but it is under the United States Coast Guard. It plays a vital role in ensuring that every boat owner complies with the requirements. The requirements are implemented to make sure that every boat is safe while traveling in and out of the US waters.
The Importance of Ship Documentation
This legal document grants legal recognition of the ownership and nationality of your vessel. It makes sure that your boat complies with the laws and regulations governing maritime activities. It provides a legal foundation for its operation.
International Recognition
Documented vessels enjoy international recognition. It is especially crucial if your boat is engaged in foreign trade or travel. Documentation provides evidence of your vessel’s nationality. It also facilitates entry into foreign ports and ensures compliance with international regulations.
Preferred Ship Mortgages
If you are going to borrow money to finance the purchase of your boat, the lender may need you to submit a certificate of documentation. In other words, it is a prerequisite to obtaining a preferred ship mortgage. It is a type of financing that lets you secure loans using the vessel as collateral. This financial instrument is valuable for you as a vessel owner who seeks capital for improvements, acquisitions, or business operations.
Clear Title
This documentation also establishes a clear record of a boat’s ownership. The COD serves as evidence of the title. It also prevents disputes and provides a transparent ownership history for potential buyers or financiers.
Enables Buying and Selling
When you buy or sell a vessel, you need proper documentation. With this document, it streamlines the legal transfer of ownership. It also ensures that the transaction is recognized by maritime authorities. It establishes the new owner’s legal rights to the vessel.
Enhances Marketability
Every documented vessel has enhanced marketability and resale value. If you are selling your boat, potential buyers are more inclined to engage in transactions involving vessels with documented ownership because of the legal framework that it provides.
Access to Certain Trades
Some trades require vessels to be documented. This is especially true if you are engaged in coastwise trade. For instance, if you are using it as a fishing vessel and engaged in certain fisheries, this document is necessary. Proper documentation is vital for vessels in specific types of trade or industry activities.
Legal Protections
Documented vessels enjoy legal protections under maritime law. This includes the ability to seek legal remedies for damages sustained during maritime activities. Your documented boat can also access certain legal advantages in case of disputes.
Maintain Legal Standing
Documenting your boat is not a one-time thing. You need to renew it every year. The renewal process is now easier because you do not have to go to the NVDC or USCG to submit your application. You can just use our website and the forms we provide here. From there, you can fill out the right form and pay the necessary fee. Once we have checked your submission, we will forward your application to the right authority.
Ship documentation has become quicker and faster with the use of our system. If you need further help in finding the right form to fill out, make sure to contact our experts. We are more than happy to help you.