Do you need a boat bill of sale but don’t know where to find one? Do you know what goes into a bill of sale in the first place? If you go through our site, you’ll find that, no, there is no form for a bill of sale. There’s a reason for that: there’s no set, legal form for one. A strong majority are made by the owner, the seller, etc. The experts at our National Documentation Portal wanted to take this opportunity to tell you what should be in a bill of sale for a boat.
While there isn’t an “official” bill of sale document endorsed by the Coast Guard, we can guide you on what information should be included and assist you in the processing.
Why You Need a Boat Bill of Sale
Essentially, it serves to validate ownership rights. While it may not definitively establish ownership, having a bill of sale can be a valuable supporting document. It’s important to note that this form is not for documented vessels, those who have been documented with the United States Coast Guard.
Instead, this form is for the selling of vessels that have not been documented. If your vessel is documented, then, to sell it, you’ll need a “Transfer/Exchange” form. That we offer at our site.
What’s Included in a Bill of Sale
You’ll need a few important details for a bill of sale. This includes the names of all parties involved, encompassing not just names but also license numbers and complete addresses. Beyond personal details, specific information about the boat is imperative, such as its make, model, and identification number.
Any aftermarket modifications, regardless of their scale, should be documented, too. Crucially, the details of the sale itself, including the agreed-upon price, should be explicitly stated in the document to preempt potential issues in the future.
Steps to Take After the Sale
Assuming the sale proceeds smoothly and both parties are content, it’s crucial not to conclude with just a handshake (although the handshake is a good idea). Secure the signatures of all parties involved and consider obtaining written proof of your agreement, which can be incorporated into the bill of sale.
Make multiple copies of the document, including digital copies stored on your phone, computer, or cloud, as well as physical copies.
All of the Documents You’ll Need
While the “Bill of Sale” isn’t an officially designated form by the USCG, our site offers access to many necessary official forms. Should you choose to document your vessels, you can find the forms here for renewal, replacement, reinstatement, deletion, or any other aspect of vessel ownership compliance. In fact, you can find the forms to initially document your vessel here, too.
Whether you’re navigating the intricacies of ownership or seeking assistance with documentation, our vessel documentation service is here to guide you through the process. To see everything we offer for documented vessels, click here.