Essential Paperwork for Shipping a Speed Boat: Documentation Guide

Shipping a speedboat can be an exciting step toward new adventures on different waters. Before your boat hits the road, you’ll need to gather several important documents to ensure a smooth transport process.

To ship your speedboat legally and efficiently, you’ll need proper ownership documents, registration papers, and insurance verification. Having these papers ready before contacting transport companies can save you time and prevent potential delays. Proper preparation allows you to focus on the excitement of receiving your boat at its new destination rather than worrying about paperwork issues.

Motor Carrier Number

• When shipping a speed boat, you need to make sure your transport company has a Motor Carrier (MC) number. This is an identification number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
• The MC number proves that the carrier is authorized to transport cargo across state lines. It’s essential for interstate for-hire motor carriers who will be moving your boat.
• Before hiring a boat transport service, always ask for their MC number. You can verify this number on the FMCSA website to ensure the company is legitimate and properly registered.
• A valid MC number indicates that the carrier meets federal requirements for transporting cargo. This offers you protection and peace of mind when shipping your valuable speed boat.
• The MC number should appear on the shipping documents related to your boat transport. These documents might include manifests, freight bills, or charter orders.
• Remember that the MC number is different from a USDOT number, which is another important identifier for transportation companies. Both are typically required for interstate boat shipping.

USDOT Number

• When shipping a speed boat, you may need a USDOT Number depending on your transportation method. This unique identifier is issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to track and monitor commercial vehicles.
• If you’re hiring a professional transporter, they should already have a USDOT Number for their business. Check that they have this documentation before signing any contracts.
• If you’re transporting the boat yourself using your own vehicle, you might need to obtain a USDOT Number. This applies if you’re using a commercial vehicle that crosses state lines.
• The requirements depend on the weight of your combined vehicle and boat trailer. You can determine if you need one by checking the FMCSA guidelines.
• Your vehicle must display the USDOT Number if required. This can be done using vinyl decals or magnetic signs placed on both sides of the vehicle.
• Remember that Hazmat Shippers who don’t provide transport themselves don’t need a USDOT Number. However, boat transporters should have one along with proper insurance coverage.

Commercial Driver’s License

• When shipping a speed boat, the driver of the transport vehicle often needs a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). This special license allows drivers to operate large commercial vehicles like trucks used for boat transportation.
• To drive a commercial vehicle that will haul your speed boat, the driver must have the appropriate class of CDL. According to federal regulations, drivers have been required to have a CDL to operate certain commercial motor vehicles since April 1, 1992.
• The specific class of CDL needed depends on the combined weight of the truck and your boat. If the combined weight exceeds 26,001 pounds, a Class A CDL is typically required.
• When hiring a boat transport company, verify that their drivers possess valid CDLs. This ensures your boat is being transported legally and by qualified professionals.
• Some transport companies will also need to have a USDOT Number and Motor Carrier Number along with their CDL. These are important credentials that legitimate transporters should have.
• Remember that regulations may vary by state, so always check specific requirements for the states your boat will travel through.

Cargo and Commercial Liability Insurance

• When shipping your speedboat, you need proper insurance coverage to protect your investment. Cargo and Commercial Liability Insurance are essential requirements for legal boat transportation.
• Cargo insurance specifically covers your speedboat during transit. This protection helps if your boat gets damaged while being loaded, transported, or unloaded. Make sure the policy covers the full value of your vessel.
• Commercial liability insurance protects against damages to others during transport. If your boat causes damage to other property during shipping, this insurance will cover those costs.
• Transportation companies must have an MCS-90 endorsement attached to their liability and cargo policies. This is a federal requirement that ensures they can cover damages during interstate transport.
• When selecting a shipping company, always verify their insurance documentation. Ask for proof of both cargo and commercial liability coverage before signing any contracts.
• The coverage amounts should match the value of your speedboat. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about policy limits and deductibles to understand your protection fully.

Proof of Ownership

• When shipping a speed boat, you must have proper documentation that proves you own the vessel. The most common form of ownership proof is a valid certificate of registration, which must be current and match your identification.
• For new boats, a manufacturer’s certificate of origin serves as proof of ownership. This document comes from the boat manufacturer and transfers ownership to you as the first owner.
• If you purchased a used boat, you’ll need an executed bill of sale that clearly shows the transfer of ownership from the previous owner to you. Make sure all names, dates, and signatures are present and legible.
• Some larger vessels may have a federal marine document instead of state registration. This documentation serves the same purpose of establishing ownership.
• You should keep your certificate of registration onboard the vessel at all times, including during shipping. This allows for quick verification if authorities need to confirm ownership during transport.
• Always make copies of your ownership documents before shipping. Keep the originals in a safe place and provide copies to the shipping company for their records.

Bill of Sale

• A Bill of Sale is a crucial document when shipping a speed boat. This legal paper proves you’re the rightful owner of the vessel and records the transfer of ownership.
• Your boat’s Bill of Sale should include the date of sale and the complete purchase price. Many states require this information for proper tax calculation.
• The document must contain detailed information about your vessel. This includes the make, model, and Hull Identification Number (HIN).
• Don’t forget to include engine information and details about the trailer if it’s part of the sale. Any additional equipment should also be listed.
• Both buyer and seller information is essential. Names, addresses, and ID information should be clearly stated.
• Make sure both parties sign and date the document. Keep multiple copies – one for your records and one to accompany the boat during shipping.
• Some states have specific Bill of Sale forms. In Texas, for example, you’ll need to use their specific DMV form for boats and vessels.

Registration Documents

• When shipping a speed boat, proper registration documents are essential. You need to have your boat’s title and registration papers ready for the transportation process.
• The original title must be signed on both the front and back. Don’t purchase or ship a used vessel without receiving the original title and a signed bill of sale.
• Your boat registration card is also required. This shows proof that your boat is legally registered in your state.
• If your boat is coming from out of state, you may need to provide a pencil tracing or photograph of the hull identification number. This helps verify the boat’s identity during the shipping process.
• Always carry a current picture ID with you when handling boat registration matters. This is needed to prove your identity as the boat’s owner.
• Make sure all forms are completed fully before shipping. Incomplete paperwork can delay your boat’s transportation and cause unnecessary complications.
• Keep copies of all your registration documents for your records. This provides backup documentation in case anything is lost during shipping.

EPA Engine Declaration Form 3520-21

• When importing a speedboat into the United States, you must complete the EPA Engine Declaration Form 3520-21. This form proves that your boat’s engine meets the Environmental Protection Agency’s emissions standards.
• The form is required for all imported stationary, nonroad or heavy-duty highway engines, including boat engines. You cannot bring your speedboat into the country legally without submitting this document to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
• You can find the latest version of EPA Standard Form 3520-21 on the EPA’s website. As of August 2024, an updated version of the form is available.
• One form can be used per engine or for a group of engines in a single shipment. If importing multiple engines, you’ll need to include attachments with all required information for each engine.
• This requirement applies whether you’re importing from Canada or any other country. The form helps ensure that all imported engines comply with U.S. environmental regulations.
• Keep the completed form with your other import documentation when bringing your speedboat into the country.

Original Title Signed

• When shipping a speed boat, one of the most important documents you’ll need is the original boat title with the seller’s signature. This document proves legal ownership and is essential for completing the transfer process.
• The title must be signed by all current owners listed on the document. If there are multiple owners or co-owners, each person must sign in the designated seller areas of the title.
• Make sure there are no erasures, white-out, or alterations on the title. Any changes can make the document invalid and cause delays in the transfer process.
• For brand new boats, you might have a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) instead of a title. This document serves the same purpose and must be properly signed by the dealer.
• Remember to check that all signatures match the names printed on the title exactly. Any discrepancies might require additional documentation to explain the difference.

Notarized Bill of Sale

• When shipping a speed boat, a notarized bill of sale is a crucial document that proves ownership transfer. This document needs to include specific details to be valid in most states, especially in Texas.
• A proper bill of sale must contain the date of sale, the purchase price (excluding trailer), and a complete description of the vessel
• Having the bill of sale notarized adds an extra layer of legitimacy to the transaction. A notary public verifies the identities of all parties involved and witnesses the signing.
• This notarized document helps protect both you and the buyer during the shipping process. It clearly establishes when ownership transferred and the condition of the boat at that time.
• Keep your copy of the notarized bill of sale in a safe place as you may need it for future reference or if any disputes arise during shipping.