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How to Search for and Find Owner Information for USCG Registered Vessels

by on Tuesday, December 31, 2013

The United States Coast Guard is charged with tracking information on certain registered commercial and recreational vessels. You may find this data in the document, “Merchant Vessels of the United States (CG 408).” This document includes the name of all U.S. merchant and recreational vessels subject to the laws of the United States: ownership information; vessel dimensions; official number; port of documentation (home port); authorized trade endorsements; hull numbers; manufacturer...

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The Importance of a Hull Identification Number

by on Monday, December 30, 2013

A Hull Identification Number (HIN) is a unique 12-digit number assigned to vessels by the manufacturer. It’s what distinguishes vessels from each other, much like a Social Security Number or a Vehicle Identification Number. All vessels must have an assigned HIN in accordance with Federal Regulation, Title 33 CFR 181, Subpart C. Understanding the Hull Number Format U.S. §181.25 explains that hull numbers are to be 12 characters long with no spaces or hyphens. Manufactures must assign the...

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U.S. Coast Guard Regulations for Personal Flotation Devices

by on Monday, December 30, 2013

Commercial vessels are required to carry U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices (PFDs) for each individual onboard the vessel. Some commercial vehicles may also carry unapproved PFDs as auxiliary equipment, though such equipment is prohibited from certain inspected vessels. U.S. Coast Guard Guidelines for Commercial Vessels Type I PFDs/off-shore life jackets are appropriate for all commercial vehicles. These PFDs must be appropriate for conditions that include: open water; rough...

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Applying for a Vessel Certificate of Documentation

by on Sunday, December 29, 2013

Vessel documentation, a national form of registration, is a requirement for most large vessels. After applying with the National Vessel Documentation Center (NVDC), the United States Coast Guard will issue a vessel certification documentation number to each eligible vessel owner. Determining Whether or Not You Need Vessel Documentation Title 46 CFR Part 67 details the national vessel certification process. It explains that towboats and all vessels weighting five tons or more that are used in...

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