The Little Known Difference between Vessel Documentation Reinstatement & Renewal

vessel documentation reinstatement

Did you know that renewing your vessel’s documentation is not the same as having vessel documentation reinstatement? Although most individuals do not, it is essential to be aware of this difference if you are the owner of a vessel registered in the United States. In this article, we will compare and contrast the two available techniques so that you may choose the one most suited to your vessel. You must maintain current paperwork if you are the owner of a yacht registered in the United States. The distinctions between renewing your vessel’s documentation and reinstating it are summarized below. When deciding which method is best for you, be sure to keep these things in mind.

A Renewal Is Simpler and Typically Takes Less Time Than a Vessel Documentation Reinstatement

One of the most crucial distinctions to remember as a boat owner is vessel documentation renewal and vessel documentation reinstatement. Both are needed to register your yacht in the United States. Coast Guard, yet the two methods are very unlike. Renewals often require less work and time than reinstatements, but when do you need to perform each? Suppose your boat’s registration is due for renewal. In that case, it signifies that all registration criteria have been met within the last two years, and the registration records are simply out of the current. 

Whether a private citizen or a business owner, you’ll need to submit documentation and pay a fee. Corporation Center is where you go to renew your state registration for things like recreational boating. Make sure you have retained all of the documents, including financial accounts and evidence of liquor liability insurance, that may be required in addition to those typically requested of recreational boaters.

A Renewal Can Only Be Done If Your Vessel’s Documentation Is Current

Even though filing vessel paperwork is sometimes mistaken for renewal by boat owners, it is a reinstatement. Not that this is terrible news per se, but knowing the difference will make moving forward easier. If your vessel has documentation, but the deadline has passed, you must renew it. You may keep using your boat for up to five more years after renewal. If you want to retain your boat for a long time, you should renew it. 

However, if you change your mind about keeping your boat for that long, you should reinstate it. A reinstatement occurs when a vessel is once again in conformity with the navigation rules outlined in Title 46 of the United States Code and its corresponding regulations. As a result, your boat will be considered “new” in official records. After a successful reinstatement, your boat will be assigned a new Manufacturer’s Serial Number.

You Cannot Use a Foreign Port To Complete A Renewal.

It seems that the procedures for renewing a vessel’s paperwork and reinstating its paperwork are almost identical. The United States is a central figure in both. Coast Guard, although the renewal and vessel documentation reinstatement processes are comparable in cost and complexity, there is one key distinction between the two that you should be aware of. How come this matters so much? Sometimes it’s better to renew your registration instead of getting it reinstated. After six months of overseas travel, this is the most typical one. 

Suppose you’re dealing with an inspector already acquainted with your boat’s papers. In that case, it’s probably best to avoid renewing in a foreign port since doing so will automatically add 12 months to the expiry date. This can only be done once, so if you need to renew your license and decide to do it in a foreign port, you will have to start the process again and find a new inspector who will have to learn everything about your boat from scratch.

vessel documentation reinstatement

A Reinstatement Must Be Done If Your Vessel’s Documentation Has Expired Or Been Canceled

Instead of merely renewing your registration, boats older than 20 must undergo a procedure called reinstatement. This is done so that your ship may keep its official standing. Reinstatement must be done if your vessel’s paperwork has expired or been canceled; knowing the distinctions between these procedures is vital if you’re considering purchasing a new or old boat, so you don’t lose documentation coverage by mistake. If your vessel is less than 20 years old and has never been documented, you must undergo reinstatement. This includes filling out an application and submitting copies of essential papers related to your vessel, such as a bill of sale for recent acquisitions. A charge is also due at this time.

The Vessel Documentation Online LLC. is a leading provider of information and services related to vessel documentation. For example, the company can help you with vessel documentation reinstatement and vessel documentation renewal, among other services. If you’d like more information about these services, contact Vessel Documentation Online LLC. by calling (877) 564-1398.