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Marshall Law Litigation

📄 Boat Bill of Sale

Overview

A Boat Bill of Sale is a legal document used to record the sale and transfer of ownership of a boat or watercraft from a seller to a buyer. This fillable version allows both parties to complete the document digitally for accuracy and clear record‑keeping.

Use this form when you need to:

  • Sell or purchase a boat, jet ski, or other watercraft
  • Document the sale price, condition, and hull identification number (HIN)
  • Provide proof of ownership transfer for registration or titling
  • Protect both parties with a written record of the transaction

What This Form Does

This bill of sale allows you to:

  • Identify the buyer, seller, and vessel
  • Record the purchase price and payment method
  • Document the HIN, make, model, and specifications
  • Specify whether the vessel is sold “as‑is” or with warranties
  • Provide a signed record for registration, insurance, and tax purposes

Who Should Use This Form

This form is commonly used by:

  • Private boat sellers
  • Buyers purchasing from private parties
  • Marinas and small dealerships
  • Anyone transferring ownership of a watercraft

When to Use It

Use a Boat Bill of Sale when:

  • Selling or buying a used boat or jet ski
  • Documenting a trade or partial trade
  • Your state requires proof of sale for registration or title transfer
  • You want a written record for tax or insurance purposes

Avoid using this form if:

  • You are selling a motor vehicle (use a Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale)
  • You are selling a trailer (use a Trailer Bill of Sale)

Included in This Fillable Template

Your download includes:

How to Fill Out This Form

1. Identify the Buyer and Seller

Include full legal names, addresses, and contact information.

2. Describe the Vessel

Provide:

  • Year, make, and model
  • Hull Identification Number (HIN)
  • Length and type (sailboat, motorboat, jet ski, etc.)
  • Color and material
  • Registration number (if applicable)

3. List Included Equipment

Examples:

  • Trailer
  • Motor(s)
  • Electronics
  • Safety equipment
  • Accessories

4. Record the Sale Details

Include:

  • Purchase price
  • Date of sale
  • Payment method (cash, check, electronic, etc.)

5. Condition of the Vessel

Specify whether the vessel is sold:

  • As‑is (no warranties)
  • With warranties (describe any included warranties)

6. Sign and Date

Both buyer and seller must sign. Some states require notarization for vessel transfers.

Related Forms

You may also need:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Boat Bill of Sale required for registration?

Most states require it, especially for private‑party sales.

Does this form transfer ownership?

It documents the sale, but the title must still be signed and transferred.

Can I include a trailer on the same form?

Some states allow it, but many require a separate Trailer Bill of Sale.

Legal Requirements

Depending on your state, you may also need:

  • Title transfer form
  • Registration application
  • Trailer Bill of Sale (if included)
  • Notarized signatures
  • Proof of sales tax payment

Always check your local boating and registration requirements.

Notes for Beginners

  • Always verify the HIN before signing
  • Keep copies for both buyer and seller
  • Complete the title transfer immediately
  • Check state requirements for notarization

Subscribe to get access

  • PDF version
  • Editable DOCX version
  • Completed example
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