Boat registration

[rudeafrican]

I have finally made the very tough decision to uproot my family, pack some belongings and join my brother and his family that's been living in the US for the past 11 years. I am now in the infant stages of the long drawn out (+- 2years)immigration process.<br /><br />My reasons for leaving my country of birth are multiple but the overriding reason is my concern for the welfare of my children. I want them to grow up in an environment where they know that with hard work they can make do and even prosper. In this country where the minority white person is being legislated against with regards to jobs etc, I cannot see this happening.<br /><br />Now on to a few questions I would like to ask.<br />I am considering bringing along my boat with me as I'll have a fair amount of space in the container seeing that I'll not bring along any of my 220v household appliances.<br /><br />What would I need to do to have my boat registered for use in both inland and ocean waters? I have a 17 ft'r very similar to a Boston whaler in hull design with twin 40hp Evinrudes. This boat is currently registerd in South Africa and is fully seaworthy.<br /><br />Could I have my current home built trailer registered?<br /><br />I thank you kindly for any advise you can give me.<br /><br />John

 

[roscoe]

Re: Boat registration

Welcome Rude John. The registration process for your boat will vary depending on which state you will be residing in. You will most likely have to declare and list your property that you bring into the US. I'm sure you will be getting all these details from the USEmbassy or State Department.<br /><br />This documentation and your current paperwork should be enough to establish ownership of the boat and trailer. Then it should be a simple process of filling out the form and paying the registration fee. Some states will require an inspection of the boat and/or trailer. While some states don't even require that a trailer of your size be titled or registered. <br /><br />I hope your journey is smooth and safe, and your family enjoys the USA.<br /><br />Wow, South Africa to the US, thats quite a trip in a 17' boat.

 

[SpinnerBait_Nut]

Re: Boat registration

Yea roscoe and pulling a container behind it. <br />Man, must be some good 40's he's got there. <br />All joking aside rude john <br />I too, hope your journey to the US is a safe one, and I hope that your children grow and prosper as good as mine has.<br />If you ever make it to Kentucky, look me up.

 

[rudeafrican]

Re: Boat registration

Thanks for the advice and the good wishes. I have a gut feel that this is a good decision and that we'll be happy amongst people of your calibre.

 

[SpinnerBait_Nut]

Re: Boat registration

Well rudeafrican, you will find in this country just like any country, good and bad. Just hope you don't have to experience some of the bad.<br />It will be a whole new experience for you and your family. <br />Again, good luck and let us know where you settle at.

 

[Jack Shellac]

Re: Boat registration

Welcome to the USA, rudeafrican. We complain a lot about government red tape here, but think you'll find it's a lot simpler than most countries.

 

[mellowyellow]

Re: Boat registration

pretty sure the motors will not have any taxes or<br />duties since they were made in the US. not sure<br />about the boat/trailer though. might consider<br />selling boat/trailer and crating up the motors.<br />can always pick up a nice whaler over here.<br />best wishes,<br />M.Y.