NVDC Online eStorefront Filing System
What you should know about the requirements for USCG vessel documentation online filings.
The U.S. Coast Guard has now implemented an online application and filing system to handle vessel documentation transactions. Known as the eStorefront, it will be administered by the National Vessel Documentation Center (NVDC) and replaces the previous methods of paper based processing. The NVDC will accordingly no longer accept certain applications, filings, and record search requests by email or regular mail. Although intended to simplify these procedures, the eStorefront involves setting up an account and may be somewhat confusing for occasional users who will need to become familiar with its complexities.
About the NVDC eStorefront
The Coast Guard now requires most vessel documentation applications, filings and requests to be made online through the NVDC eStorefront. Paper and email filings are no longer accepted for certain transactions. The system is designed to replace older filing methods but may feel complicated if you are a first-time or occasional user. It involves setting up an account before you can file.
What you can do on the eStorefront
The eStorefront will allow you to implement most
applications, filings and requests directly online. This includes the
payment of fees and scanned submission of ancillary or supporting items.
Application for Documentation: Apply for an Initial documentation or
re-documentation of a previously documented vessel. This includes the replacement,
reinstatement or exchange of a Certificate of Documentation. Paper
applications are no longer accepted by regular mail or email.
Documentation Renewal: Renew a recreational vessel’s Certificate of Documentation (COD) for 1 to 5 years.
The NVDC will no longer be mailing CG-1280 Renewal Applications by mail to
single-vessel owners. It will be replaced with a courtesy notice directing customers to eStorefront.
Abstracts and Copies: Request an Abstract of Title (A/T) and/or Certified Copy of COD (CCOD).
Copies of other filings and recordings must be made by special request.
Certificate of Ownership: A certificate of ownership summary can be
ordered through the eStorefront.
Change of Address: A change of
address for the managing owner can be made through the eStorefront.
Mortgage and Related Instruments: Mortgages and related instruments such
amendments, assignments and subordinations can now be filed online. This
includes a satisfaction or release of mortgages and claims of lien.
Notice of Claim of Lien: Notices of Claim of Lien can now be filed on
the eStorefront.
Bill of Sale and Related Instruments: Bills of
sale, transfers of ownership, deeds of gift and other related
instruments can now be recorded through the eStorefront.
Deletion
Notices: Notices of deletion or removal from documentation can now be
recorded online. This includes a request for printouts or letters in
evidence thereof.
Setting up an Account
In order to utilize the NVDC eStorefront, you will need to set up an account where you create a login with a valid email address. It will also gather your personal and contact information. In order to keep this information secure, a multifactor authentication will be required each time you login unless recognition of your browser is approved.
Accessing the NVDC eStorefront
Access to the eStorefront system can be attained by visiting the NVDC website or you can use a link provided in the References for this article. Logging into the system is straightforward provided your setup is complete and ready to go. Recommended browsers include Chrome, Edge, or Firefox and you will need to allow cookies and pop-ups so the pages can load correctly.
Selecting your filing types
The various filing and service options are listed in the portal menu. These are straight forward and it is simply a matter of clicking on the appropriate icon. You should choose carefully as errors in selection can cause delays. If unsure you can review the eStorefront Users Guide before proceeding. This can be opened and downloaded as an Adobe PDF file from the References for this article or accessed from the system dashboard.
Completing the forms
The respective forms are web-based and data for the appropriate fields can be entered online. All required fields must be fully completed before submission and you will be allowed to review everything before submitting. The system will save all work in progress if there is any need to log out and return later to continue on with the filings.
Supporting Items
Some filings require extra documents such as bills of sale and other items required as evidence of ownership. This includes mortgages, supplements and various other documents in support of the respective filings. These can be scanned an uploaded into the eStorefront system in Adobe PDF format. A follow up by sending the originals is not required.
How to make payment
The NVDC will no longer accept checks, cash, checks, money orders, or process credit cards via an authorization form. Credit card and ACH payment methods are, therefore, accepted on eStorefront system. It will re-direct you to the Pay.gov website for all payments as required for the type of filing. Payment confirmation is automatically linked to your online account.
Submission follow up
Review your submissions carefully before sending. You can track your filing after it is submitted through the eStorfront system and check your account for status updates. The NVDC will post acceptance, rejection or deficiency notices to your account.
Correcting filing deficiencies
If there are any problems with submissions, the NVDC will notify you. This will explain what is missing or deficient and corrections can be resubmitted through the eStorefront. Be sure to act quickly on deficiencies as delays can cause processing setbacks and forfeiture of fees.
Reviewing the user manual
The NVDC provides an online eStorefront user guide which is available from the Referrals for this article or within the filing system. It is quite extensive and somewhat complex so you may need to contact the NVDC directly for assistance.
Contacting the NVDC for help
Help is available directly from the NVDC, but response times may vary. You can call the NVDC during business hours or email their technical support for system issues. Emailed inquiries are usually responded to in a matter of days. Telephone and email contact information is available from the NVDC website.
Conclusion
This article was compiled by a maritime professional and enhanced with AI technology. While we strive for accuracy, the content is subject to change without notice and may contain errors, omissions, or misstatements. Before acting on this material, you should consult the appropriate authority or a qualified legal professional.
References and Referrals
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