How to write a bill of sale for a boat
The HIN — not the VIN
Boats built or imported since 1972 have a 12-character Hull Identification Number, usually molded into the starboard side of the transom. It's the boat equivalent of a VIN and it's what your state Fish & Wildlife or DMV agency will match to the title or registration. Copy it from the hull, not from paperwork, and double-check the characters — an incorrect HIN can void the title transfer.
Trailer and motors are separate items
A boat sale often bundles the hull, the trailer, and one or two outboard motors — but each has its own serial number and, often, its own title. List the trailer's VIN and dimensions separately. List each motor's make, model, horsepower, and serial number separately. Solda's boat template has optional trailer and dual-motor sections for exactly this reason.
Titling and registration
Most states title powerboats above a size threshold (often 16 feet or any inboard) and register everything else. The bill of sale plus the signed title (if titled) or the current registration (if not) goes to the state agency — usually Fish & Wildlife, sometimes DMV. Trailers over the state's weight threshold need their own title transfer. Verify with your state's boat-registration agency.
Peak-season tip: get it right the first time
Boat sales cluster in spring and summer, and DMV/F&W offices back up fast. A bill of sale missing the HIN, missing a motor serial number, or missing the trailer info gets rejected and the buyer waits weeks for a re-do. Fill in every serial number when you have the boat in front of you — not after the seller has driven off with the trailer.
As-is clause and sea trial
Boats are notorious for hidden mechanical issues — always include the standard as-is line. If the sale is contingent on a sea trial or survey, note that in a "conditions" line and only sign the final bill of sale after the trial/survey clears. Both parties sign and date; two copies.
General information only — not legal advice. Rules vary by state; verify with your state's DMV or a qualified attorney for your situation.