How to Sell a Boat in Louisiana: An Understandable Step-by-Step Guide

Selling a boat in Louisiana might seem like a daunting task, but in this guide, we’ll break the process down step-by-step so that you can have confidence when it comes time to sell your boat.

Step 1 of How to Sell a Boat in Louisiana: Make a Decision on How You Want to Sell Your Boat

The first step in selling a boat in Louisiana is to decide how you want to sell your boat. Listed below are a few common methods of selling your boat in Louisiana. The method that you use will depend largely on the size and age of your boat, and whether or not you intend to trade in your vessel.

• Boats used in inland waters, motorboats, bass & fishing boats
  • If newer, can be sold on consignment with a dealer.
  • Can be sold privately. The most common way to do this is listing on platforms such as Craigslist or Yachtlify.
    • Yachtlify’s free listing platform guides you throughout the selling process. Manage inquiries, schedule showings, eSign documents, and organize paperwork required by state agencies such as the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Department.
  • Can be traded in to a dealer (if you plan to purchase another boat) or sold outright to a dealer.
    • This may or may not be an option depending on the age and condition of your boat. This can vary by dealers as well.
• Larger boats, yachts, trawlers, and boats on the coast
  • Can be sold privately.
  • Can be sold with the assistance of a yacht broker.

If you have the time and resources to list your boat online and show your boat to prospective buyers, we recommend selling your boat via a private sale. On the other hand, if you have a busy schedule, or if you simply don’t want to take on the responsibility of showing your boat to prospective buyers, selling your boat on consignment, to a dealership, or trading your boat in may be a better option.

Step 2 of How to Sell a Boat in Louisiana: Gather Photos, Documentation, and Service and Maintenance Records

To maximize your chances of selling your boat for the highest dollar amount, we recommend gathering high-quality photos, all existing documentation, and any service and maintenance records you may have regarding the service history of your boat.

Photo Tips

• In general, take photos that give a positive impression of your boat.
• If possible, take photos on a sunny day and/or during sunset. Give prospective buyers the chance to see themselves enjoying your boat.
• Make sure to also take photos that detail any cosmetic imperfections. It’s better to know about them in advance rather than be surprised by them in person.

A Word on Service and Maintenance Records

While not necessary, many prospective buyers love to see a consistent maintenance record detailing all manner of regular maintenance, upgrades, and repairs. This can give the buyer extra confidence that the boat was well cared for during your time of ownership.

Step 3 of How to Sell a Boat in Louisiana: Complete Bill of Sale and Boat Registration/Boat and Motor Title Application within 15 Days of the Date of Sale

Louisiana state law requires vessels of a certain length and motors of a certain horsepower to be documented with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Department within 15 days of the date of sale. For specific details regarding registration requirements, visit the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Department website.

Step 4 of How to Sell a Boat in Louisiana: (Optional, Depending on Whether Your Boat was Documented with the US Coast Guard)

If your boat was not registered with the US Coast Guard during your ownership, you can skip this step. Otherwise, you will need to complete a US Coast Guard Bill of Sale (Form CG-1340) notifying the US Coast Guard that your documented vessel has been sold.