Safety Tips

For Buyers

Before You Meet

• Research the boat's fair market value before contacting the seller. Compare similar listings on our platform and other sources.
• Be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true. If a boat is listed far below market value, ask why.
• Ask the seller for the Hull Identification Number (HIN) and verify it against the title and registration.
• Search the HIN through your state's motor vehicle or wildlife agency to check for liens, theft reports, or title issues.
• Communicate through our platform as much as possible. Avoid sharing personal information until you're confident the listing is legitimate.

Inspecting the Boat

• Always see the boat in person before sending any money. Never buy a boat sight-unseen based on photos alone.
• Meet at the boat's actual storage location — a marina, storage yard, or the seller's dock. If the seller won't show you where the boat is stored, walk away.
• Bring someone with you when inspecting a boat, especially for your first meeting with a seller.
• For boats over $10,000, consider hiring a certified marine surveyor to conduct a professional inspection.
• Request a sea trial. A legitimate seller will let you take the boat on the water before purchasing.
• Check the engine hours, inspect the hull for damage, test all electronics, and verify the trailer is in good condition.

Completing the Purchase

• Make sure the name on the title matches the seller's ID. If someone else is selling on behalf of the owner, get written authorization.
• Complete the title transfer paperwork at the time of sale. Your state may require a bill of sale, title application, and registration transfer.
• Use a traceable payment method such as a cashier's check, bank transfer, or escrow service. Avoid paying large sums in cash.
• Never wire money or send payment via cryptocurrency to someone you haven't met in person.

For Sellers

Protecting Yourself

• Meet potential buyers at the boat's location during daylight hours. Avoid inviting strangers to your home.
• Have someone with you during showings, especially for the first meeting with a buyer.
• Don't share personal financial details (bank account numbers, Social Security number) with potential buyers.
• Be cautious of buyers who offer to pay more than your asking price or who send overpayment and ask for a refund of the difference.
• Never hand over the title or keys until you have confirmed payment in full. Allow time for cashier's checks to clear before releasing the boat.

Creating a Safe Listing

• Use high-quality, accurate photos of your actual boat. Don't use stock photos or images from other listings.
• Be honest about the boat's condition, known issues, and history. Transparency builds trust and avoids disputes.
• Remove or blur any personal information visible in photos (license plates, addresses, documents).
• Price your boat fairly based on market research. Extremely low prices can attract scammers looking for a quick flip.

Scam Red Flags

Watch out for these warning signs that may indicate a scam:

Payment Safety

Reporting Suspicious Activity

If you encounter a suspicious listing or user, please report it immediately. You can flag any listing directly using the "Report" button on the listing page. For urgent concerns, email us at [email protected]. If you believe you have been the victim of fraud, contact your local law enforcement and file a report with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).