Tonnage Division
The Marine Safety Center's Tonnage Division has the overall responsibility for the U.S. tonnage measurement program, under which gross and net tonnages and registered dimensions are assigned to vessels.
The following are specific responsibilities of the Division:
- Promulgate and interpret U.S. tonnage measurement rules through the issuance of regulations (e.g., 46 CFR 69) and interpretative guidance (e.g., MTN 01-99, as amended).
- Please use the drop down arrow on our Tonnage Division Tab to locate additional tonnage measurement program information.
- Provide oversight of organizations that measure vessels on behalf of the U.S. Coast Guard.
- Administer the Simplified Regulatory Measurement system, under which qualifying U.S. flag vessels may be assigned tonnages based on dimensions submitted by the vessel's owner (or his/her representative).
- Coordinate with Federal Agencies, other Departments, State and local governments, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and foreign governments.
- Assign gross/net tonnages and issue tonnage certificates to U.S. Navy warships and U.S. Coast Guard cutters.
- Maintain tonnage files for vessels that have been formally measured by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Please use the drop down arrow on our Tonnage Division Tab to locate additional tonnage measurement program information.