The Jones Act restricts coastwise trade to vessels that are US-built, US-flagged, and US-crewed. Foreign-built vessels may be imported and documented under foreign flag for international voyages, but they cannot engage in point-to-point domestic US cargo transport without a Jones Act waiver, which is rarely granted.

Commercial vessel imports typically require a formal customs entry, a US Coast Guard Certificate of Documentation or foreign registry documentation, compliance with EPA emissions standards for engines, and potentially USCG safety equipment certifications. Large vessels may also require advance notice of arrival and port state control inspection.