Inflatable Boat Registration: Sticker Placement Guide

Inflatable boats are a fun and convenient way to get out on the water, but they do come with their own set of challenges when it comes to registration and compliance. A common issue faced by many owners is the difficulty in finding a reliable method to display their registration stickers and numbers. The flexible and inflatable nature of these boats means that traditional peel-and-stick registration stickers don't adhere well and often fall off, especially when the boat is deflated and packed away.

There are a variety of methods and products available to address this issue, ranging from DIY solutions to commercially available options. Some owners have suggested using clear vinyl pockets, while others have recommended gluing the stickers directly onto the boat with super glue or liquid nails. There are also products available, such as registration sticker holders, which are glued to the boat and come in different sizes. For the registration numbers, some owners have opted for stencils and paint, while others prefer vinyl numbers or custom flexible plates that can be glued on.

It's important to note that requirements for registration stickers and numbers may vary depending on your location, so it's always a good idea to check with local authorities or boating forums for specific guidelines and recommendations.

Using glue to attach registration stickers

Prepare the Surface:

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials, including the registration stickers, glue specifically designed for use on inflatable boats (such as Polymarine Ltd. Inflatable Boat Adhesive for PVC), acetone or MEK (methyl ethyl ketone) solvent, clean rags, medium-grit sandpaper, masking tape, and disposable gloves to protect your hands.

Start by inflating your boat and determining the placement of the registration stickers, ensuring you follow any legal requirements for their positioning. Outline the area with masking tape and lightly sand the surface within the outlined area. This will create a rough surface for the adhesive to better grip. Be sure to wipe away any residue or grit after sanding.

Clean the Surface:

Using a clean rag, scrub the outlined area on the hull with either acetone or MEK. These solvents will help prepare the surface for adhesion. Repeat this process for the back of the registration sticker as well, ensuring both surfaces are clean and ready for the adhesive. With acetone, work in smaller areas as it evaporates quickly and dampen your rag often.

Apply the Adhesive:

Now, it's time to apply the glue. Brush a thin layer of the PVC adhesive to both the prepared area on the boat and the back of the registration sticker. Let this first layer dry for about 10 minutes, and then apply a second thin coat to each surface. It is recommended to work on one sticker at a time to ensure the adhesive doesn't dry out too quickly.

Attach the Sticker:

Once the adhesive is ready, carefully position the registration sticker within the outlined area, using the masking tape as your guide. The glue will bond almost instantly, so be precise and careful during this step. Once the sticker is in place, firmly rub it, starting from the center and working your way towards the edges to remove any air bubbles that may have formed.

Final Steps:

Remove the masking tape and allow the adhesive to cure for at least 48 hours before taking your boat out on the water. Remember to always follow the instructions on your chosen adhesive and work in a well-ventilated area when using solvents and glues.

While this method requires some time and precision, it will ensure your registration stickers stay securely attached to your inflatable boat.

Using a registration sticker holder

• Purchase a registration sticker holder: You can find these at various marine supply stores or online. They are typically made of durable materials like Hypalon or PVC and come in different sizes, such as 3" x 3" or 3" x 4".
• Prepare the surface: Clean the area on your inflatable boat where you plan to place the registration sticker holder. Make sure the surface is free of any dirt, grease, or residue. You can use a mild soap and water solution or a marine-safe cleaner for this step.
• Attach the registration sticker: Place your registration sticker inside the holder, following any instructions provided by the manufacturer. Ensure the sticker is secure and won't slip out.
• Install the holder: Apply a suitable adhesive to the back of the holder and carefully attach it to the prepared surface on your inflatable boat. Follow the adhesive's instructions for proper application and cure time.
• Verify positioning: Check that your registration sticker and holder are positioned correctly and comply with any legal requirements for placement and visibility.
• Maintenance: Periodically inspect your registration sticker holder to ensure it remains securely attached to your inflatable boat. If necessary, you can remove and replace the sticker with a new one when it needs to be updated.

Using a stencil kit to apply registration numbers

Using a stencil kit is a great way to apply registration numbers to your inflatable boat. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Prepare the Stencil Kit and the Boat Surface:

• Clean the surface of your boat where you will be applying the registration numbers. It's important to ensure the surface is free of any dirt or debris.
• Prepare your stencil kit by peeling off the backing paper from the stencils. This will expose the adhesive side of the stencils.
• Carefully position the stencils on the boat, making sure they are straight and aligned correctly.

Paint the Registration Numbers:

• Once the stencils are in place, you can start painting. Use a flexible vinyl spray paint that is specifically designed for use on inflatable boats.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the paint application. You may need to apply multiple thin coats to achieve the desired opacity.
• Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the stencils.

Apply the Registration Sticker:

• After painting the registration numbers, you will need to apply the annual registration sticker.
• Clean the area where you will place the sticker with a solvent such as acetone or MEK (methyl ethyl ketone). This will ensure that the adhesive bonds properly.
• Apply a thin layer of PVC adhesive to both the boat and the back of the sticker.
• Wait for the adhesive to dry for about 10 minutes, and then apply a second thin coat.
• Carefully position the sticker on the boat, following any legal requirements for its placement.
• Firmly rub the sticker, starting from the center and working towards the edges, to remove any air bubbles.
• Allow the adhesive to cure for at least 48 hours before taking your boat out on the water.

Tips and Tricks:

• It's a good idea to wear disposable nitrile gloves when working with solvents and adhesives to protect your hands.
• Work in a well-ventilated area when using solvents and paints.
• If you make a mistake while painting, use a permanent marker to touch up the registration numbers.
• Make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies before starting the project, including masking tape, sandpaper, clean rags, and stiff-bristle brushes.

Using a custom registration plate

• Prepare the area: Inflate the hull and decide on the placement of the plates, keeping in mind any legal requirements for number positioning. Use masking tape to outline the area where the plate will go, then lightly sand the surface with medium-grit sandpaper. This will create a rough surface for better adhesion. Finally, wipe away any residue or grit.
• Clean the hull and plate: Use a solvent like acetone or MEK (methyl ethyl ketone) and a clean rag to scrub both the hull and the back of the plate. This step is important to ensure that the adhesive will bond properly. Wait 10 minutes, then repeat the process. Acetone evaporates quickly, so you'll need to work in small areas and dampen the rag frequently.
• Apply the adhesive: Brush a thin layer of PVC adhesive to both the boat area and the back of the plate. Let it dry for about 10 minutes, then apply a second thin coat to each surface. It's best to work on one plate at a time for better results.
• Install the plate: Carefully lay the plate into position, using the masking tape outline as your guide. The adhesive dries almost instantly, so be precise. Once the plate is down, firmly rub it, starting at the centre and working towards the edges, to remove any air bubbles. Remove the masking tape and let the adhesive cure for 48 hours.

You can purchase custom registration plates from websites like BoatNumberPlate.com, which offers flexible plates that work on both Hypalon and PVC boats. These plates include a special surface to secure the annual sticker. When ordering, you can specify your registration number and choose between black or white lettering. The plates are approximately 3.5" x 21" in size, but the exact dimensions may vary based on your state or country's requirements.

Alternatively, you can create your own custom plates using a product like the SeaSense Inflatable Boat Registration Kit, which includes two 4" x 24" registration plates, suction cups, and adhesive. However, keep in mind that some customers have reported issues with the suction cups not adhering properly to textured boat surfaces.

Using a plastic board to attach registration stickers

• Prepare the Materials: Gather the necessary materials, including a plastic board, your registration stickers, glue or adhesive suitable for use on an inflatable boat, a sharpie or permanent marker, and any other tools you may need, such as sandpaper, rags, and gloves.
• Cut the Plastic Board: Cut the plastic board to the desired size, ensuring it is large enough to fit the registration stickers. You may also want to round the corners of the board to avoid sharp edges.
• Clean and Prepare the Surface: Clean the surface of your inflatable boat where you plan to attach the plastic board. This area should be smooth and free of any dirt or debris. You can use a mild soap or detergent and water to clean the area. Ensure it is completely dry before proceeding.
• Attach the Registration Stickers: Using a sharpie or permanent marker, carefully write or trace your registration information onto the stickers. Allow the ink to dry completely, and then attach the stickers to the plastic board. You can use glue or a strong adhesive suitable for inflatable boats. Make sure the stickers are securely attached and won't peel off easily.
• Attach the Plastic Board to Your Boat: Identify the location on your inflatable boat where you want to place the plastic board with the registration stickers. Clean this area thoroughly. Apply a suitable adhesive or glue to the back of the plastic board and carefully attach it to the boat. Follow the instructions on the adhesive packaging for proper application and cure time.
• Final Checks: Once the adhesive has cured, carefully inspect the plastic board to ensure it is securely attached to your inflatable boat. Check that the registration stickers are clearly visible and readable from a distance.
• Maintenance: Periodically check the plastic board and registration stickers to ensure they remain securely attached. If necessary, you can reapply adhesive or glue to prevent peeling or detachment.

Remember to follow any specific regulations or guidelines in your region regarding the placement and display of registration stickers on inflatable boats.

Frequently asked questions