Privacy Policy

BoatDB ("we", "us") operates the website at boatdb.net (the "Service"), which provides search and analytics over publicly available US import trade records (bills of lading) and maritime data. This policy explains what we collect and how we use it.

Information we collect

• Information you give us. When you use our contact form we collect your name, email address, company (if provided) and your message, so we can respond.
• Usage data. Our servers and providers automatically log technical data such as IP address, browser type, pages visited and timestamps, for security, abuse prevention and aggregate statistics.
• Cookies & analytics. With your consent we use analytics cookies (e.g. Google Analytics). See our Cookie Policy.

Public trade data

The shipment records, company names, vessels and ports shown on the Service are compiled from publicly available customs and maritime sources published by government agencies. This information is not collected from you. If you represent a business and would like your records reviewed or removed, see "Data removal requests" below.

How we use information

• To provide, operate and improve the Service;
• To respond to your enquiries;
• To monitor, secure and prevent abuse of the Service (e.g. rate-limiting automated traffic);
• To produce aggregate, non-identifying usage statistics.

Legal bases (EEA/UK)

Where GDPR applies, we process data based on our legitimate interests (operating and securing the Service), your consent (analytics cookies), and to take steps at your request (responding to enquiries).

Sharing & service providers

We do not sell your personal information. We share data only with providers that help us run the Service, under appropriate safeguards:

• Hosting: Vercel Inc.
• CDN & security: Cloudflare, Inc.
• Analytics (with consent): Google LLC.

We may also disclose information where required by law.

International transfers

Our providers may process data in the United States and other countries. Where required, transfers rely on appropriate safeguards such as Standard Contractual Clauses.

Data retention

Contact submissions are kept only as long as needed to handle your enquiry and for our records. Server logs are retained for a limited period for security and diagnostics.

Your rights

Depending on where you live, you may have the right to access, correct, delete or restrict processing of your personal data, to object to processing, and to data portability. To exercise these rights, contact us through our contact page. You may also withdraw analytics consent at any time (see the Cookie Policy).

Data removal requests

Trade records are sourced from public customs data. If you represent a company and wish to request review or removal of specific records, contact us via the contact page with the details, and we will respond in line with applicable law.

Children

The Service is not directed to children under 16 and we do not knowingly collect their data.

Changes

We may update this policy from time to time. Material changes are reflected by the "Last updated" date above.

Contact

Questions about this policy? Reach us through our contact page.