Coastwise laws refer to laws governing shipment of freight, household goods and passengers by water between points in the United States or its territories. The purpose of these laws is to assure reliable shipping service and the existence of a maritime capability in times of war or national emergency (see section 27 of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, 46 U.S.C. Chapter 551, 19 CFR 4.80 ).
41 C.F.R. §102-117.145