UCC Document Community

Update us when you get this resolved! I'm dealing with a similar UCC 1-205 issue and would love to know what approach finally worked for you.

I've been through this exact UCC 1-205 headache before! The key issue is that filing offices are getting stricter about collateral descriptions that blur the lines between different categories. For equipment with both mobile and fixed components, I'd recommend completely separating your description. List the mobile machinery under "equipment" with specific model numbers and serial numbers, then separately describe any bolted-down components as "fixtures" if they meet the attachment test under UCC 1-205. Also, double-check if your state requires a fixture filing for the attached portions - some states are really picky about this. The extra specificity might seem overkill but it eliminates the ambiguity that's causing your rejections.

Bottom line for your multi-state strategy: File UCC-1s in every state where you have collateral, use exact entity names from state records, and allow extra time for processing in slower states. The UCC framework is there everywhere you need it, but the devil is in the details of each state's specific requirements and procedures.

As someone who's handled dozens of multi-state UCC filings, I can confirm what others have said - all 50 states have adopted UCC Article 9 for secured transactions. The key issue isn't adoption but rather state-specific variations. I always recommend creating a filing checklist for each state that includes: 1) Exact debtor name requirements from their Secretary of State database, 2) Required attachments (some states need additional schedules), 3) Filing fees and accepted payment methods, 4) Processing timeframes. Also, consider filing a few days early in states known for slower processing - Delaware and California can sometimes take longer during busy periods. One last tip: keep digital copies of all your corporate formation documents easily accessible since you'll need to reference them constantly to ensure name consistency across all filings.

The uniformity of UCC adoption is actually one of its success stories. Before the UCC, every state had different secured transaction laws and it was a nightmare for interstate commerce. Now at least you know the basic framework is the same everywhere, even if the details vary.

Great thread! Just wanted to add that while all states have adopted UCC Article 9, I've found it helpful to maintain a checklist of state-specific quirks for multi-state deals. Things like whether the state requires middle initials in debtor names, how they handle LLC suffixes (LLC vs L.L.C.), and filing fee structures. Also, don't forget about the choice of law provisions in your security agreements - you can often pick the most favorable state's law to govern even if you're filing in multiple jurisdictions. Makes the whole process much smoother when you're prepared for the variations upfront.

This is a really common source of confusion! For your construction equipment (excavator and dump truck), you're definitely dealing with title liens rather than UCC-1 filings. Since these are motor vehicles, the security interest gets perfected by recording a lien directly on the certificate of title through your state's DMV system, not through UCC filings with the Secretary of State. The lender should coordinate this process with the equipment dealer at closing, but I'd recommend asking them specifically about the timeline and which party handles the DMV paperwork. Make sure they're already registered as an approved lienholder with your state's DMV to avoid any delays. This is actually simpler than UCC filings in many ways - no debtor name matching issues and no need for continuation filings every five years.

I went through this exact same situation with my landscaping business last year! The term "non-UCC filing" is definitely confusing - it basically means any security interest that gets perfected through a system other than UCC-1 filings. For your excavator and dump truck, you're looking at certificate of title liens since they're motor vehicles. The good news is this is actually more straightforward than UCC filings once you understand it. The lender will have their lien recorded directly on the vehicle titles through your state's DMV system. Just make sure to ask your lender for a clear timeline of when this needs to happen relative to when you take possession of the equipment. Most dealers are used to coordinating this process, but it helps to have everyone on the same page about timing so your deal doesn't get held up.

Just want to echo what others said about double-checking everything before filing. Between rejection fees and amendment costs, mistakes get expensive fast. I use a checklist now to verify debtor names match exactly, addresses are current, and collateral descriptions are complete.

One more thing to consider - if you're doing equipment financing deals, make sure you understand the difference between purchase money security interests and regular security interests for UCC filing purposes. PMSI filings have different priority rules and timing requirements, especially if there's existing financing on the same collateral. It won't affect the NY filing fee but it could impact your collateral description and filing strategy. Also, for equipment that might move between states, consider whether you need to file in multiple jurisdictions from the start.