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Boat Hull Identification Numbers

Since 1972, all boats manufactured in or imported to the United States have been permanently marked with a Hull Identification Number or HIN. Like a Vehicle Identification Number given to automobiles, the HIN is used to identify each boat.

HIN's are located at the stern of the boat, usually on the starboard side of the transom, or as close to that area as possible. It's used to register your boat and to track your boat's history.

What is a HIN number

The twelve-character HIN is made up of three letters, which indicate:

  • Manufacturer
  • Five-character serial number
  • Month and year of production
  • Year of production
hull identification number; manufacturer's identification code, hull serial number, date of manufacture, model year

It is important that you never deface, remove, or otherwise alter your boat's HIN.