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Chapter 1: The Basics of Your Boat

Hull Identification Number

The Hull Identification Number (or HIN) is used to identify your vessel. This number is usually located at the stern of the boat, on the starboard side of the transom. All boats manufactured or imported, since 1972, must have their own HIN. One should never deface, remove, or alter a boat's Hull Identification Number.

Hull Identification Numbers have twelve characters. These characters can tell one a great deal about your vessel. Here is an example HIN:

Hull Identification Number

ABC 12345 A1 08

  • The first three letters signify the manufacturer of the vessel.
  • The following five numbers are the serial number.
  • The following letter and number indicate the date it was manufactured.
  • The final two numbers indicate the year the boat was produced.