If you’re new to the world of boat ownership, you likely have lots of questions, including what is a HIN number. You are in the right place. This article will go over the basics so you understand what the number is and why it’s necessary. This number is unique to your vessel and will appear on documentation paperwork. It’s vital to keep your HIN number handy when you deal with documents regarding your boat. To get started, read below to find out everything you need to know about HIN numbers.
What is a HIN Number?
A HIN, or hull identification number is much like the VIN, or vehicle identification number, which is associated with your car, truck, or SUV. The number is usually 12 to 14 characters and is used to identify your specific watercraft. Boats made before 1973 don’t need a HIN number, but newer vessels are required to have one. A HIN can be issued by the state or the United States Coast Guard. If you build your own boat, you will need to apply for a HIN number, rather than having one already assigned to the vessel.
Where is the HIN Found?
If you look at your boat’s Certificate of Documentation, the hull identification number will appear at the top, beside the boat’s official number. The HIN can also be found on the boat in a specific location. For a boat with a removable hull, the number can be seen on the aft crossbeam and must be recorded within a foot of the starboard hull attachment.
On a transom boat, the HIN is usually engraved on a plate that is adhered to the starboard side of the vessel. This plate is made of either plastic or metal. It must also be no further than two inches from the top of the transom, gunwale, or hull joint, whichever one of these elements is the lowest.
When there is no transom, the hull identification number is found on the starboard outboard portion of the hull. It must be no further than one foot from the stern and no further than two inches from the top of the hull side, deck joint, or gunwale, again whichever part is the lowest on the boat.
Rules for Displaying the HIN
In addition to the watercraft-specific guidelines listed above, there are some other things to keep in mind when displaying your hull identification number. The number must be embossed, carved, burned, stamped, bonded, or molded to its specified location on the boat. It must be done in such a way that it would be immediately obvious if the number were altered or tampered with. It must also be obvious if someone has tried to remove the HIN because it would cause some type of resulting damage to the vessel. The characters of your hull identification number must be at least ¼-inch in height.
US Vessel Documentation Center has all your boat documentation needs. Whether you need to register your HIN or you simply want to get copies of paperwork that displays, we can help. Contact us today and our friendly staff will help you.
