History of HIN's
What is a HIN?
HIN stands for Hull Identification Number. It is regulated by the Federal Government and follows a standard format determined by the US Coast Guard. This was all laid out in the Federal Boat Safety Act of 1972.
Is the HIN the same thing as a VIN?
Basically- Yes. The HIN provides information on each watercraft that ensures it was built properly. This VIN (or Vehicle Identification Number) does the same for automotives by tracking recalls, registrations, warranty claims, thefts and insurance coverage.
Why do I need a HIN?
HIN's are mandatory for every boat sold in the US, including boats that are imported. This way states can register boats. It is also a way to verify a boat was not stolen.
Why is the HIN so important?
The HIN can be used to recall boats if necessary. Obviously, when dealing with a watercraft, a faulty issue can be deadly when away from shore. By maintaining proper HIN's and recording ownership details with the Coast Guard, it makes it very easy to reach the correct owner in the case of a manufacturer recall.
Where does the HIN go?
The Hin should be located in 2 spots on the boat. The first and most important is the location that gets placed on the outside of the boat. It needs to be engraved or written on a metal panel or on something that is outlined and stands alone so as easily decipherable as the boats HIN. Placement is also very particular. It needs to be located on the outboard starboard side of the transom. If the watercraft does not have a transom, the HIN must be placed on the outboard starboard side of the vessel, within one foot of the stern. In any case, it must be no lower than 2 inches from the top of the gunwale. Additionally, it MUST be permanently affixed. For an example of placement, see picture below:
HIN stands for Hull Identification Number. It is regulated by the Federal Government and follows a standard format determined by the US Coast Guard. This was all laid out in the Federal Boat Safety Act of 1972.
Is the HIN the same thing as a VIN?
Basically- Yes. The HIN provides information on each watercraft that ensures it was built properly. This VIN (or Vehicle Identification Number) does the same for automotives by tracking recalls, registrations, warranty claims, thefts and insurance coverage.
Why do I need a HIN?
HIN's are mandatory for every boat sold in the US, including boats that are imported. This way states can register boats. It is also a way to verify a boat was not stolen.
Why is the HIN so important?
The HIN can be used to recall boats if necessary. Obviously, when dealing with a watercraft, a faulty issue can be deadly when away from shore. By maintaining proper HIN's and recording ownership details with the Coast Guard, it makes it very easy to reach the correct owner in the case of a manufacturer recall.
Where does the HIN go?
The Hin should be located in 2 spots on the boat. The first and most important is the location that gets placed on the outside of the boat. It needs to be engraved or written on a metal panel or on something that is outlined and stands alone so as easily decipherable as the boats HIN. Placement is also very particular. It needs to be located on the outboard starboard side of the transom. If the watercraft does not have a transom, the HIN must be placed on the outboard starboard side of the vessel, within one foot of the stern. In any case, it must be no lower than 2 inches from the top of the gunwale. Additionally, it MUST be permanently affixed. For an example of placement, see picture below:
