HIN 101
26th January 2009 by Boating Laws No CommentsHIN 101
For boat lovers who are planning on making or buying boats for their business or leisure use, here’s an overview about Hull ID Number that you’ll need to make you and your boat both law abiding.
What is Hull ID Number?
Hull ID Number, commonly known as the HIN is a serial number made of 12 characters that is presented to you (and your boat) for identification. No HIN is the same. The Hull ID Number is like a car plate number. It is a law to acquire a HIN for your boat. There are a lot of reasons why a Hull ID Number is important. Probably the primary of all of these reasons is for safety purposes. Since you’re HIN is unique, finding your boat, especially during emergency cases, is easier and can be efficiently done. It is also a way to immediately notify you if there for defect notification from the boat’s manufacturer.
When did the HIN system implemented?
The Hull ID Number system is implemented on November 1, 1972. Your unique 12-character serial number is either engraved on a fiberglass or metal plate that should be permanently displayed and attached to the window area of the boat. On August 1, 1984, the manufacturers and importers of boats imprint a duplicate HIN at an undisclosed part of the boat. This act is done to help the legal authorities identify the boats if someone vandalizes your vessel.
How can you get a HIN if you’re a backyard boat builder?
For starters, a backyard boat builder is someone who builds his own boat for personal use and not for trade. These types of boats still need a HIN and the boat owner can acquire one from their state boating agency.
