What Is the HIN?

Find Out Why Boats Are Required to Have This Unique Code

If you are familiar with VIN or Vehicle Identification Number for motor vehicles, then it will not be difficult for you to know what HIN is about.

HIN, which stands for Hull Identification Number, is a unique alphanumeric code assigned to recreational boats and yachts. It serves as an identifier for boats and provides important information about the manufacturer, model, and specifications of a particular boat.

You can find the HIN of a vessel on the right side of its rear or the right side of its hull. You won’t miss it because it is engraved or embossed on the boat, making it a permanent marker to identify the boat.

Why Is the HIN a Must for Boats?

The HIN serves an essential purpose for boat owners, potential buyers, and regulating agencies. Here are some of the reasons why boats are required to have their unique HIN:

1. It gives information about the vessel.

The HIN consists of 12 characters, which are typically a combination of letters and numbers. It represents the boat manufacturer’s identification code, the hull serial number, and the model year and build sequence. The HIN sequence is not universal and may vary depending on the country where the boat was manufactured.

2. It is a requirement in many countries.

The HIN is a requirement not just in the United States but in many other countries, too. For boats manufactured after 1972, they must have the HIN affixed to the hull or transom. This helps with the tracking of boats for safety, registration, and enforcement purposes. It is illegal to alter or tamper with the HIN unless permitted by the authorities.

3. It helps track a boat.

The HIN facilitates boat registration, aids in insurance processes, supports resale transactions, and assists in investigations involving accidents or theft.

4. It is a means of verification.

The HIN can be cross-referenced with the manufacturer’s records, relevant documentation, or title searches for buyers and sellers of used boats.

Here’s How You Can Put Your Unwanted Boat to Good Use

If your old boat is costing you hundreds of dollars a year with its storage, maintenance, insurance, and other related expenses, you may want to consider getting rid of that vessel — especially if you no longer use it.

Don’t worry, you can still put your old boat to good use by donating it to us at Kids Car Donations. We’ll sell your boat through an auction and use the proceeds to support the essential healthcare programs and services of top children’s nonprofit organizations that are in partnership with us.

These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits are dedicated to helping children and adolescents who are suffering from serious illnesses, disabilities, and injuries — particularly those who come from families who are unable to financially support their treatment.

They use the funding they receive from us to provide their young beneficiaries with comprehensive medical assistance, including free treatments and therapies, emotional support, relief of pain and trauma during hospital confinement, and other vital healthcare services. They are also engaged in promoting child health care, advocacy, research, and education.

Aside from helping sick and needy children in your community, your boat donation will also bring you immense rewards. It will entitle you to claim the maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.

We’ll also pick up and tow away your unwanted boat quickly, with no hassle on your part, and at no cost to you. You don’t even have to be around when we come to collect it anywhere in the United States.

More than these material benefits, your gift will allow you to experience the priceless feeling of satisfaction, knowing that you would be helping ailing kids regain their health and have a bright future.

We accept not just marine vessels but almost all types of vehicles whatever their ages or conditions.

If you want to know more about our vehicle donation program, including our quick and convenient donation process, check out our FAQs page. You can also call us through our 24/7 toll-free hotline at 866-634-8395 or write to us here. We’ll respond to you as soon as we can.

Get Involved in a Life-Saving Cause Today!

Those needy youngsters in your community who are suffering from serious afflictions need all the help they can get. We will use your donation to improve their condition and even save their lives. Call Kids Car Donations at 866-634-8395 or fill out our secure online donation form now!