Boat VIN Decoder — Decode a Boat HIN (Hull ID) Number
Looking for a boat VIN decoder? A boat doesn't use a car-style VIN — its equivalent is the 12-character HIN (Hull Identification Number) molded into the hull. This guide explains how to decode a HIN, and our dedicated HIN lookup tool reads the manufacturer, serial and build date for you.
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Boat 'VIN' = HIN (Hull Identification Number)
Since 1972, US boats must carry a 12-character Hull Identification Number — the marine equivalent of a VIN. The first three characters are the Manufacturer Identifier Code (MIC) assigned by the US Coast Guard, the next five are the manufacturer's serial number, and the final four encode the production date and model year. There is no check digit like a car VIN, but the format is fixed and decodable.
The HIN is permanently affixed to the upper starboard (right) side of the transom, with a duplicate hidden elsewhere on the hull, and it appears on the title and registration. A trailer that carries the boat has its own separate road VIN — see our trailer VIN decoder for that.
Decode a boat HIN free
Because a HIN is structured differently from a 17-character VIN, use our dedicated HIN lookup tool to decode the manufacturer (MIC), serial and build/model-year date. After decoding, a documented-vessel or title check helps confirm the boat isn't reported stolen or encumbered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do boats have a VIN?
Not a car-style VIN. A boat's identifier is its 12-character Hull Identification Number (HIN), required on US boats since 1972 and molded into the upper starboard side of the transom.
How do I decode a boat HIN?
The first three characters are the manufacturer code (MIC), the next five are the serial number, and the last four encode the build date and model year. Use our HIN lookup tool to decode it automatically.
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Want the Full Story Behind This VIN?
A decode shows the factory specs. A history report adds accidents, title brands, odometer fraud, theft records and open recalls — sourced from NMVTIS and every state DMV.
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Decode Another VIN
Paste any 17-character VIN to see the full position breakdown — manufacturer, model year, plant and engine.
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