Hull Identification Number / Hull Serial Number Boat Serial Number
What is a Hull Identification Number?
The HIN is a 12-digit number assigned to a boat. The HIN helps to find lost or stolen boats and boats that are subject to a recall.
Does every boat have a Hull Serial Number?
All pleasure craft made or imported into Canada must have a Hull Serial Number (HIN) affixed to it.
What does the Hull Serial Number number look like?
It's 12 digits long, beginning with the Manufacturer’s Identification Code (MIC). No character of the HIN is to be less than 6 mm (¼”) in height and width.
Where is the Hull Identification Number located on a boat?
It should be on the upper starboard quarter of the outside of the transom.
Where is the Hull Identification Number on a boat?
The HIN shall be located where it is clearly visible when the vessel is in the water, namely, on the upper starboard quarter of the outside surface of the transom or if the vessel has no transom, on the uppermost starboard side at the aft end of the hull.
Where is a hidden secondary HIN number on a boat?
The HIN must also be marked in a second location on the hull, that is either beneath a fitting or an item of hardware or that is on the interior of the vessel and unexposed.
Is Hull Serial Number same as Hull Identification Number?
Yes, the Hull ID is the same as a serial number for a boat.
No person shall alter, deface or remove a hull serial number. If a boat is not marked with a hull serial number, the owner of the boat must make a request for such a number to the builder, manufacturer, rebuilder or importer of the boat. If, despite reasonable efforts that can be proved in writing, the owner of the boat is unable to obtain a hull serial number from the builder, manufacturer, rebuilder or importer of the boat, the boat is not required to be marked with a hull serial number.
