Free HIN Decoder for Canadian & US Boats

Enter any 12-character Hull Identification Number and instantly decode the manufacturer, model year, production date and country of origin — completely free.

Example: ABC12345D303 or YAMF1234A404

What is a HIN?

Understanding Your HIN Number

A Hull Identification Number (HIN) is a unique 12-character code assigned to every boat built after 1972 in the United States and after 1975 in Canada. It is the marine equivalent of a VIN number for cars.

You will find the HIN stamped or engraved on the starboard (right) side of the transom — the back panel of the boat. Since 1984 a duplicate HIN is also required in a hidden secondary location.

A HIN decode reveals the manufacturer, model year, and production date. It does not show accident history, theft records, or damage history. For that you need a full boat history report.

1–3

Manufacturer ID

3-letter MIC code assigned to the boat manufacturer. "YAM" = Yamaha, "SEA" = Sea Ray, "BOS" = Boston Whaler.

4–8

Hull Serial Number

5-character serial number assigned by the manufacturer. Unique to this specific hull.

9–12

Date Codes

Month of manufacture (A–L = Jan–Dec), production year digit, and 2-digit model year.

Ready for the Full Vessel History?

A HIN decode is just the start. Get a complete boat history report covering US and Canadian databases.