What are HINs on a boat?

HINs, or Hull Identification Numbers, are unique identifiers assigned to boats, similar to a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for cars. This 12-character alphanumeric code is typically found on the transom or stern of the boat and serves to identify the vessel's manufacturer, model, and year of production. HINs are essential for registration, insurance, and tracking the history of the boat, including ownership and repairs.