Hull Numbers

[Todd j]

I’m not doing anything unless it’s a requirement

Yes HIN numbers are most definitely a requirement. One goes on the starboard high corner on the back of the transom. The other is to be put somewhere only known to the builder incase of theft and the remove the transom HIN number you still have a hidden HIN. This alone could save your boat.

Without giving away the builder’s secret location,  can you share with us how you handled the placard?

[Grady300]

I’m not doing anything unless it’s a requirement

Yes HIN numbers are most definitely a requirement. One goes on the starboard high corner on the back of the transom. The other is to be put somewhere only known to the builder incase of theft and the remove the transom HIN number you still have a hidden HIN. This alone could save your boat.

Without giving away the builder’s secret location,  can you share with us how you handled the placard?

I'll get some photos. So this is what I give out to my kit customers. 1"x3" SS plate with anti tampering reverse screws as fasteners which is also a requirement. Have them laser etched with your HIN number works great. 

[Todd j]

Thanks, I guess you can make up your own HIN?   I should do that sooner than later so I can waterproof the screw holes.  Good to know. Thx

[Grady300]

Thanks, I guess you can make up your own HIN?

That's a good question, Not really sure. I have a very specific numbering system I have to use since I'm registered with the Coast Gaurd. I'm not sure when you title the boat if they will issue a HIN or not.

[Brian.Dixon]

No ... you CANNOT make up your own HIN.  When you register the boat (and establish a title), you will be issued a special 'homebuilt boat' type HIN.  The HIN includes a federally-registered 3-letter prefix that identifies the boat's manufacturer, and there's a special prefix for homebuilt boat.  Glacier Boats is assigned "GBK" as the prefix, for example.  Different states have different prefixes for 'homebuilt'.

[Brian.Dixon]

Thanks, I guess you can make up your own HIN?

That's a good question, Not really sure. I have a very specific numbering system I have to use since I'm registered with the Coast Gaurd. I'm not sure when you title the boat if they will issue a HIN or not.

I believe that for homebuilt boats, since they will have the required 3-letter prefix that indicates 'homebuilt', that the state will issue the rest of the number ... so nobody accidentally picks the same numbers.  As a boat manufacturer, you do create your own numbers and it's you and your 3-letter prefix that prevents duplication.

[Grady300]

No ... you CANNOT make up your own HIN.  When you register the boat (and establish a title), you will be issued a special 'homebuilt boat' type HIN.  The HIN includes a federally-registered 3-letter prefix that identifies the boat's manufacturer, and there's a special prefix for homebuilt boat.  Glacier Boats is assigned "GBK" as the prefix, for example.  Different states have different prefixes for 'homebuilt'.

Exactly mine is "WEW" for West Coast Boat Works