What is another name for the boat's serial number?

The hull identification number (HIN) is a unique identifier assigned to every boat that is manufactured or imported for sale in the United States. This number serves as a means to track the boat’s history, including ownership changes, registration details, and information about manufacturing. The HIN typically consists of 12 characters, which can include letters and numbers, and provides critical information about the boat, such as the manufacturer, the model year, and the serial number itself.

Using the correct terminology, such as "hull identification number," is essential for boat registration and legal matters surrounding the vessel. This specificity helps ensure that boaters can communicate effectively with registration officials and understand the details pertinent to their vessels. Other choices do not accurately describe a boat's serial number and may refer to different concepts related to ownership or identification.