A hull identification number (HIN) or serial number is vital in registering and titling your boat. It is also important to recovery if your boat is stolen or if there is a recall campaign by the manufacturer. HINs can be found on all boats manufactured since model year 1973. They are a letter-number combination usually about 12-17 digits long (ex- ample: ABC12345L402) and are usually found on the right side of the stern or transom of the craft on the outside. They may be stamped into the fiberglass or aluminum, or be on a separate plate. Location may vary slightly on pontoon boats, personal watercraft, kayaks, canoes etc. Boats built before November 1972 should have a shorter serial number somewhere on the craft.