What Is A Hull Identification Number (HIN)?
A hull identification number, or HIN, is the unique serial number assigned to a watercraft. HIN plates are a federal requirement used to identify watercraft manufacturers defects and/or any recalls. These plates are frequently referred to as Hull ID plates. Capacity plates might also be required, which show weight, horse power, number of persons per boat size, etc.
- The HIN tag is usually mounted at the lower right transom above the water line – but differs from State to State.
- The U.S.C.G. Capacity Plate lists the number of persons, motor, and gear weights, also the Horse Power of the boat with the Manufacturer name and/or Model number.
- The Serial/Model Plate can be anywhere on the Trailer depending on manufacturer.
- Check with your local DNR or Coast Guard offices for proper placement.
The reason why people need to replace their HIN tags, U.S.C.G. Capacity Plates and Serial/Model Plates are if they have been in an accident, the plates are missing or cannot be read anymore, destroyed during restoration of an old watercraft or Trailer, and if you can’t find a manufacturer still in business to make your replacement plates.
On the right are some of the applications for which we make HIN tags, U.S.C.G. Capacity plates and Serial/Model plates for:
Uses
- Boats
- Watercrafts
- Boat Trailers
- Sailboats
- Jet Skis
- Pontoon Boats
- Hovercraft
Watercraft Types
- Alumacraft
- Bayliner
- Boston Whaler
- Chaparrel
- Caravelle Power Boats
- Glastron
- Lowe
- Lund
- Mastercraft
- Monterey
- Ranger
- Robalo
- Sea-Doo
- Stingray
- Starcraft
- SunseekerWellcraft
Aluma Photo-Plate Co. provides a wide variety of products for watercrafts, including:
- HIN Tags
- USGG Capacity Plates
- Decals/Labels for Lifejacket Holds - Fuel Warnings – Electrical stickers – Operating Instruction labelsSerial / Model plates for Inboard/Outboard Motors like:
- Evinrude
- Honda
- Mercury
- Suzuki
- Yamaha
Why Aluma Photo-Plate Co.
We use a Photo-Anodized Aluminum material that is Military Grade, UV resistant, that can last for up to 20 years in harsh conditions. We have recently added additional capabilities to our offerings. We now provide STAMPING and EMBOSSING which are used when variable infomation is needed. We can provide a fully Photo-Anodized Aluminum plate with all permanently printed copy. We can also use a pre-printed aluminum plate and then either Stamp or Emboss the variable data required. We also Stamp or Emboss on Blank materials such as Stainless Steel or Anodized Aluminum.
Replacement HIN Tag, USCG Capacity Plates & Serial/Model Plate Order Process
Step 1:
Please provide the MAKE / MODEL of Vessel.
Step 2:
Send us a Photo of what you need made (or one similar) for review/pricing.
Step 3:
Send the dimensions ........” x ........”. NOTE: Do not send photos with a measuring tape!
Step 4:
If you don’t have the items for 1-3, view the “Examples” from the photo montage and select one that would work for you and we will change the data to your specific information and make you a new plate.
Step 5:
Let us know if it will be a “Sticker” with a permanent adhesive backing or have thru holesfor mounting with screws or rivets.
Step 6:
Once you have sent the required information, we will send you a quote based on that and send you a time line for delivery.
Step 7:
If it needs a Logo, or other graphic that needs to be printed on the plate, please send the file as a JPEG, TIFF, or PDF. If you do not have it, we can do an online search for it.
What We Need From You to Better Assist With Your Order:
- A photo or sketch of the tag or plate you want made.
- The dimensions: …….” x ……..” of the plate or sticker to be made.
- If it needs mounting holes – or – is a sticker with a permanent adhesive backing.
- If it has a Logo, or other graphics to be printed.
NOTE: Each State has different requirements on HIN plates, U.S.C.G. Capacity plates, or Serial/Model plate replacement and it is the customers’ responsibility to determine their State regulations to determine if it meets the States approval for use.
If you have any questions on the ordering process, please give us a call on our Toll Free number: 1-866-349-4771.