HIN Hull Identification Number: Registration and Marking for RIB Boats

What Is a HIN?

The Hull Identification Number (HIN) is a unique 14-character code permanently affixed to the transom of every recreational boat sold in the EU and many other jurisdictions. Standardised under ISO 10087, the HIN enables traceability from production through the entire service life of the vessel.

HIN Format Breakdown

A standard HIN follows this structure:

XX-XXXXXXXX-X-XX

The first three characters are the MIC (Manufacturer Identification Code), assigned by the national authority in the country of manufacture. The next five characters are the manufacturer serial number. The ninth character indicates the month of manufacture (A=January through L=December). The tenth character is the last digit of the year of model year. The final two characters represent the model year in full.

For example: AQF-00123-D-26 would indicate Paddle Board Overstock (AQF), serial 00123, built in April (D), model year 2026.

CIN vs HIN

The Craft Identification Number (CIN) is the EU term used in the RCD, while HIN is the more widely recognised international term. Under the RCD, the CIN must follow ISO 10087 format. In practice, CIN and HIN are identical in structure and purpose.

Physical Marking Requirements

The HIN must be:

• Permanently marked into the hull structure — engraved, moulded, or stamped
• Located on the starboard side of the transom, within 50 mm of the top
• In characters no less than 6 mm high
• Clear and legible without removing any fittings or covers
• Protected from modification or removal

For RIB boats, the HIN is typically engraved into the GRP or aluminum transom. A secondary hidden HIN may also be placed in an undisclosed location as an anti-theft measure.

China Shipyard HIN Registration

Chinese RIB manufacturers must register their MIC with the China Classification Society (CCS) or the relevant maritime authority. The MIC registration process includes:

• Submitting company registration documents
• Providing proof of manufacturing capability
• Receiving a unique three-letter code
• Recording the MIC in the national database

Buyers should verify that the HIN on their RIB matches the registered MIC and that the manufacturer holds valid MIC registration.

Why HIN Matters

The HIN is essential for vessel registration, warranty claims, product recalls, and traceability audits. Without a valid HIN, a RIB cannot be CE marked or registered in EU member states.

Ensure your RIB supplier follows proper HIN registration and marking. Visit our CE Compliance page for documentation support.