KNOWLEDGE BASE
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about vessel history reports, HIN verification, and secure card payments.
📖 Instant Answers
KNOWLEDGE DIRECTORY
Quick Answers to Common Maritime Queries
Find answers regarding HIN format compliance, PDF turnaround times, lien detection, and card payment processing. If you don’t find what you need, our marine research desk is available 24/7.
What is a Hull Identification Number (HIN)?
A Hull Identification Number (HIN) is a unique 12-character serial number assigned to every watercraft built or imported into the United States since November 1, 1972. It is permanently stamped into the fiberglass or metal on the starboard outboard side of the transom, and appears on title certificates and insurance binders.
How quickly will I receive my vessel report?
Report generation is fully automated. Your 15-page official vessel PDF is dispatched directly to your email address within 2 to 5 minutes after verified card checkout.
What official databases do you query?
We query the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS), U.S. Coast Guard documentation databases, state DNR and DMV registration records across all 50 states, the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), and private marine insurance salvage auction registries.
Can a report reveal outstanding bank liens?
Yes. Our reports check for UCC Article 9 financial filings and recorded preferred ship mortgages that may legally attach to the hull, ensuring you don’t inherit a previous owner’s unpaid loans.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major Credit and Debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) processed securely via encrypted Stripe payment gateway. Zero card details are ever stored on our servers.
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Need help finding a HIN or verifying an international boat? Reach our specialists anytime.
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