CIN, HIN and WIN: Understanding a vessel's identification number
The CIN number, the HIN number and the WIN number are part of a vessel's identity. An identification number is indeed compulsory for every motor boat, sailing boat and jet-ski built in European territory since 16 June 1998.
The CIN, HIN and WIN numbers serve to make each boat unique, and play a particular role in all the administrative formalities related to boating.
What is a CIN, HIN or WIN number?
Definition of the identification number
The three terms refer to the identification of a motor vessel, a sailing vessel or a jet-ski.
They are 3 acronyms:
- CIN for Craft Identification Number
- HIN for Hull Identification Number
- WIN for Watercraft Identification Number.
The identification number is always a unique identifier: it is specific to the vessel concerned, and can under no circumstances be changed.
A serial number is also assigned to each vessel engine, whether inboard or outboard.
Compulsory marking for all boats built in Europe since 1998
Since 16 June 1998, all motor boats, sailing boats and jet-skis marketed in Europe have carried this CIN, HIN or WIN number. CE marking, which cannot be granted without the application of this numbering, guarantees the traceability and conformity of the vessel concerned.
Where to find the identification number on a boat?
The vessel's number can be found on its builder's plate, generally located in the cockpit, on the transom, on the console or near the helm. On a jet ski, it is located on the sides or at the rear.
It may also be found on a dedicated plate.
A boat's identification number, different from the registration number
The boat's CIN number, whether issued by the boatyard or granted later following a compliance procedure, is different from the vessel's registration number.
Do not confuse them: the identification number or CIN, HIN or WIN number can be read on the builder's plate, whereas the registration number is visible from the outside – often applied to the vessel's hull or superstructure using registration lettering.
CIN, HIN or WIN number: decoding
Understanding the information embedded in a CIN, HIN or WIN number
The vessel's identification is not chosen at random: it contains a wealth of information about the craft. Let's decode the following example together: FRSPB12345A607.
| FR | S P B | 12345 | A | 6 | 07 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Country code (1) | Builder code (2) | Serial number (3) | Month of production (4) | Year of production (5) | Model year (6) |
(1) Country code: ISO 3166 Alpha 2 standard (Example: FR for France).
(2) The builder code is assigned by the administration.
(3) Serial number: unique build identifier.
(4) Month of production: Represented by a letter between A and L
(5) Year of production: last digit of the year.
(6) Model year: 12-month period during which the vessel model is planned to be sold.
Example of a CE vessel builder's plate
Why is a boat's identification number essential?
A number to guarantee the boat's CE conformity
A vessel's CIN number, HIN or WIN is a guarantee of conformity with European regulations. It makes it possible to quickly identify whether a boat complies with the standards in force, and ensures the safety of the crew when sailing.
A number to secure boat transactions
When buying a second-hand boat, too, the vessel's identification can be of great help: for the prospective buyer, checking the number makes it possible to verify the accuracy of the information provided by the seller.
Thanks to the boat's identification number, it is possible to confirm that it matches the documents provided, and to avoid fraud.
How to obtain a CIN number for a boat?
For a new boat: the number is assigned by the builder
Since 16 June 1998, when a vessel is manufactured by a certified European boatyard, the number is automatically given and affixed to the boat.
If the boat is imported or amateur-built: formalities to complete
In the case of a boat imported from a country outside the European Union or built by a private individual, the boat's owner must submit a specific application to the maritime authorities.
The vessel must be assessed to receive CE marking, and then obtain an identification number.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
My CIN is illegible, what should I do?
An erased CIN can lead to complications. You should apply for official re-marking.
Is the CIN number compulsory for jet-skis?
Yes, under the French flag, any motorised craft intended for pleasure boating must carry a compliant identification number.
Can the CIN, HIN or WIN number be changed or transferred?
No. A vessel's identification number is permanent and unique. It can neither be changed nor reused on another vessel.
Going further: CE design categories, or navigation categories
With boat conformity and CE marking, each vessel is also assigned a design category.
This defines the sea conditions in which it is capable of sailing – in accordance with European regulations and safely.
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