Hull Number Decoding

[ScottM]

One other thing to be aware of - most states will assign a 12-character HIN to those boats that are either missing the original HIN or were built before standardized HINs were created. My '72 Seabird has a HIN that was assigned by the MA registration bureau. When I first saw it on the title, I questioned the number because it looked strange, but after talking with MA registry officials, they explained what it was.

[wavelength]

In Florida if the state issues the HIN for whatever reason it will begin with FLZ. One way the bad guys get titles for stolen boats is to say its "homemade". They fill out a statement of builder and say it's 15'9" the state issues an FLZ number HIN and Fl registration. All boats over 16' and "homemade" must be inspected by a law enforcement officer. Then the bad guy puts the numbers on the stolen Sea Ray etc. and unless he gets stopped he's home free. Our they use the boat to go to Cuba pick up people and run back leave it someplace and go get another one.

We're still trying to change the law that ALL "homemade" boat must be inspected.

Here is another group that can be helpful, I'm past president. http://www.fmiu.org/

[Rybones]

I am re-coring my transom and in the process have to replace the old "Florida Department of Natural Resources, Division of Law enforcement" (Now FWC) sticker with HIN that is on it because the original Stamped HIN was partially obscured. Yes, I'm having a permanently affixed plate made for it. However close, my HIN doesnt exactly follow the conventions mentioned in the message string found here and it has me curious what it means.

it is "SECF0373M74C".

I dont understand what the "M" and The "C" in there.

Hull#373?
March
1974

Is anyone able to figure this one out?