Boat Manufacturing Standards Boat Buyer's Guide:
Boat Manufacturing Standards

Most recreational boats sold in the U.S. must meet the following minimal federal manufacturing standards, some of which don't apply to canoes, kayaks and inflatables, sailboats without gas engines, or to diesel-powered boats.

  • Hull Identification Number (HIN). Identifies builder, model, and year. Cannot be altered, aids in identifying lost and stolen boats.
  • Most recreational boats sold in the U.S. must meet the following minimal federal manufacturing standards, some of which don't apply to canoes, kayaks and inflatables, sailboats without gas engines, or to diesel-powered boats.
  • Hull Identification Number (HIN). Identifies builder, model, and year. Cannot be altered, aids in identifying lost and stolen boats.
  • Maximum Passenger, Weight and Horsepower Capacities. Applies to boats under 20 ft. Exceeding these capacities will make the boat unsafe to operate.
  • Flotation Standards. Ensure that a swamped/capsized boat under 20 ft. will remain partially afloat.
  • Fuel Systems. For fuel tanks, hoses, pumps and fills, to decrease risk of fire/explosion on gas-powered boats.
  • Electrical Systems. For electrical components, wires and conductors, to decrease risk of shock, fire and explosion on gas-powered boats.
  • Ventilation Systems. Requires powered and natural venting to decrease risk of fire/explosion on gas-powered boats, including outboards with installed fuel tanks.
Call the U.S. Coast Guard at 800-368-5647 or go to www.uscgboating.org for more information. In addition, industry advisory groups like the American Boat & Yacht Council have established more far-reaching voluntary standards incorporated in the NMMA certification program.

 

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