All three services check a boat's history by hull identification number (HIN). Here's how they compare on price, coverage, and experience — so you can pick the right one before you buy a used boat. Competitor details verified October 2026; check their sites for current rates.
| HullScore | Boat-Alert | BoatHistoryReport | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single report | $29 | $29.99 | $59.99 |
| Multi-report option | 3 for $49 | 10 for $59.99 | 6 for $99.99 |
| Free preview before you pay | Free HIN decode + recall check; database results unlock at $29 | Basic decode shown after HIN entry | Shows how many records exist |
| Money-back guarantee | 30 days, no questions asked | 60 days — terms require “valid reasons” (their wording, Oct 2026) | “Satisfaction guaranteed” (terms apply) |
| Account required | No | No | Yes |
| Fleet-wide safety context | Yes — model recall history and federal accident statistics | No | No |
| Report format | Interactive web report + email copy | Web/PDF |
Any serious boat history service checks stolen-vessel registries, maritime lien records, salvage and total-loss history, federal accident records, and manufacturer recalls. All three services here cover that core. The differences are in what happens before and after the check:
For a single report, HullScore is $29 versus $29.99 at Boat-Alert and $59.99 at BoatHistoryReport (prices as of July 2026). For buyers comparing 2-3 boats, HullScore's 3-report pack is $49. Boat-Alert offers a 10-report bulk pack aimed at dealers and high-volume shoppers.
Every report checks federal and commercial databases for stolen-vessel records, maritime liens, salvage and auction history, USCG accident records, manufacturer recalls, and USCG documentation status. It also includes fleet-wide safety context for the boat's make and model — recall history and federal accident statistics most lookup services don't include.
Yes. HullScore runs a free HIN check first and shows you which databases returned records before you pay anything. Most competing services charge before revealing whether any records exist.
Yes. Every HullScore report comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee — if you're not satisfied for any reason, contact support within 30 days for a full refund, no questions asked.
No. A history report checks databases for title, theft, salvage, accident, and recall records. It complements — but does not replace — a professional marine survey, which physically inspects the boat's condition.
Boat-Alert and BoatHistoryReport are trademarks of their respective owners. Pricing and features referenced were publicly listed as of July 2026 and may change. HullScore is not affiliated with either service.