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 pricing verified July 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 | Yes — see which databases have records first | No | Sample report only |
| 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.
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.