HullTrace
Free Lookup
VESSEL FOUNDMatch confidence: 100%
HIN · ARJ02878A696

1996 Arctic

ACTIVEREGISTERED · TXHULL VERIFIED
BuilderArctic
Model year1996
Registration stateTX
Statusactive
CURRENT STATUS
Active · TX
Registration status: active
§ 02

Hull identification

DECODED FROM HIN · ARJ02878A696
HIN STRUCTURE
ARJ
MIC
02878
SERIAL
A6
PROD
96
MY
Manufacturer Code
Identifies the hull builder (chars 1–3)
ARJ
Serial Number
Manufacturer-assigned hull serial (chars 4–8)
02878
Production Month
Encoded in char 9
January
Production Year (digit)
Last digit of build year encoded in char 10
6
Model Year
Regulatory year from chars 11–12
1996
MANUFACTURER · MIC ARJ
ARMORJET
CENTRALIA, WA
SOURCE

MIC ARJ registered with the USCG National Vessel Documentation Center.

§ 03

Buying a used Arctic

WHAT TO VERIFY BEFORE YOU COMMIT

This record is for a 1996 Arctic. It was registered in Texas.

The free registration data above confirms what is on file with the state or USCG. The full history report unlocks the title chain, lien records, accident history, and open recall status for this specific HIN — the records that a visual inspection cannot surface.

WHAT TO CHECK BEFORE BUYING
  • +Physically verify the HIN on the transom matches the title and registration exactly before signing anything.
  • +Check that the secondary (hidden) HIN, usually found under a hatch or seat cushion, matches the primary.
  • +A clean title does not guarantee a clean history — boats can be salvaged and resold with clean titles in many states.
  • +Run the HIN before any deposit to check for outstanding liens, especially on documented vessels.
§ 04

Records on file

COUNTS ARE FREE · DETAILS REQUIRE A REPORT
0
Title records
none on file
0
Active liens
none found
0
Incidents
none reported
§ 05

Title chain

PREVIEW · UNLOCK WITH REPORT
#DATEPARTIESSTATETYPE
01→
READY TO SEE THE FULL FILE?

Unlock the full history for this vessel— for $15.

One-time payment, no subscription. Includes shareable permalink and PDF download.

§ 06

Common questions

ARCTIC · TEXAS
ABOUT ARCTIC
Are Arctic boats reliable?
Arctic boats are known for solid construction and dependable performance in harsh marine conditions. They are built with materials designed to withstand cold water environments, and many owners report long service lives when properly maintained. Regular engine servicing and winterization are key to ensuring reliability over time.
What should I look for when buying a used Arctic boat?
Inspect the hull carefully for cracks, stress marks, or damage from impacts, as Arctic boats operate in challenging conditions. Check that all systems including the engine, electrical, and plumbing are functioning properly, and verify the maintenance history through service records. Running a comprehensive history check and speaking with the previous owner about usage patterns will help you understand how the boat was operated and maintained.
What are common issues with Arctic boats?
Corrosion can be a concern in saltwater or heavily used freshwater environments, particularly affecting metal components and fittings. Some owners report that gel coat degradation occurs over time when exposed to intense UV rays and extreme weather. Ensuring proper winterization and regular maintenance protocols specific to cold climates will help mitigate these issues.
BOAT OWNERSHIP IN TEXAS
What documents do I need to register a boat in Texas?
To register a boat in Texas, you'll need to submit an Application for Texas Title and/or Registration (Form 130-U), proof of ownership, a bill of sale, and proof of liability insurance. You must also provide valid identification and pay the appropriate registration and title fees based on your vessel's length and type.
How long does a Texas boat title and registration last?
Texas boat registrations are valid for one or two years, depending on the length of your vessel and the registration period you choose. Your title does not expire, but you must renew your registration annually or biennially before it lapses to avoid penalties and ensure legal operation.
What happens when I buy a used boat in Texas—do I need to transfer the title?
Yes, you must transfer the title to your name within 30 days of purchase by submitting the signed title certificate, a bill of sale, and the application form to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Before completing the purchase, it's advisable to verify the current title and any lien records through the TPWD to ensure the seller has clear ownership and no outstanding claims against the vessel.

DATA SOURCED FROM USCG NATIONAL VESSEL DOCUMENTATION CENTER AND STATE REGISTRATION DATABASES