Rule-based Serial Numbers

In contrast to serial number ranges, rule-based serial numbers are similar to Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINS) in the on-highway industry.  These serial numbers often contain elements that identify the manufacturer, series, model, model year, manufacturing location, configurations, or other details.

Rules and logic that determine the location of the elements within the serial number are set by each manufacturer.  Serial numbers can only decoded and verified with extensive knowledge of the manufacturer’s system.