Herstellerschlüsselnummer

Herstellerschlüsselnummer, often abbreviated as HSN, is a German term that translates to manufacturer key number. It is a critical component of vehicle registration in Germany and other European countries. The HSN is a two- to four-digit numerical code that uniquely identifies the manufacturer of a vehicle. Alongside the Typstellernummer (TSN), which identifies the specific model and engine type, the HSN forms the basis for categorizing vehicles within official registration documents.

This numbering system is essential for administrative purposes, including vehicle tax assessment, insurance calculations, and the identification of spare parts. When a vehicle is registered, its HSN and TSN are recorded in the vehicle registration document (Fahrzeugschein). This allows authorities and insurance companies to quickly and accurately determine the vehicle's origin and specifications.

The HSN is assigned by the Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (KBA), the German Federal Motor Transport Authority. The KBA maintains a comprehensive database of all registered vehicle manufacturers and their corresponding HSNs. This standardized system ensures consistency and facilitates data exchange across different administrative bodies and industries. The HSN is a fundamental piece of information for anyone involved in the automotive sector in Germany.