The Datatag system is a unique and sophisticated identification scheme that uses both visible registration numbers and identification technologies including electronic transponders or ‘tags’ or Datatag® Microdots, which can be read by a special scanner.

Datatag have provided free of charge approximately 3000 scanners to the Police and Harbour Authorities, using these scanners, craft can be quickly and positively identified. In addition to this, each Datatag system provides craft with a unique 6 character registration number e.g. AB-1234 and this registration number is linked to the craft, registered keepers details, towing vehicle and trailer etc.

Datatag is a wholly owned subsidiary of Mitsui & Co, it was launched in 1992 as a direct response to combat the increasing problem of motorcycle theft. Datatag now protects many other markets including personal watercraft and all manufacturers for the UK market fit the system as standard on officially imported new craft.

Datatag has a 100% successful prosecution rate and many insurers insist on equipment being protected and offer premium discounts. As a result many owners of imported and older craft are protecting and registering their craft.

The ability to identify craft has many advantages and serves to help authorities with enforcement and security. The secure datatag database contains the following information:

• owner’s name
• owner’s address & post code
• owner’s telephone number
• registration number (the AB-1234 registration mark displayed as part of the Datatag system)
• transponder (tag) numbers
• Datatag Microdot number/s
• hull identification number
• engine number
• towing vehicle type
• trailer serial number
• previous keeper’s details.

Datatag can be contacted 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling +44 (0) 1932 358100 or visiting http://www.datatag.com/

Registration with Datatag

To register a craft with Datatag, the registration form included within each system must be completed in full and returned to Datatag, many dealers now insist the customer completes the form at the time of sale.

Documentation for new machines also include a registration transfer application, to be handed to a subsequent owner. Authorities should ensure that owners have updated these details as failure to do so can invalidate insurance arrangements. Authorities can provide an incentive for re-registration by restricting access to registered users only.