No, the VIN was not used in 1948. However it will have a data or build plate. Can be almost anywhere on the truck. Firewall, glove box, door post, frame. Keep looking, you will find it.
Ford truck enthusists has a vin decoder.
The vin # should be on the frame. Or on the inside door jam.
You would have to know who the LENDER is on the loan. You will also need the VIN from the truck and/or the debtors name.
It is easier to find date of mfr by the Vin #. 10th digit is code for year. -Google Vin codes.
run the vin number or use car fax
Vin Plate
If you have access to the VIN, copy it down and enter it in one of the many online VIN decoders. It will tell you much about the truck.
There'll be a panel inside the door frame which has the VIN number on it. The VIN will also be on the truck's registration.
You call an International dealer, give them the VIN, and let them look up the product spec sheet.
You will not find a VIN #. The modern day VIN system did not start until 1980. You may however find a Serial # or similar #. Look in the glove box, trunk, on the door posts, and under the hood on the firewall.
it should be on either the drivers door or on the glove compartment lid