What is the difference between a "soft hit" and a "hard hit" on a credit report?

A soft hit is used for reporting and viewing purposes only. When a soft hit is performed, it does not reflect on your credit report as a full inquiry. Creditors are unable to see soft hits on a report.

A hard hit is used for the purpose of granting credit or account services. Hard hits are shown as a full inquiry on a credit report. Excessive hard hits will negatively affect a credit score.