Use our trailer bill of sale to record the sale of a trailer and protect both buyer and seller.
Updated February 1, 2024
Written by Sara Hostelley | Reviewed by Susan Chai, Esq.
A trailer bill of sale is a legal document outlining the details of a trailer sale, including its price, condition, and associated warranties or guarantees.
A trailer bill of sale records the transaction involving the sale and purchase of a trailer, an unpowered vehicle towed by a powered vehicle. Most states’ Departments of Motor Vehicles (DMVs) require the buyer to present a bill of sale so they can register their trailer.
A trailer bill of sale is essential for both buyers and sellers:
Here are some types of trailers you may record in your bill of sale when you purchase or sell one:
The first step is to clean the trailer, make any necessary repairs or improvements, and remove all personal belongings. Preparing the trailer for sale in this manner can increase its value and make it more appealing to potential buyers.
Take interior and exterior photos to capture the trailer’s condition.
Before selling, you need to determine its market value. You can research similar trailers in your area and compare their prices. Consider using online resources like TrailersUSA.com. You may also want to consult a professional appraiser for an accurate valuation.
Once you have determined the market value, it’s time to advertise it for sale. You can list your trailer on online marketplaces, social media, and local classifieds. Here are some websites to use:
Ensure the ads include high-quality photos, detailed descriptions, and your contact information.
As you receive inquiries about the trailer, it’s important to screen potential buyers to ensure their intentions are genuine and they have the funds to purchase it. You may want to ask for a deposit or proof of funds before scheduling a showing.
When you identify serious buyers, schedule a time for them to view the trailer in person. Allow them to inspect the trailer and answer any questions they have.
You can begin negotiating the sale price and terms if they show real purchase intent.
When filling out the form, be sure to include the following information:
Once you’ve provided the above information, the buyer and seller should sign the document. Have both parties present photo identification to prove their identities.
Ensure the buyer and seller receive a copy of the signed document for their records.
After executing the bill of sale, the buyer must take it to their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to transfer ownership. The buyer should also provide proof of insurance and pay any necessary taxes and fees.
Make sure to provide them with all necessary paperwork, including the bill of sale, title, and registration.
If the buyer doesn’t register with their state’s DMV, they won’t be able to haul the trailer legally on the road.
While the registration process may vary between states, here are some documents you might need to register your trailer:
In addition to the above documents, you should also prepare to pay the associated fees for registering your trailer and any sales tax that comes with the process.
Collect the buyers’ and sellers’ information. Include their name, address, phone number, and email address.
If applicable, you can include the lienholder’s information.
Details you should provide include the following:
You should also include information about the condition of the trailer. Refer to these options:
You can write down any additional information, including the date of the sale, relevant to this documentation section.
In this section, you should explain how the parties conduct the sale. For example, you need to specify whether the sale is a gift. If it’s a gift, you must clarify the relationship between the buyer and seller.
If it’s not a gift, record the purchase price and payment method, and explain why the buyer is purchasing the trailer for less than the fair market value (if applicable).
Furthermore, specify if the buyer will buy the trailer “as is” and if the seller will make no guarantees or provide warranties. If both parties agree, the buyer can assume all responsibility once they complete the sale. The seller can provide exceptions to the “as is” condition at their discretion.
Once the buyer and seller agree to all the terms in the bill of sale, both parties should sign the form. Your state may require a witness or notary signature for validation.
You can usually find these requirements on your state’s DMV website. Call or visit your local DMV office if you have trouble finding the requirements online.
Even if it’s not required, it’s a good idea to have a third party witness your signature and sign the document in case of a future dispute over the sale.
Depending on state requirements, the buyer and seller may need to file the filled form with the DMV or other governmental agencies. If you sell a boat, outboard motor, and trailer, another office, such as a marine board or recreational agency, may handle the transfer. You can learn how to register boats in your state on DMV Boat Registration and Licenses.
Use this simple bill of sale template to document the change in ownership of a trailer (only).
Examples of trailers include horse trailers, utility trailers, enclosed cargo trailers, homemade trailers, toy haulers (for jet skis, dune buggies, and other recreational vehicles), and boat trailers (without the boat).
Use this bill of sale template to record the sale of a motorless boat or a boat with an internal motor and its trailer.
Examples of such boats include fishing boats, houseboats, and sailboats.
Use this bill of sale template to record the sale of a boat that has an outboard motor along with its trailer.
Outboard motors are not permanent parts of the boat and have their own identification number, so you need to list all three items (i.e., boat, motor, and trailer) separately on the bill of sale form.
The VIN is typically on the trailer tongue or frame. You can also find it in the registration and title documents. If you have trouble locating the VIN, contact the manufacturer or a local DMV office for assistance.
Yes, you can sell a trailer with just a bill of sale and use this document as proof of ownership. However, certain states require a certificate of title for a legal transfer of ownership.
You can register a trailer with a bill of sale. You may also need the title and other documents, depending on where you live. Check your state’s requirements to determine what you need.
