What a bill of sale for a trailer is and why you need one
A bill of sale is a written record that you sold a trailer to someone else, or that someone sold one to you. It shows the date of the sale, who owned it before, who owns it now, the trailer's description (make, model, year, VIN), and the price paid. Most states do not legally require a bill of sale for a trailer, but having one protects both the buyer and seller by creating proof of the transaction.
Without a bill of sale, disputes can arise: the seller might claim the trailer was never actually sold, the buyer might dispute the condition or price, or a third party might claim ownership. A bill of sale settles these questions in writing. It also helps the buyer prove they own the trailer when they go to register it or get a title, and it protects the seller by showing they no longer have any claim to the trailer once it changes hands.
Some states require a bill of sale as part of the title transfer process, while others use it only as supporting documentation. A few states have an official bill of sale form, but most do not — which means you can use a generic template, a form from the seller, or one you create yourself, as long as it contains the essential information.
Key Takeaways
- A bill of sale documents the sale of a trailer and protects both buyer and seller by creating a written record of the transaction.
- Most states do not require a bill of sale by law, but some require it as part of the title transfer process — check your state's DMV website to be sure.
- The bill of sale must include the trailer's VIN, make, model, year, the sale price, the date of sale, and the names and signatures of both buyer and seller.
- The buyer will need the bill of sale when registering the trailer or explore for a title in their name.
- Both the buyer and seller should keep a signed copy for their records.
What information must go on a bill of sale for a trailer
A bill of sale for a trailer should include the trailer's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), which is usually stamped on the frame or on a metal plate attached to the trailer. If the trailer does not have a VIN, write "No VIN" on the form. Include the make (brand), model, year, and color of the trailer, and note whether it is a utility trailer, enclosed trailer, horse trailer, boat trailer, or another type.
Write the sale price in both numbers and words — for example, "$2,500" and "Two thousand five hundred dollars" — to prevent disputes over the amount. Include the date the sale took place. Both the seller and buyer must print their full legal names and sign the form. Some people also add their addresses and phone numbers, which is helpful if questions come up later.
If the trailer has a title (some states issue titles for trailers, others do not), note the title number on the bill of sale. If the seller is still paying off a loan on the trailer, that should be noted as well, because the buyer needs to know whether the trailer has a lien against it. The bill of sale should state whether the trailer is being sold "as-is" or with any warranty or may provide from the seller.
Where to find a bill of sale form for your state
Some states provide an official bill of sale form on their DMV or Secretary of State website. Search "[your state] DMV bill of sale trailer" or "[your state] Secretary of State bill of sale" to see if one exists. If your state has an official form, use it — it will be accepted without question by the DMV or title office.
If your state does not have an official form, you can use a generic bill of sale template from a legal document website, read one from a trailer dealer or manufacturer, or create your own using a word processor. The form does not have to be fancy or printed on special paper. A handwritten bill of sale is legally valid as long as it contains all the required information and is signed by both parties.
Some states' DMV websites list what information must appear on a bill of sale even if they do not provide a form. Check your state's DMV site before you write or sign anything, because a few states have specific wording or format requirements. If you are buying or selling a trailer through a dealer, the dealer will usually provide the bill of sale form.
How to fill out and sign a bill of sale
Print or write the form clearly so that all information is straightforward to read. Fill in the trailer's VIN first — this is the most important piece of information and the one most likely to be checked by the DMV. Then add the make, model, year, and color. Write the sale price in both numbers and words, and write the date the sale is taking place.
Both the buyer and seller should print their full legal names exactly as they appear on their driver's license or ID. Sign the form in front of each other if possible, or have the seller sign and give the signed copy to the buyer. Some people have the form notarized (signed in front of a notary public), which adds an extra layer of proof, though most states do not require this for a trailer bill of sale.
Make at least two copies of the signed bill of sale — one for the seller and one for the buyer. If the trailer has a title, the buyer will need to bring the bill of sale to the DMV or title office when they register the trailer in their name. The seller should keep their copy for at least three to five years in case questions arise later.
When the buyer needs to present the bill of sale to the DMV
The buyer should bring the signed bill of sale to the DMV or title office when they register the trailer or explore for a title. The timing depends on your state — some states require registration within 10 days of purchase, others within 30 days, and some have no specific important date. Check your state's DMV website for the registration important date in your area.
The buyer will also need to bring proof of ownership (the bill of sale), proof of identity, proof of residence, and payment for registration and title fees. If the trailer has an existing title, the seller must sign the back of the title or provide a separate document transferring ownership. The bill of sale serves as proof that the buyer now owns the trailer and has the right to register it.
If the trailer does not have a title (which is common in some states for older or smaller trailers), the bill of sale may be the only ownership document the buyer needs. Some states will issue a title based on the bill of sale alone, while others will not issue a title for trailers at all. The DMV can tell you what documents are required in your state.
What happens if there is a lien on the trailer
A lien is a legal claim against the trailer because the seller still owes money on a loan. If the trailer has a lien, the seller cannot legally transfer ownership to the buyer until the lien is paid off. The bill of sale should state whether there is a lien and, if so, who holds it and when it will be paid.
The safest way to handle a sale with a lien is for the buyer and seller to meet at the lender's office or bank, where the seller pays off the loan and the lender releases the lien. The lender will then provide a lien release document, which the buyer brings to the DMV along with the bill of sale. If the seller cannot pay off the lien before the sale, the buyer should not sign the bill of sale or hand over money until the lien is released in writing.
Some buyers and sellers agree that the buyer will pay off the lien after taking possession, but this puts the buyer at risk — if the seller does not actually pay the lender, the lender can repossess the trailer from the buyer. It is much safer to require the lien to be released before the sale is final.
Protecting yourself as a buyer or seller
As a buyer, inspect the trailer and take photos before you sign the bill of sale. Write down any damage, rust, or missing parts on the bill of sale itself, or attach a separate document describing the condition. This protects you if the seller later claims you damaged the trailer. Ask the seller whether the trailer has been in any accidents or had major repairs, and note their answer on the bill of sale.
Check the VIN on the trailer against the VIN on the bill of sale to make sure they match. If the seller cannot show you the VIN or it does not match any paperwork, do not buy the trailer — it may be stolen. Ask the seller for proof that they own the trailer (a title, registration, or previous bill of sale) before you hand over money.
As a seller, keep a copy of the signed bill of sale for your records. If the buyer later claims you sold them a damaged or unsafe trailer, the bill of sale showing the date and condition will protect you. Do not sign the bill of sale until you have received full payment. Once you sign, you have legally transferred ownership, and you have no further claim to the trailer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a handwritten bill of sale, or does it have to be printed?
A handwritten bill of sale is legally valid in all states as long as it contains all the required information and is signed by both the buyer and seller. Printed forms are easier to read and look more official, but handwritten is fine. Make sure the handwriting is clear and legible.
Do I need to have the bill of sale notarized?
Most states do not require a bill of sale for a trailer to be notarized. However, having it notarized adds proof that both parties signed it willingly and in front of a witness, which can be helpful if a dispute arises later. A notary public can notarize the form for a small fee, usually $5 to $15.
What if the seller will not sign the bill of sale?
Do not complete the purchase. A seller who refuses to sign a bill of sale is a red flag — they may not actually own the trailer, or they may be trying to hide something. A legitimate seller will always sign a bill of sale. If you have already paid for the trailer, do not take possession until the bill of sale is signed.
Can I sell a trailer without a bill of sale?
Technically, yes — most states do not legally require a bill of sale for a trailer. However, selling without one is risky for both buyer and seller. Without a bill of sale, there is no written proof of who owns the trailer or when the sale took place. The buyer may have trouble registering it, and the seller may face questions later if the buyer claims they never paid or if the trailer is involved in an accident.
What if I lost the bill of sale after I bought the trailer?
Contact the seller and ask for another signed copy. If you cannot reach the seller, you may be able to register the trailer using other proof of ownership, such as a title, registration, or insurance documents. Contact your state's DMV to ask what documents they will accept as proof of ownership if you do not have the original bill of sale.