Trailer Bill of Sale (Free Template & PDF)

A trailer bill of sale covers utility trailers, cargo trailers, boat trailers, and homemade trailers alike. It records the identification number, the price, and the date — the details the buyer needs to title or register the trailer, and the seller needs to prove the trailer is no longer theirs.

Trailer paperwork varies more than any other vehicle type: manufactured trailers have a 17-character VIN, while homemade or older trailers may only have a state-assigned serial number, and some light utility trailers aren't titled at all. The bill of sale matters most exactly where titles are optional.

What a trailer bill of sale needs

VIN or state-assigned serial

Manufactured trailers carry a VIN on the tongue or frame. Homemade trailers get a state-assigned ID when first registered — use whichever number the trailer actually has.

Weight decides the paperwork

Many states only title trailers above a weight threshold. Below it, the bill of sale is often the primary ownership document — one more reason to fill it out carefully.

Describe what kind of trailer

Utility, enclosed cargo, boat, horse, or flatbed — plus dimensions or axle count if useful. A clear description prevents registration questions later.

No odometer disclosure

Trailers aren't self-propelled, so the federal odometer rule doesn't apply. Skip mileage entirely.

How to write a trailer bill of sale

1
Enter the sale date and the state where the sale takes place.
2
Add the seller's and buyer's full legal names and addresses.
3
Describe the trailer — type, make, year, and VIN or serial number.
4
Enter the price and choose as-is or warranty terms.
5
Both parties sign; the buyer registers or titles the trailer if the state requires it.

Trailer bill of sale FAQs

Do I need a title to sell a trailer?

Not always. Many states don't title light utility trailers — the bill of sale plus the old registration is often all the buyer needs. Heavier trailers usually require a title transfer.

What if my trailer has no VIN?

Homemade and some older trailers never had one. The buyer applies for a state-assigned serial number at registration; describe the trailer thoroughly on the bill of sale in the meantime.

Does a trailer bill of sale need to be notarized?

Usually not, but a handful of states require notarization for titled trailers. Check your state's rule before signing.

Can one bill of sale cover a boat and its trailer?

Yes — list each with its own ID number. Since most states title them separately, itemizing both keeps either registration from stalling.

Ready to put your trailer sale in writing?

The builder pre-fills the right ID field (VIN or serial number) for a trailer.

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State-specific rules

Notarization, title-transfer deadlines, and sales tax depend on the state, not the vehicle. Pick your state for the local rules: