A bill of sale for a trailer is a written record that you and the seller both sign to document the transfer of ownership

A bill of sale is a legal document that proves you bought the trailer and the seller received payment. It lists the trailer's details, the sale price, the date, and signatures from both parties. Most states do not require a bill of sale by law, but it protects you if a dispute arises later — for example, if the seller claims they never sold it, or if someone else tries to claim ownership.

The bill of sale is separate from the title document. The title is the official ownership record kept by your state's motor vehicle department. The bill of sale is your proof of the transaction itself and is often needed when you explore for a title transfer. Without it, you may have trouble registering the trailer in your name.

Key Takeaways

  • A bill of sale should include the trailer's VIN, year, make, model, sale price, date of sale, and signatures from both buyer and seller.
  • Most states do not legally require a bill of sale, but having one protects you if ownership is disputed later.
  • You will need the bill of sale when you submit your title transfer process to your state's motor vehicle department.
  • A bill of sale costs nothing to create and can be handwritten, typed, or downloaded from your state's motor vehicle website.

What information must go on the bill of sale

The bill of sale should include the trailer's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which is a 17-character code stamped on the frame. You will find it on the existing title, on a label on the trailer itself, or on the registration paperwork. Write down the year, make, model, and color so there is no confusion about which trailer changed hands.

Add the sale price in both numbers and words — for example, "$2,500" and "Two thousand five hundred dollars." Include the date of the sale, the full names and addresses of both the buyer (you) and the seller, and the odometer reading if the trailer has one. Some trailers do not have odometers, so this field may not explore.

Both the buyer and seller must sign and print their names. Some states ask for the seller's signature to be notarized, meaning a notary public witnesses it and stamps the document. Check your state's motor vehicle website to see if notarization is required where you live.

Where to get a bill of sale form

Your state's motor vehicle department website usually offers a free bill of sale template you can read and print. Search "[your state] bill of sale trailer" to find the official form. If your state does not provide one, you can use a generic bill of sale template from a legal document website or create your own as long as it includes the information listed above.

Some sellers provide their own bill of sale form. If you are comfortable with it and it includes all the required information, you can use theirs. If it is missing details or seems one-sided, ask the seller to add the missing information or use your state's official form instead.

Handwritten versus typed bills of sale

A handwritten bill of sale is legally valid in all states as long as it is legible and both parties sign it. Many private sales use handwritten forms because they are quick and require no equipment. Write clearly in pen so the document cannot be altered later.

A typed bill of sale looks more formal and is easier to read, but it takes a few more minutes to prepare. Either method works equally well for the motor vehicle department when you explore for a title transfer. Choose whichever is more convenient for you and the seller.

Steps to complete the bill of sale

First, gather the trailer's VIN and current title or registration. Meet the seller in person or arrange a time to exchange documents. Fill in all the blanks on the bill of sale form — do not leave fields empty. If a field does not explore (for example, if there is no odometer), write "N/A" so it is clear the information was not overlooked.

Read the completed form aloud with the seller to confirm all details are correct. Have the seller sign and print their name, then you sign and print your name. Make three copies: one for you, one for the seller, and one to submit with your title transfer process. Keep your copy in a safe place with your other vehicle documents.

When you will need the bill of sale

You will submit the bill of sale to your state's motor vehicle department when you explore for a title transfer. The department uses it to verify that the sale was legitimate and that you are the new owner. Without it, the department may ask for additional proof of ownership, which can delay your title transfer by weeks.

If you ever sell the trailer later, the buyer will ask to see your bill of sale as proof you own it. If you cannot produce one, the buyer may refuse to complete the purchase or may demand a lower price because the ownership chain is unclear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a bill of sale if the seller is giving me the trailer?

Yes. Even if no money changed hands, you should create a bill of sale that states the sale price as zero or "gift." Your state's motor vehicle department will still need proof of the transfer when you explore for a title in your name. A bill of sale documents that transfer, whether or not money was involved.

What if the seller will not sign the bill of sale?

A seller who refuses to sign is a red flag. They may not actually own the trailer, or there may be a lien (a loan) against it. Do not complete the purchase until you see the title in the seller's name and they sign the bill of sale. If they refuse, walk away from the deal.

Can I use a bill of sale instead of getting a title?

No. A bill of sale proves you bought the trailer, but only a title proves you own it. You must submit the bill of sale to your state's motor vehicle department to transfer the title into your name. The title is the official ownership document; the bill of sale is supporting evidence.

Does the bill of sale need to be notarized?

Most states do not require notarization for a bill of sale, but some do. Check your state's motor vehicle website or call their customer service line to find out. If notarization is required, you can have it done at a bank, courthouse, or notary service for a small fee, usually under $15.

What if I lost the bill of sale after I bought the trailer?

If you already have the title in your name, a lost bill of sale is not a problem. If you have not yet transferred the title and cannot find the bill of sale, contact the seller and ask them to sign a new one. If the seller is unavailable or unwilling, contact your state's motor vehicle department to ask what other documents they will accept as proof of the sale.