What is a Colorado Trailer Bill of Sale?

A Colorado trailer bill of sale provides the information of two (2) or more individuals who engaged in a trade deal. It encourages harmony by listing the final agreement between both parties. If issues arise after the sale, the buyer and seller can refer to this document to understand the terms and conditions.

The transaction can happen through a licensed dealer or by private sale. Dealerships often take care of registration and titling matters for the buyer, although the individual should make sure the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has received the correct forms. Private sales require the buyer to register the trailer and the seller to alert them of the transfer.

How to Register a Trailer (4 Steps)

Boat and utility trailers require a Colorado title and registration. This process closely follows the steps for car registration.

Step 1 – Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin

If the resident transfers the trailer from a non-title state, they must prove their ownership using a manufacturer’s statement of origin (MSO) on secured paper. The DMV only accepts an MSO on not secured paper if it is from:

• A person who builds trailers weighing under 2,000 pounds and does not produce other types of motor vehicles.
• A licensed dealer that manufacturers trailers (but is not a manufacturer working as a dealership or dealer per C.R.S. 12-6-120.5).

Step 2 – Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Inspection

Owners of trailers previously registered out-of-state must have a VIN inspection. This process ensures that the trailer’s number matches the one of the registration or title.

Licensed car dealers, inspection stations, law enforcement officers, and other providers can inspect the trailer. The owner and inspector must complete and sign a Verification of VIN (Form DR 2698).

Step 3 – Paperwork + Fees

Individuals must submit the correct paperwork and payment to the DMV on their appointment day. Since the state requires additional forms for special situations, the owner must ascertain they have possession of the signed, verified originals. Otherwise, the DMV can reject their application, thus causing delays and possible fines.

If the trailer comes from a state that does not register or title small trailers, the owner must also complete a Statement of Trailer Ownership (Form DR 2374).

Homemade trailers require the following: Form DR 2697, Form DR 2704, Form DR 2374, and Form DR 2409.

Step 4 – Renew

Depending on the selected option, Colorado trailer registrations last between one (1) and five (5) years. The DMV sends renewal notices to customers before the date listed on the paperwork.

The registration holder can renew online, by phone, or by mail no more than thirty (30) days before expiration. If they do not re-register on time, the state can charge them fines or make them go through the first-time registration process again.