What is an Indiana Trailer Bill of Sale?

An Indiana trailer bill of sale provides a rundown of a deal between two (2) parties. The exchange happens when the buyer pays the seller or gives them an item of similar value (i.e., a trade deal). In some cases, an owner gifts a trailer to another person. Both parties should still complete a bill of sale to have proof of the transfer. Neither person can wrongfully accuse the other of fraudulence by possessing the document.

How to Register a Trailer (4 Steps)

Utility and boat trailers in Indiana require a title and registration. The process closely resembles motor vehicle documentation but costs much less. Cars also need insurance, whereas trailers do not. However, owners can add the trailer to their vehicle insurance plan for added protection.

Residents must register and title their recently purchased (new or used) trailer within forty-five (45) days. Incoming dwellers must obtain the tags and paperwork within sixty (60) days after moving to the state.

Step 1 – Inspection

The following situations require owners to go to an inspection station: 1) the trailer has a damaged identification number, 2) they do not plan to bring their trailer to the registration and titling appointment, or 3) they built a homemade trailer.

The examiner must complete and sign the “Physical Inspection of a Vehicle or Watercraft” (Form 39530) for the owner to submit to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).

Step 2 – Title

Trailers must have a title before registration. If the trailer has not received a title, they must complete an application and provide a bill of sale or purchase order. However, if the previous owner signed over the title, the buyer only needs to present the completed document. The owner also needs to submit the inspection form (if required) and a form of state-issued identification.

Step 3 – Register

Once the owner has a title, they can register the trailer. The vehicle that pulls the tow behind must have a title, registration, insurance policy, and passed emissions test (if applicable). First-time registrations can happen online, by appointment, or at a kiosk.

Residents that own homemade trailers must also submit the following to the BMV: 1) Application for Special Identification Number (Form 12907), 2) Trailer Ownership Affidavit (Form 43753), 3) Physical Inspection of a Vehicle or Watercraft (Form 39350), 4) A colored picture of the trailer, 5) Receipts from purchased materials, and 6) An additional $10 fee.

Step 4 – Renew

Indiana trailer registrations last for one (1) year. Per the BMV’s expiration chart, the owner’s last name determines the renewal date. Registration renewals that occur after the expiration date require the individual to pay an extra $15 penalty. The BMV allows registrations online, over the phone (1-888-692-6841), through the mail, face-to-face, or by visiting a kiosk.