What is an Oregon Trailer Bill of Sale?

An Oregon trailer bill of sale serves as a valuable receipt for the buyer after purchasing a tow-behind. The new owner uses it when registering and titling the trailer at their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. Sellers also benefit from the document as it verifies they no longer have liability after the transaction. The form also establishes a timeline for the transaction, which could be beneficial in tracking the historical ownership or determining warranty enforcement (for dealership sales). For these reasons, both parties should safely store the document following the signing.

How to Register a Trailer (2 Steps)

Light trailers, which have a weight of 8,000 pounds or less—excluding trailers for hire, travel trailers, fixed loads, and special use trailers—have requirements for titling and registration. However, any trailers with a loaded weight of 1,800 pounds or less, irrespective of their type, are exempt from these registration and titling requirements.

On the other hand, heavy trailers, characterized by a loaded weight of over 8,000 pounds, do need registration and cannot be classified as travel trailers, fixed loads, or special-use trailers. A vehicle registered by weight must pull it instead. If the towing vehicle has passenger registration, owners can buy a Registration Weight Trip Permit or register the car with truck plates.

After purchasing a trailer, owners have thirty (30) days to obtain the title and registration. Trailer title and registration occur at the local DMV office, where one submits the necessary forms and payment. Remember to carefully consider the type and weight of your trailer to determine the appropriate steps for registration.

Step 1 – Title & Registration

The first step to registering and titling a trailer in Oregon involves completing the Application for Title and Registration (Form 735-226). In addition, the individual must verify their purchase using a manufacturer’s certificate of origin (new trailers) or former title (pre-owned trailers).

After completing and gathering the necessary forms, the owner must provide them to their local DMV office with the appropriate payment. Once approved, they receive the license plates and registration stickers, which they must apply to their trailer. Furthermore, they must safely store the title to prove ownership.

Step 2 – Renewal

In Oregon, trailer registration lasts for two (2) years, after which it needs renewal. The process begins with a notice from the state, usually a few weeks before the expiry date.

Renewal can be done online through the Oregon DMV website, by mail, or in person at a local DMV office. The registrant must complete the necessary forms, including an application and fees. 

Once the state approves the application, they provide a new registration sticker indicating the renewed validity. The owner must display it on the trailer in the appropriate location. Keeping up with registration renewals ensures the trailer remains legal for use on public roads.