Free Michigan Trailer Bill of Sale Template

A Michigan trailer bill of sale records a private trailer sale. Michigan sets its titling threshold in statute rather than policy, which makes the line unusually easy to check.

Only at 2,500 pounds and up. Section 257.216 of the Michigan Vehicle Code states that a certificate of title is not required for a trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer weighing less than 2,500 pounds.

Registration is separate and applies regardless. Every trailer used on public roads needs a plate, so a lighter trailer still goes through the Secretary of State even though no title is issued.

Where no title exists, your bill of sale is what the office works from, which is why the description on it needs to be complete.

Weight drives the fee category, so establishing it is the first practical task.

You may tow it unplated to a scale

The Vehicle Code permits a vehicle to be driven or moved on a street or highway by the most direct route, solely to obtain a scale weight receipt from a weighmaster or a law enforcement inspection, before titling or registration.

Assembled trailers at 2,500 pounds and over

These need the frame, axle, and wheels accounted for, plus the box or body unit on trailer coaches and camping trailers. Bills of sale for all parts and components go in with the application.

The builder’s certification

A TR-34 certification completed by the owner summarises the assembly or reconstruction, and 6% falls due on materials used to upgrade the trailer unless sales slips show the tax was already paid.

Inspection and a new number

A vehicle number and on-road equipment inspection form must be completed and signed by a Michigan law enforcement officer. After passing final inspection, the trailer is issued a new identification number and can then be registered.

Lighter builds skip all of it

Non-titled trailers do not need to go through the assembled vehicle process at all, which is a meaningful saving on a homemade utility trailer.

Buying from a dealer

Where a dealer sells you a boat trailer weighing less than 2,500 pounds, the code gives them 21 days after delivery to apply for a title if required and to secure the plate and registration in your name.

What the office asks for

Bring a valid Michigan driver’s licence or identification card, the weight or a scale weight receipt, and your proof of ownership. Registration is done in person at a Secretary of State office.

Start from the weight and work outward.

1. Complete the bill of sale with the year, make, identification number, price, and both parties’ details.
2. Establish the empty weight from the certificate of origin, the registration, or a certified scale.
3. Collect the assigned title where the trailer is 2,500 pounds or more.
4. Bring your Michigan licence or identification card to a Secretary of State office.
5. Pay the fees due and collect the plate.

Fees are set by the state and change from time to time, so confirm current amounts with the Secretary of State before you go.

Give the year and make, the identification number, the empty weight, the price, the date, and both parties’ names and addresses.

Do not leave the weight off. It sets the fee category and decides whether a title is needed, and reconstructing it later means another trip to a scale.

Both parties sign, and each takes a copy away.