Free Washington Trailer Bill of Sale Template

A Washington trailer bill of sale records a private trailer sale. The department publishes its own version as form TD-420-065, which cites both a statute and an administrative rule on its face.

They fall on different people. The seller must notify the department, the county auditor or another agent in writing within five business days of the sale.

That report is what sheds the seller’s liability, and it is properly filed only if it reaches the agency within those five business days carrying the date of sale, both parties’ names and addresses, the identification and plate numbers, and the fees.

The buyer’s clock is longer but separate. Apply for a new registration and title within 15 calendar days of purchase to avoid paying a penalty.

Releasing interest is a four-part job for the seller.

Sign the release

An owner releasing interest signs the release of interest section on the certificate of title, or on a release of interest document approved by the department.

Hand over the ownership document

The title or other evidence of ownership goes to the person gaining interest in the trailer.

Supply the disclosure

An odometer disclosure statement goes to the buyer as well, where one is required for that unit.

Then report the sale

Reporting is the fourth step and the one most often forgotten, yet it is the step that actually protects the seller.

Reporting reaches far beyond a sale

The same duty applies where a trailer is given as a gift, traded privately or to a dealership, donated to charity, turned over to an insurance company or wrecking yard, or simply disposed of.

Where the paperwork goes

The signed title and completed application go to any vehicle licensing office, in person or by post.

What the report must carry

A report of sale needs the date of transfer, the names and addresses of both parties, the identification and plate numbers, and the filing fees, or it has not been properly filed at all.

The form cites its own authority

The state’s bill of sale prints a statutory citation and an administrative code reference on its face, which tells you it is doing more than recording a handshake.

Gifts within a family

The form asks directly whether the buyer is an immediate family member receiving the trailer as a gift, and what the relationship is.

Signing the application

The title application is signed in front of the licensing agent or a notary public rather than at home beforehand.

Both parties have something to do immediately.

1. Complete the bill of sale with the plate or registration number, identification number, year, make, model, date and price.
2. Have the seller sign the release of interest on the title.
3. The seller files the report of sale within five business days.
4. The buyer completes the title application, signed before the licensing agent or a notary.
5. The buyer files within 15 calendar days at any vehicle licensing office.

Fees and tax are set by the state and change from time to time, so confirm current figures before you go.

Give the plate or registration number, the identification number, the model year, make and model, the date of sale and the sale price, plus both parties’ names and addresses and every signature.

Answer the gift question honestly. The state’s own form asks whether the buyer is an immediate family member receiving the trailer as a gift, and if so what the relationship is.

Both parties keep a copy.