Depending on the state in which you live, you may be able to transport a recently purchased travel trailer from the point of sale to your home without the title transfer having been made official. Certain states, such as California, issue temporary transport permits to bring the trailer back to the new owner's property. In addition, some states will issue temporary license plates until the metal and permanent plates arrive to the new owner's home.
Complete a bill of sale with the seller and have this with you when transporting the trailer to your home. Check the trailer for old license plates and see if the license plates are current. Most states have a date stamp issued yearly indicating it is up to date and registered. Ensure the trailer's plates are up to date.
Call your local DMV or vehicle and licensing agency to ask if they issue travel permits for sales such as this. Bring your bill of sale and insurance card indicating the trailer is insured under your coverage. Fill out the form to get the transport permit.
Read More: What Do You Do With Old License Plates?
Attach the transport permit to the trailer or towing vehicle as directed by your state's laws. Keep the bill of sale and insurance card with you during the transport to the home. Many permits allow transport only from the point of sale to new owner's home. Do not abuse the permit as it may lead to tickets, impoundment or stiff fines.
Call your local Sheriff's department and ask for information on the laws for transport in your jurisdiction. Ask if you may legally transport the trailer with the old license plates post-sale, but prior to the title transfer.
References
Writer Bio
A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.