How to Locate a VIN on a Trailer

Look near the tongue of the trailer to find the VIN number.

Every vehicle and trailer designed for highway use comes with a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The manufacturer of the trailer assigns this number before it leaves the factory. The purpose of the VIN is to track and locate information about the trailer --- such as accidents, factory specifications, history of ownership, or a history of theft. According to the Virginia DMV and some trailer manufacturers, there is one central place to find the VIN number on a trailer.

Things You'll Need

• Magnifying glass

Instructions

1. Uncouple your trailer from the vehicle so that your can access the tongue of your trailer uninhibited.

2. Check the left and right frame just behind the tongue where it connects to the frame junction. You should find a VIN plate attached with the 17-digit VIN.

3. Use your magnifying glass if you have a hard time reading the number. Record the number with a pen and paper. Make sure you keep the number stored in a safe place, such as the glove box of the main vehicle you use to pull the trailer, in the event you need the number.

References

• Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles: AVP FAQs
• Venture Trailers: FAQs

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish