Buying a used rig in CA, trying to get it to CO. In a catch 22. Need some advice.

I would take my insurance and bill of sale and ride. Empty of course, no loads unti registered.

 

Could you tow the newly purchased tractor with your current tractor? Personally I do mc8541 said and go at night and or backroads.

 

I used to do driveaway for delivering new trucks from the factory to truck dealerships across the nation. We also moved older trucks that were sold party to party - although licensing and registration was all behind the scenes for me. If you're in a pickle and time is money, as it always is, try calling a few drive away companies. I drove for Unimark, but I have a friend that drives for Bennett. There are others... Cold Iron and something with tigers in the name.... I know Unimark is good and Bennett is big. Might be faster to pay transport company to move it under their authority with their plates - even if you have to park the trailer and come back for it. They might be able to answer some questions on how to get it moved without getting spanked by the authorities. It's an awkward situation but there has to be a way. I kinda like the "run and play dumb" idea LOL

 

What I would do:

Take off the plate.

Make a copy of the bill of sale, fold it hamburger style twice, and tape it vertically in the passenger side of the windsheild.

Keep a copy of your insurance on you.

Remove all lettering/stickers from the truck

Buy a trip permit for each state if you can.

Beg for forgiveness if you can't get a trip permit -- and get caught.

Don't stop at scales (act like it is a private vehicle), but do stop at any port of entries to get/show trip permits.

Drive courteously, at night, & go at/under the speed limit.

 

I went out and picked up a truck that my brother bought in Bakersfield. I just pointed it east and headed home. I went around the scales or made sure they were closed. Same when I brought my truck back from WV to SD. Just drive.

 

I did the same with my truck that I purchased in Vista, CA. A friend and I drove there in my pick up, paid cash-got the title and drove home. No worries.

 

I had a similar problem buying an antique car in another state and getting it titled in my state. The state it was coming from had only a bill of sale, no title. My state required a title. Multiple calls and visits to local DMV without resolution.

I called my state senator's office. "No problem sir, Mr Citizen Voter, let us find the solution for you." They called back 24 hours later. They gave me a DMV supervisor's name and direct number. "She knows who you are, what you need, and is expecting your call. She'll take care of everything." And she did.