buying trailer without title

repair shop is selling a trailer. they say they have no title. they tell me i can Apply with Secretary of state lost or stolen title. could be legit could be stolen with plate that belongs to a different trailer. where else on a Hyundai or any other van trailer can I find vin number to make sure it was not stolen ? is it somewhere on a frame ?

 

I would ask the shop where the VIN is located.

 

Shop can put a mechanics lien on it much easier then you can. With that they can get title a LOT easier

 

Ask the local police to check if it's stolen.
I doubt the current sequence is for the purchaser to claim the title is lost or stolen title. That should be something the owner/seller does.

 

all good info thanx. ..do you know if there is any other place I can look for VIN on the trailer ? maybe frame ?

 

Depending on the state. In Arkansas, shops can no longer file for a title. Only tow companies can.

 

So the manufacturer's plate is not on the front of the trailer? Dealer is the only one that can get a replacement from the manufacturer. If it's missing i wouldn't touch the trailer.

 

manufacturer plate can be easily replaced. I need to verify that VIN on the manufacturer plate matches vin on the frame and in any other place that is permanent to the trailer

 

It may vary from state to state but Arkansas the last registered owner has to sign the lost title paperwork. New title comes in there name then they endorse it to you.

A mechanics lein is a process that must go trough the court. Even if the registered owner doesn’t show. There must be proof of money owed, storage etc. it can be gotten but isn’t fast in either case.


I know a lot of people that were sold vehicles or trailers and promised a title from shop, storage facility or tow company I ain’t sure I know any one that actually got one.




Good rule is no title in hand or at a bankers desk......don’t buy it