North Dakota trailer — quick answer
In North Dakota, a trailer bill of sale is recommended and notarization of the title transfer is not required. The state form used for titled vehicles is SFN 2872. Titling and registration are handled by the NDDOT.
Is a trailer bill of sale required in North Dakota?
Recommended. Ownership transfers on the title; a bill of sale and damage disclosure support the transaction.
Seller assigns the title; the buyer titles and registers with the NDDOT Motor Vehicle Division.
Does a North Dakota trailer bill of sale need to be notarized?
Not required. No notarization for a standard private transfer.
What to include on a North Dakota trailer bill of sale
- Buyer and seller names and addresses
- Year, make, and trailer type
- VIN or serial number
- Length, number of axles, and empty weight
- Price, date, and signatures
How to transfer a trailer in North Dakota
- 1Complete the bill of sale and title assignment.
Record the buyer, seller, price, and date. Both parties sign and date.
- 2Hand over the signed title.
Seller assigns the title; the buyer titles and registers with the NDDOT Motor Vehicle Division.
- 3Register with the NDDOT.
The buyer titles and registers the trailer, bringing Application for Certificate of Title (SFN 2872). Confirm current fees on the official page.
Official sources
Requirements change and can vary by county. Confirm with the NDDOT before you sign. Not legal advice.
North Dakota Trailer Bill of Sale — FAQ
Is a trailer bill of sale required in North Dakota?
A bill of sale is recommended in North Dakota. Ownership transfers on the title; a bill of sale and damage disclosure support the transaction.
Does a North Dakota trailer bill of sale need to be notarized?
No. No notarization for a standard private transfer.
Do I need to title a trailer?
It depends on the trailer’s weight and your state. Heavier trailers usually require a title and registration; many small utility trailers only need registration. Check your state page.
What if my trailer has no VIN?
Homemade or older trailers may need a state inspection to be assigned a VIN before they can be titled. The bill of sale still documents the sale in the meantime.
Is a bill of sale proof of ownership?
Generally no. For titled property like a car or boat, the title is what proves ownership. A bill of sale proves that a sale happened and records the price, date, and terms — it supports the title transfer but does not replace it. For untitled property (furniture, equipment, electronics), the signed bill of sale is usually the main proof of ownership.