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Washington Camper Bill of Sale Requirements

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Reviewed against state DMV requirementsLast reviewed: April 20266 min readEditorial policy

Washington private camper sale checklist.

Washington Camper bill of sale requirements checklist

  1. Seller and buyer full legal names and addresses
  2. Sale date and agreed sale price
  3. Camper year, make, model, and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
  4. Signatures of both buyer and seller

If you want to generate a printable Washington camper bill of sale, you can create one here.

Generate Washington camper Bill of Sale

Does Washington require a bill of sale for a camper?

Yes, Washington requires a bill of sale for all private-party camper transfers. The signed document is needed to complete title transfer at the DMV. Both buyer and seller should keep a copy for at least five years after the sale.

What are the fees for a camper title transfer in Washington?

The Washington title transfer fee is $12. The state charges 6.5% sales tax on the sale price. Notarization is not required for most camper bills of sale in Washington.

Washington Camper transfer fees and requirements

In Washington, the title transfer fee is $12 and registration costs $30 plus RTA tax in certain areas. Camper sales are subject to 6.5% state sales tax plus local taxes (up to ~10.4%). Washington does not require notarization for private-party camper transfers. Emission testing is required in Washington — verify the camper passes before completing the sale.

  • Department of Licensing (DOL) handles titles and registration
  • Emissions testing required in parts of King, Pierce, Snohomish, Clark, and Spokane counties
  • Use tax applies to private party purchases
  • Electric vehicle fee of $225 per year

Washington sales tax on camper purchases

Washington has a 6.5% state sales tax rate. 6.5% state plus local taxes (total up to ~10.4%). Private-party camper sales in Washington are subject to sales tax. Use tax applies to private party vehicle purchases. The title transfer fee is $12.

Camper market data and safety information

The most common camper makes in private-party sales are Lance, Palomino, Northern Lite, Adventurer, Host. Average private-party camper prices range from $5,000–$40,000. Campers average 1.8 NHTSA recalls per model across categories including Propane System, Electrical, Water System.

Safety checkpoints for buying a used camper

Before completing a camper bill of sale in Washington, verify these safety items:

  • Verify camper weight matches truck payload capacity — overloading is common and dangerous
  • Check tie-down/turnbuckle mounting points on both camper and truck
  • Inspect roof and all seams for water damage
  • Test all LP appliances, water pump, and 12V/120V systems

Camper insurance and depreciation in Washington

Usually covered as an add-on to truck insurance policy. Standalone camper coverage: $200–$600/year. Truck campers hold value well — 35–45% loss over 5 years. Four-season models command premiums. Peak season for private camper sales is spring for adventure-seekers, fall for hunters, with an average of 40 days on market.

Camper registration and titling

Campers are classified as "Truck camper (not separately titled in most states — considered equipment, not a vehicle)" for registration purposes. Truck campers weigh 1,000–5,000 lbs. Must match truck payload rating, not towing capacity. Federal odometer disclosure does not apply to campers.

Camper title transfer rules

Camper transfers may involve a separate title (for truck campers with their own VIN) or may be documented only through a bill of sale (for slide-in campers that attach to a truck bed and do not have their own title). Some states title campers as recreational vehicles; others do not title them at all if they lack their own drivetrain. A detailed bill of sale with serial number, make, model, and year is essential.

Odometer disclosure for camper sales

Campers are exempt from federal odometer disclosure. Campers do not have odometers or independent drivetrains.

Required disclosures for camper sales in Washington

When selling a camper in Washington, the following disclosures apply:

  • Determine whether the camper has its own title or is transferred by bill of sale only — slide-in truck campers often do not have a separate title.
  • Water damage, roof condition, and seal integrity are the primary condition concerns and should be disclosed.
  • Propane system, electrical system (12V and 120V), and plumbing condition should be documented.

Washington bill of sale statistics

BillOfSaleNow has generated 2,241 bill of sale documents for Washington transactions, with 60 generated this month alone. The most popular vehicle type is car.

FAQ

Does Washington require a bill of sale for a camper?

Washington sellers should keep a signed bill of sale for private camper transfers.

What should be included on a Washington camper bill of sale?

Seller and buyer names, sale date, sale price, vehicle details, VIN or HIN, and signatures for both parties.

Is a bill of sale legally binding in Washington?

A signed bill of sale documents the private transaction and helps prove the transfer date for records.

What are the Washington fees for a camper transfer?

Title transfer fee: $12. Registration: $30 plus RTA tax in certain areas. Sales tax: 6.5% state sales tax plus local taxes (up to ~10.4%). Notarization is not required.

What are the most common camper makes in private sales?

The top camper makes are Lance, Palomino, Northern Lite, Adventurer, Host. Average prices: $5,000–$40,000.

Informational purposes only. This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws vary by state and individual circumstances differ. Consult a licensed attorney for jurisdiction-specific guidance on vehicle transfers, title requirements, or related legal matters.