Michigan Utility Trailer Bill of Sale — Free Template, TR-52-Compatible

Yes, you can sell your utility trailer in Michigan with a free, DMV-accepted bill of sale — created online in 60 seconds, no signup required, no email gate. The state-designated form is TR-52 (Vehicle Bill of Sale) — our template meets all the same requirements. Click below to fill out and download.

Michigan Utility Trailer Quick Facts

Quick answers for Michigan utility trailer sellers

Use this Michigan utility trailer bill of sale for private-party transfers. The document records the transfer of ownership, sale price, signatures, and the information both parties need for title records. Trailer sales have their own titling rules that differ from standard vehicles. Weight thresholds, homemade trailer VIN assignments, and separate-from-tow-vehicle requirements all apply.

Required information

In Michigan, a bill of sale is a strong seller protection record for private utility trailer transactions. Include accurate party details, VIN, sale terms, and signatures before the vehicle changes hands.

• Buyer legal name
• Seller legal name
• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
• Sale price
• Date of sale
• VIN or serial number
• Trailer type (utility, enclosed, flatbed, boat)
• GVWR or empty weight

Utility Trailer-specific legal considerations

Trailer titling requirements vary significantly by state. Some states only title trailers over a certain weight (commonly 2,000–3,000 lbs), while others title all trailers.

• Trailers are titled separately from the tow vehicle. Each trailer must have its own bill of sale and title transfer.
• Not all states require titles for trailers under a certain weight. Check your state's titling threshold.
• Trailers do not have odometer requirements under federal law.
• Homemade trailers may require a VIN assignment from the state before they can be titled.
• Utility trailers used commercially may need additional documentation for DOT compliance.

Michigan fees, taxes, and transfer rules

In Michigan, vehicle sales are subject to 6% use tax on purchase price. The title transfer fee is $15. Michigan does not require notarization for most private-party vehicle transfers.

• Secretary of State handles title and registration
• Title transfer must be completed within 15 days
• Plate transfer allowed between vehicles owned by same person

Does Michigan require a bill of sale?

Michigan sellers should keep a signed bill of sale for private transfers and title records.

Keep a signed bill of sale, complete title transfer promptly, and retain seller records in case of post-sale disputes.

Official DMV guidance: Michigan DMV title transfer information

Official Michigan bill of sale form

The official Michigan bill of sale form is TR-52 (Vehicle Bill of Sale). This is the state-designated form used to document private-party vehicle transfers.

BillOfSaleNow generates a document that meets Michigan requirements and can be used in place of TR-52. Our form includes all fields required by Michigan law and produces a printable PDF you can submit to your local DMV or keep for your records.

State requirements for Michigan

In Michigan, a vehicle bill of sale is required for private-party transfers. The state charges 6% sales tax on vehicle sales, calculated on the sale price. Title transfer must be completed within 15 days at your local DMV.

Additional Michigan requirements:

• Secretary of State handles title and registration
• Title transfer must be completed within 15 days
• Plate transfer allowed between vehicles owned by same person

Utility Trailer transfer and title notes

Utility trailer transfers often require only a bill of sale if the trailer is below the state weight threshold for titling. Heavier utility trailers with a GVWR over 1,500 to 3,000 lbs (varies by state) typically require a title.

Odometer disclosure

Utility trailers are exempt from federal odometer disclosure. No mileage recording is required.

Title and registration

Titling requirements depend on state law and trailer weight. Some states issue titles for all utility trailers; others exempt trailers under a weight cutoff. A bill of sale is critical when no title exists.

Special disclosures for utility trailer sales

• Confirm whether the utility trailer has a manufacturer-assigned VIN — homemade trailers need a state-assigned VIN before titling.
• Axle rating and tire load rating should match the stated GVWR on the data plate.
• Enclosed utility trailers should disclose any water damage or structural rust.

Common mistakes to avoid

Private-party utility trailer sales in Michigan go wrong when paperwork is rushed or incomplete. Avoid these costly errors:

• Incorrect or missing VIN. A VIN is exactly 17 characters with no letters I, O, or Q. Transcribing it wrong is the most common reason Michigan DMV offices reject title paperwork.
• Forgetting the odometer disclosure. Federal law requires an odometer disclosure on the title for vehicles under 20 years old. Leaving it blank — or writing "exempt" when the vehicle qualifies — can void the sale or trigger fines in Michigan.
• Missing or incomplete signatures. Both the buyer and seller must sign the bill of sale. In Michigan, an unsigned document has no legal weight. If there are co-owners, every owner listed on the title must sign.
• Not obtaining a lien release. If there is an outstanding loan on the utility trailer, the seller must obtain a lien release from the lender before the title can transfer. Buyers should verify the title is clear before handing over payment.
• Not notifying the Michigan DMV of the sale. Sellers who skip the DMV sale notification remain liable for parking tickets, tolls, and even accidents involving the utility trailer after it changes hands. File a release-of-liability form with Michigan as soon as the sale closes.
• Accepting personal checks or informal payment. Personal checks can bounce days after the sale. Use a cashier's check, money order, or verified electronic transfer for the full amount. Document the payment method on the bill of sale.

What happens after the sale

After the sale is complete, the seller should notify the Michigan DMV of the transfer to release liability for the utility trailer. The buyer must register the utility trailer and transfer the title within the deadline set by Michigan — failure to do so can result in late fees or penalties. Both parties should keep signed copies of the bill of sale and any supporting documents (odometer disclosure, lien release, etc.) for at least five years. The seller should cancel or transfer their insurance policy on the sold utility trailer, and the buyer must obtain valid insurance before driving or operating the utility trailer.