Picking up a trailer for free...

One of my family friends has decided to "donate" a lot of his belongings after having been in the ministry for 10 years +. Among the list of things that I was interested in was a toolbox and also a trailer. The trailer would be enough for me.

I am picking up the trailer this Monday. I am a novice!! So while you all laugh at me, please help me at the same time. I have a hitch w/ three ball sizes and the proper electrical connector (7-way round pin to 4-flat adapter) ready to go. What I don't have is a little knowledge of what the requirements are in my state.

The trailer is an open trailer, sides and rear fold.
I reside in the state of Maryland.

What do I need to do with the MVA in order to pick this trailer up?
- As far as tags/titles go...
- Any other tips/advice for a first timer like me would be appreciated.

I have read different towing posts on here, but I know that when I do tow - it will be in short distances... not much to worry about.
I have also read the MD MVA website which doesn't specify anything about getting a trailer for free and what the process would be. Everything listed deals with a retail sales price. I am not a charity, just a single man...

 

Get a receipt that you bought it for a dollar. At least you can get it home without being accused that you stole it.

Take the receipt to DMV and get it registered in your name when you can. This is how it works in my state, yours may be different.

 

Yes this is pretty standard for any state. GET A BILL OF SALE, even if it is free, just put $1 on there.

If the owner has the title, it will make things easier.

Certain states don't require trailers to be registered if they are under a certain weight. Some states require a certified weight slip to register a trailer. You can get this by going to a certified scale and getting a printout.

I would check over wheel bearings, tires, etc. before towing it any long distance. If you don't know how old the bearings are, you might as well replace them.

 

Thank you for the info koditten & nzbrock.

I will see to it that a bill of sale is created.

I haven't thought about the fact that its been sitting still for 10 years; so all the bearings would need to be replaced & packed with new grease.

It's nice to have a small project in the backyard after this deal is done.

Thanks again!

 

Insurance!!

On my current policy in my state any trailer I hook to a vehicle I own is covered by the same policy I already have on the tow vehicle. No phone call to ins co required. Dunno if that is true in MD or not, but good to find out.

 

The liability insurance carries over from the tow vehicle. Collision, however, does not. If you are towing a trailer that has a value worth insuring separately, you'll want to insure it as well. Not sure how much this changes from state to state but worth looking into.