Illinois Trailer Bill of Sale Overview
In Illinois, a trailer bill of sale is an essential document for any private party trailer transaction. The Illinois Secretary of State requires a bill of sale to process trailer ownership transfers. Illinois requires titles for trailers with a GVWR over 3,000 lbs. Lighter trailers may be exempt from titling but still require registration. Whether you are selling a utility trailer, enclosed cargo trailer, travel trailer, or any other type, a properly completed bill of sale protects both parties and is needed to complete the transfer at the IL DMV.
Illinois charges a 6.25% state sales tax on trailer purchases (plus local tax (0-4.75%)). The buyer should complete the title transfer within 20 days of the purchase date to avoid penalties. The bill of sale serves as the primary record of the sale price, which is used to calculate any applicable sales tax. Both parties should keep copies of the signed bill of sale for their records.
6.25%
Sales tax
Yes
Titling required
Yes
Registration required
Trailers under 3,000 lbs exempt from registration in some cases
Weight threshold
Illinois Trailer Requirements
Here is what you need to know for a smooth trailer transaction in Illinois:
Important: Illinois\'s 20 days Transfer Window
Illinois requires the buyer to transfer the trailer title within 20 days of the purchase date. Late transfers may incur penalties of $20/month. The date on your bill of sale starts this clock, so visit your local Illinois Secretary of State office promptly with the signed title, bill of sale, photo ID, and payment for fees and taxes.
What the Seller Must Provide
- Signed Trailer Title: The seller must sign the title and complete the buyer's name, sale date, and sale price
- Bill of Sale: A completed bill of sale with trailer details, VIN/serial number, GVWR, sale price, and both signatures
- Lien Release: If the trailer had a loan, provide a lien release from the lender
What the Buyer Must Bring
- Signed Title: With seller's signature and all fields completed
- Bill of Sale: Signed by both parties
- Valid Photo ID: Illinois driver's license or state ID
- Title/Registration Application: Completed application form from the DMV
- Payment: Title fee ($150), registration fee ($18-$118), and sales tax (6.25% state + local)
How to Fill Out a Illinois Trailer Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Illinois trailer bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with Illinois requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name as it appears on the trailer title, current Illinois mailing address, and phone number.
Enter Buyer Information
Include the buyer's full legal name, current Illinois address, and phone number. The buyer's county of residence may determine where the transfer is processed and what local tax rate applies.
Describe the Trailer
Enter the year, make, model, trailer type (utility, enclosed, travel, flatbed, etc.), and color. Record the full VIN or serial number from the trailer's identification plate. Include the GVWR, overall length, number of axles, and hitch type.
State the Sale Price
Enter the agreed purchase price in both numbers and words. Illinois's DMV uses this figure to calculate sales tax. If the trailer is a gift, write "$0 — Gift."
Sign and Date
Both the buyer and seller must sign and date the bill of sale. Print two copies — one for each party. Illinois does not require notarization, but it is recommended for added legal protection.
Illinois Trailer Fees & Taxes
Here is a breakdown of the fees and taxes you can expect when transferring a trailer in Illinois:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| State Sales Tax | 6.25% of sale price |
| Local Tax | local tax (0-4.75%) |
| Title Fee | $150 |
| Registration Fee | $18-$118 |
| Late Transfer Penalty | $20/month |
Sample Illinois Trailer Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Illinois-specific trailer bill of sale template.
STATE OF ILLINOIS
TRAILER BILL OF SALE
Private Party Trailer Transfer
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [Illinois Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [Illinois Address]
TRAILER INFORMATION
Year: [Year] Make: [Make] Model: [Model]
VIN/Serial #: [VIN]
GVWR: [Weight] lbs Type: [Trailer Type]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Illinois Trailer Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Illinois trailer bills of sale, titling, and registration.
Official Illinois Resources
Use these official resources to verify requirements and access government forms for your Illinois trailer transaction.
Other Illinois Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Illinois? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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Illinois General Bill of Sale
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Illinois ATV Bill of Sale
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Illinois Horse Bill of Sale
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Illinois Mobile Home Bill of Sale
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Create Your Illinois Trailer Bill of Sale
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