Registering an open trailer (car hauler) in NC | FerrariChat
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Registering an open trailer (car hauler) in NC

Discussion in 'North & South Carolina' started by BrianC, Sep 9, 2013.

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  1. BrianC

    BrianC Formula Junior

    Apr 6, 2004
    908
    North Augusta, SC
    Full Name:
    Brian C
    #1 BrianC, Sep 9, 2013
    Let's say (hypothetically) I purchased an aluminum, open car hauler (dble axle) from a guy in South Carolina where they don't require a tag or title. I live in Charlotte, NC. Technically, I'm supposed to register it in NC and get a title and tag (just like a car).

    Would it be possible to use the trailer without a tag or registration, and if I get pulled, explain that I'm borrowing the trailer from my parents who live in SC? Has anyone done this, or is it just best to pay the fees, register/tag it, and save the headache?
     
  2. MASR04

    MASR04 Formula 3

    Feb 20, 2013
    1,505
    Eastern NC
    Full Name:
    Sean
    #2 MASR04, Sep 9, 2013
    Save yourself the headache, trouble, and grey hairs over the Law..

    Just did exactly what you are describing..

    Steps:

    1) Go to DMV license tag and request title Number for trailer
    2) Purchase or Borrow "Etcher or Stencil" Approx $25
    3) Stencil Vin# on Tongue and Axel
    4) Take to DMV inspection site
    5) They will provide you with inspection form
    6) Go back to DMV license tage place and register vehicle


    *They don't care about lights, just that it is road worthy and not a danger to anyone. Lights are required if the trailer blocks the vehicles lights like a horse trailer.

    Best wishes
     
  3. BrianC

    BrianC Formula Junior

    Apr 6, 2004
    908
    North Augusta, SC
    Full Name:
    Brian C
    #3 BrianC, Sep 9, 2013
    Thanks, Sean. This trailer already has a VIN#. Just no Title at this point.
     
  4. MASR04

    MASR04 Formula 3

    Feb 20, 2013
    1,505
    Eastern NC
    Full Name:
    Sean
    #4 MASR04, Sep 11, 2013
    You should be golden then..
     
  5. BrianC

    BrianC Formula Junior

    Apr 6, 2004
    908
    North Augusta, SC
    Full Name:
    Brian C
    #5 BrianC, Oct 3, 2013
    Ok, I completed steps 1 -4. Since the trailer is factory-made and did not come from SC with a title, the Officer at the Dept of License & Theft told me I have no proof of ownership (even though I have a bill of sale). He said I will have to obtain a NC title by filing an indemnity bond. I have to explain in an affidavit why I have no title, get that document notarized, return to the inspection site and have it inspected, then purchase an indemnity bond (not sure for what amount), then return to DMV to apply for title and registration/tag.

    What a pain! Has anyone else gone through this process? Any idea how much this will cost?



     
  6. 308nut

    308nut Formula 3
    Lifetime Rossa Owner

    Jul 22, 2002
    1,881
    NOLA/Covington
    Full Name:
    Wade
    #6 308nut, Oct 3, 2013
    your trailer should have an MSO certificate of origin

    The indemnity bond will need to be for 50% of the value of the trailer, should cost you about $30 Ive done this a few times on cars, it is a pain in the butt , but its really not that difficult just annoying. If you need help come see me plus Lori is a Notary


    Wade
     
  7. MASR04

    MASR04 Formula 3

    Feb 20, 2013
    1,505
    Eastern NC
    Full Name:
    Sean
    #7 MASR04, Oct 3, 2013
    This is hore manure! I have a title and those are the steps I followed.. Call that inspection officer first thing tomorrow morning and ask why I was able to complete..

    Shoot me PM for phone number if you wanna have a phone conversation.. I HATE govt - let's take it to em!
     

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