Out-of-state sale — What You Need to Know
The buyer and seller are in different states, or the vehicle is currently registered in a different state than where the buyer will register it. This can trigger additional inspections and title-reissuing requirements.
Seller guidance
You must title/register the transfer in the state whose rules govern the sale (typically the state where the transaction occurs). Provide the buyer with your state's standard bill of sale and a clean, signed title. Some states require you to obtain a VIN inspection before releasing a title to an out-of-state buyer.
Buyer guidance
You will need to re-title the vehicle in your home state after purchase. Bring the signed out-of-state title, the bill of sale, and any required inspection certificates to your local DMV. Many states require a state-certified VIN verification and an odometer disclosure statement to process an out-of-state title.
Legal note (Michigan-specific)
MI requires a physical inspection of out-of-state vehicles if the title shows a salvage, rebuilt, or non-repairable brand. The out-of-state title is surrendered at the Secretary of State. MI charges 6% use tax on the purchase price.
Out-of-state sale checklist
- Confirm the original title is signed and notarized if required by the seller's state
- Obtain a state VIN verification form if required in the buyer's state
- Complete odometer disclosure on the title or a separate form (49 CFR Part 580)
- Gather emissions or safety inspection certificates if required in the buyer's state
- File for title transfer in the buyer's home state within the permitted timeframe
- Verify title for damage brands — inspection required if branded
- Surrender out-of-state title at MI Secretary of State
- Pay 6% use tax at Secretary of State office
- Transfer title within 15 days of establishing MI residency
Travel Trailer Safety & Recall Information
Data sourced from NHTSA safety ratings and recall databases
Average Safety Rating
0 / 5
Avg. Price Range
$10,000–$80,000
Odometer Disclosure
Not required
Safety checkpoints for travel trailer buyers
- Inspect roof and seams for water intrusion — use a moisture meter on walls and floor
- Check propane system and all LP-fueled appliances
- Verify slide-out operation and seal condition
- Test water heater, furnace, and AC in all operating modes
- Confirm smoke, CO, and LP detectors are operational and within manufacturer date
- Verify fire extinguisher is present and properly charged
- Test emergency exit window operation and condition
- Check tire DOT codes — RV-class trailer tires age out before they wear out
Common recall categories
Propane/LP GasElectricalAxle/SuspensionWater SystemFire Hazard
On average, each travel trailer model has approximately 3.5 recalls. Always check your specific vehicle at NHTSA.gov/recalls before completing a sale.
Traverse City Out-of-state sale travel trailer generator — when to file
Michigan requires title transfer within 15 days of the sale date on the bill of sale. For out-of-state sale transactions specifically, file at Michigan DMV – Traverse City (Visit https://www.michigan.gov/sos to find the nearest Traverse City office) during normal hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (verify hours with local office). Miss the 15-day window and Michigan typically charges a late-transfer penalty plus accrued use tax, and the seller can remain on the title for civil liability until the buyer completes retitling. Bring the signed title, the completed Traverse City bill of sale, your government-issued ID, and payment for the $15.00 title transfer fee plus 6% sales tax on the purchase price.
Generator reminder. Whether you keep your generator as a generator-produced document, both buyer and seller should leave the signing with an identical executed copy. The buyer needs the original to present at Michigan DMV – Traverse City; the seller keeps a duplicate to prove the date of transfer if a future liability question arises before the title fully retitles.