All but one of our trailers have been purchased used. Our last two were procured out of state. Pictures and videos are of particular interest, and can tell the story better than the printed word. One person's idea of a "great" condition can vary greatly from another's. The bottom line is that a visual inspection should be made before the sale is finalised.

Our first out of state trailer, was a day's drive and we took our car for inspection. It turned out to be as described, we made a deal, left a deposit and returned the following weekend to pick it up. 

The second trailer was further away. We took the truck, a trailer plate and cash. Again the trailer was what we wanted. We bought the trailer and brought it home. Both transactions went well, and we had no difficulties.

Important thngs to consider: Title. In both of our transactions, the owners had clear titles in their possession. Our state requires these for registration, and the trailers cannot be licensed without them. At the point of sale in each state, before any monies were transfered, we made sure a 3rd party notary conducted the sales' transactions, proper IDs were examined, and all the necessary paperwork was included.

Bill of sale: The title is important to have, and so is a bill of sale. Again our state requires a bill of sale and collects a tax based on the sale's amount. We cannot get a plate without this document and payment.

Plate: Many states can provide a temporary plate for the interstate transport through their local DMV. Our local AAA provides this service.

During our first purchase, we were able to examine the title in advance of the actual transaction. During the second we were not. To lessen the possibility of a worthless trip, the second owner faxed us a copy of it, to prove he had it in his possession.

I cannot stress enough, the importance of having these documents in your hand when you purchase the trailer. In some states, without them, you will have a pile of metal that you cannot use, regardless of how much money and time you have invested.

A few years ago I purchased a used boat, motor and trailer. It was sold on consigment through a dealer. I paid for them and brought them home. I was told I would be sent the titles. They didn't come in a nominal time, and when I inquired at the dealership, I was told they hadn't yet received them from the owner. More time passed and I demanded to speak directly with the original owner. I did and was then told he had a lean against them and could not afford to pay them off. Some nasty letters from my attorney and the state's attorney general's office finally broke the log jamb.

To properly purchase a long distance product, you must be prepared to spend some time travelling, or pay for an inspection, or friend to act as your agent. With a few exceptional dealers within this forum, I would not take the word of any person describing a product he is selling. You have to see it in person.

There are many scams. If the seller cannot provide additional photos, or doesn't have the trailer in his possession, forget it and move on. If an EBay sale is guaranteed, run, don't walk away. If a photo has a proof mark that doesn't match the sellers name, be skepticle. If the price is low, be wary. Again, if he can't provide proof of a clear title, don't give him a cent.

Various parts of the country are being economically affected differently, and the pricing of used products can vary. There are deals to be made, and scams to be suffered. Due dilligence is your best course of action. The right sale can make your dream come true.