Campers are not motorhomes — the paperwork differs

A travel trailer, pop-up, fifth wheel, or truck camper is towed. It has no engine and no odometer, so the federal odometer disclosure that applies to cars and motorhomes does not apply here. What matters instead is the identification number, the weight ratings, and what is physically included in the sale.

Finding the VIN or serial number

On most towables the number is stamped on a plate riveted to the A-frame or tongue, just ahead of the coupler, and repeated on a paper sticker inside a cabinet or closet door. Copy it exactly as printed, character for character, and confirm it matches the title or registration before either party signs.

Weight ratings worth recording

• GVWR — the maximum loaded weight the camper is rated for. It is on the manufacturer's federal certification label.
• Dry weight — the camper empty, before water, propane, and gear.
• Axle count — single or tandem. Buyers use this to check what their tow vehicle can handle.

Recording these does not create a warranty — the as-is clause still governs condition — but it prevents a later dispute about which unit was sold.

List what goes with it

Campers are sold with removable extras: propane tanks, batteries, awnings, stabilizer jacks, sway bars, hitches, and sometimes a set of keys for a rooftop box. Write the included items into the description field so both parties agree on what leaves the driveway.

Titles and registration

States differ on whether towable campers are titled, registered only, or exempt below a certain weight. Check your state's requirements with the agency that handles vehicle registration. If no title exists, the bill of sale plus prior registration is the usual paper trail the buyer will present.

Bill of sale by state

The template works nationwide. Popular state pages:

• Texas bill of sale
• Florida bill of sale
• Georgia bill of sale
• California bill of sale
• North Carolina bill of sale

Also need one for something else?

• Car bill of sale
• Boat bill of sale
• Motorcycle bill of sale
• Trailer bill of sale
• ATV bill of sale
• RV bill of sale
• Mobile home bill of sale
• Jet ski bill of sale
• Snowmobile bill of sale
• Simple bill of sale
• Horse bill of sale
• Equipment bill of sale
• Golf cart bill of sale
• Tractor bill of sale
• Livestock bill of sale