The question of the license plate in a vehicle that is being used for moving long distance is often asked, “Does Trailers Having VIN Numbers?” The short answer to this question is “No”. Every vehicle has an assigned registration plate that is written on the driver’s license. In addition, each vehicle is equipped with a standard, factory issued, sticker that has the license plate and registration information printed on it.
When a trailer is purchased, it is recorded by the dealer with an electronic system called a VIN (vehicle Identification Number). This system is used to monitor and manage ownership records. When the owner of a motor vehicle provides the VIN to the dealership that is buying the trailer, the system will record the vehicle identification number for that particular motor vehicle. When a motor vehicle is sold, it is sent to a freight broker for delivery to the manufacturer or dealer from which the trailer was ordered. At this point, the buyer will receive a completed application for the trailer that must be signed by the seller, called a transfer paper.
All commercial trailers are regularly inspected by freight brokers as a means of ensuring that they are being sold as described and are safe for shipment. When a trailer is inspected by a freight broker, it is important to provide all appropriate documentation for that inspection including the VIN numbers of all involved vehicles. As stated above, all trailers have VIN numbers. The purpose of an inspection is to ensure that the motor vehicle being shipped is safe for shipment and is free of damage at the time of delivery. It is the responsibility of the shipper (receiver of a trailer) to obtain insurance coverage for any trailer being shipped.
There are two major categories of trailers, passenger utility trailers, and table-utility trailers. All trailers fall under one or the other classification. Although each of these trailers fall under a single classification, they can be purchased for transportation in two separate ways. There are two general types of trailers:
Trailers that are classified as travel trailers will generally be marketed to recreational users, such as tourists and people on vacation. Many people who vacation often have recreational vehicles, or RVs, as their mode of travel. The majority of people who purchase travel trailers do so to use them when traveling in their own RV. It is best if you buy your camper directly from the manufacturer or dealer as it is more difficult to obtain a replacement motor if you have purchased your camper from a rental dealer.
Gross Weight Classifications ranges from the lightest (often referred to as the “packing” trailer) to the heaviest (sometimes called the “trailer” or “coach” trailer). The largest trailers fall into the lightest category, generally designated as the GWTC. The weight of these trailers is typically less than twenty-five hundred pounds, with some models capable of carrying up to three hundred and fifty pounds. The smallest trailers are referred to as the SM or Single Mule Trailer and can weigh a maximum of thirteen hundred pounds. These trailers will not hold three hundred and fifty pounds or more but are great for lightening the load of any vehicle, particularly if your vehicle does not have a rear hitch. Be sure to get the gross weight specifications for your particular make and model when deciding which trailer will work best for your needs.
Fifth Wheels or travel trailers are designed to be driven with two wheels. The weight of this type of camper varies, but the most common is around five hundred and fifty pounds. The fifth wheels are typically the same size as fifth-wheel trailers, but the sides and back are different. A fifth wheel camper has all the necessities of a travel trailer, such as refrigerator, plumbing, and electrical wiring, but can also be driven like a backpack camper, allowing for an easier transfer from one vehicle to another.
Aluminum trailers, commonly called “tub” trailers, are the most popular. They are lightweight and compact, often less than twenty pounds overall, and most have enough space for at least two full-sized cars. Since the frames are lightweight, many aluminum trailers weigh one-third as much as five wheels trailers.