If you plan to buy or sell a recreational vehicle (RV), it’s wise to have a bill of sale. This legal document records a transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer and includes pertinent information such as the parties’ names, identifying information for the vehicle, and the transaction terms.
Having such documentation identifies the legal owner and protects you in case there are questions regarding ownership at some point in the future.
What Is an RV Bill of Sale?
An RV bill of sale documents the transfer of possession of a recreational vehicle (RV) from a seller to a buyer.
It also serves as proof of the monetary transaction and details the terms of the sale the parties agree to.
When Do I Need It?
You should use an RV bill of sale any time you sell or take ownership of any recreational vehicle through a private party transaction.
Types of RVs
There are several types of recreational vehicles, and an RV bill of sale should be used for each type.
It’s important to note a description of the RV you’re selling or purchasing on the RV bill of sale:
- Class A, B, or C motorhomes run independently of another vehicle. They do not have to be towed behind a truck.
- Fifth-wheel trailers must be towed behind another vehicle and are named as such because the fifth wheel hangs over the top of the towing vehicle for a more secure hitch connection.
- Travel trailers must also be towed behind another vehicle but can be disconnected so that you can use your vehicle once you have reached your destination.
- Pop-up or fold-out trailers are cost-effective options that allow you to pull your RV behind an SUV or truck and then fold out the sides to create more space when you’re ready to camp.
- Sports utility RV or toy trailers have extra storage capacity so that you can haul your ATV or snowmobile inside.
What Should You Include in an RV Bill of Sale?
The following information should be on your RV bill of sale:
- Names and personal contact information for both the seller and the buyer
- The agreed-upon sales price of the RV
- The RV make, model, type, color, registration number, license plate number, and vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Any special terms for the sale, such as an inspection and who will pay for it
- Date of the sale
- The signatures of both the seller and the buyer
- A witness signature and contact information or a notary public acknowledgment
How to Sell an RV
Step 1- Prepare Your RV for Sale
Make any necessary repairs and thoroughly clean your recreational vehicle. You may consider hiring a professional detailer to make your RV as attractive to prospective buyers as possible.
Take photos of the vehicle’s interior and exterior when you advertise it for sale.
Step 2- Have Your RV Appraised
Have a local recreational vehicle dealership provide you with an estimated value for your RV. Compare the appraisal to other similar vehicles in the area and online.
Here are some websites that you can use for comparison:
Step 3- Set Your Asking Price
Once you know the value of your RV, you can determine an asking price, which is where you will want to start your negotiations.
Step 4- Decide How You Will Advertise Your RV
You have several options for advertising your recreational vehicle, including:
- Selling to a local dealership
- Advertising online via social media, Craigslist, eBay, or other sales websites
- Parking the RV in a high-visibility lot with a sign
- Using a recreational vehicle sales website, such as Campingworld.com, RVUSA.com, or RVTrader.com.
If you’re advertising online, include photos from different angles and in various lights so prospective buyers can see the RV clearly.
You should also include essential details, including the vehicle’s make, model, year, mileage, dimensions, color, amenities, features, asking price, and contact information.
Schedule showings with prospective buyers who contact you online or via phone. Avoid meeting with strangers in isolated areas alone.
Step 5- Negotiate Your Price and Prepare an RV Bill of Sale
Determine the sale price. A prospective buyer may request an inspection of the vehicle from a third-party mechanic before closing.
If that occurs, you must decide if a down payment or deposit is required to hold the RV.
Write out a bill of sale that includes all pertinent information.
Step 6- Gather the Necessary Paperwork
The buyer and the seller will need to come to the closing with the following:
- Seller- The RV bill of sale, RV certificate of title, any past or current registration paperwork for the vehicle, and a valid photo ID.
- Service and maintenance records, vehicle owner’s manual, and warranty information are not required but are helpful for the buyer.
- Buyer- Payment in the form of a check, cash, or money order and a valid photo ID
Step 7- Sign the RV Bill of Sale
The seller and the buyer must sign the RV bill of sale to constitute a legal agreement. You should strongly consider having your signatures witnessed by a notary public.
Provide both parties with a copy of the RV bill of sale, who should keep it for their records.
You may also want to exchange photocopies of driver’s licenses to verify one another’s identities.
Use our RV bill of sale template to get started. It can be saved and printed in both PDF and Word formats.
RV Bill of Sale Sample
Below is an example of an RV bill of sale form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Write My RV Bill of Sale?
Yes. Writing your RV bill of sale is easy using our downloadable template.
Can I Create an RV Bill of Sale Online?
Yes. Our easy-to-use RV bill of sale is available in Word and pdf formats.
Should I Sign the RV Bill of Sale?
Once you’ve added all the information necessary to your RV bill of sale, both parties must sign the document. It’s a good idea to have a notary public witness your signatures if there are any questions about the authenticity of the signatures or the validity of the transaction later.