Massachusetts requires all trailers over 3000 pounds to be titled and registered. This includes travel trailers, pop-up campers, toy haulers, and boat and recreation trailers with a bed weight of over 3000 pounds.
Tow trucks, agricultural trailers, and utility trailers traveling for a short distance do not need to be registered if they exceed the 3000-pound limit. Registration of trailers weighing under 3000 pounds is not required.
Registering a Trailer in Massachusetts
Massachusetts requires all vehicles and trailers to be registered within ten days of purchase. New residents must register their vehicles as soon as they establish residency. Massachusetts has no grace period, but residency is generally considered established within 30 days of residing in the state.
New residents must also obtain a Massachusetts vehicle and trailer title when registering. This can be done at the same time.
Registration is done through the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). There are locations throughout the state and limited services for members at AAA offices.
What Paperwork Is Required To Register a Trailer in Massachusetts?
Before you can title and register your trailer, you will need insurance on the towing vehicle. The insurance agent must stamp the Registration and Title Application for the trailer, verifying that the owner has insurance. Once that is done, bring the following paperwork to the RMV:
- Registration and Title Application
- Lienholder information
- Title signed by the former owner or previous owner’s registration and bill of sale
- Driver’s license or ID
- Proof of Massachusetts residency
The title or transfer document must include the buyer’s and seller’s names and signatures and the mileage and sales price. If there is insufficient space for this information, or if the seller did not provide all information, then a Massachusetts trailer bill of sale must be included with the paperwork.
Once a vehicle receives a title and registration, it must be inspected within seven days. Owners will receive an inspection stamp. Vehicles are inspected annually.
Any erasures, white-outs, or corrections on the application or the proof of ownership will not be accepted. The application form must be printed on plain white paper in black ink. All names on the application and supporting documentation must match.
Trailer Registration Fees
If applicable, registration fees, title fees, and sales tax are paid at the time of registration. Registration fees are based on plate type. A fee schedule is available here.
Title for Trailer
Trailers in Massachusetts must be titled unless specifically exempt. The procedure for titling a trailer is the same as registering it and can be done at the same time as registration.
Insurance
Massachusetts does not require separate trailer insurance. Owners must have their application for title and registration stamped by their insurance carrier before their trailer, or other vehicles can be registered in Massachusetts. The state recommends trailer and RV owners have more than basic vehicle liability insurance, but it is not required.
Exemptions
According to Massachusetts statute, some vehicles can be operated without title or registration, including:
- Tow trucks or towing vehicles
- Agricultural trailers
- Dealer’s trailers
- Utility trailers under 3000 pounds
Massachusetts Trailer Bill of Sale Sample
Download a Massachusetts trailer bill of sale template below in PDF or Word format:
