Buying & Selling RVs By Owner
From Class A diesel pushers to lightweight camper vans, every RV private sale involves a title, a bill of sale, and state-specific tax requirements. Here's what you need to know.
RV Types We Cover
Class A Motorhome
Large bus-style motorhomes offering maximum living space for full-time or long-trip use.
Class B Motorhome (Camper Van)
Van-based conversions that balance drivability with self-contained amenities.
Class C Motorhome
Over-cab motorhomes on a truck chassis — a popular family-friendly middle ground.
Travel Trailer
Towable RVs that attach to a standard ball hitch, from ultra-lite to full-feature.
5th Wheel Trailer
King-pin-hitch trailers offering bi-level layouts and premium amenities.
Camper Van
Custom-built or factory van conversions for minimalist overlanding and adventure travel.
RV Title Transfer: Key Differences from Boats
- RVs always have titles — unlike many states that don't title boats, all 50 states issue titles for motorhomes and most trailers.
- Towable trailers vary: Travel trailers and 5th wheels may be titled differently than motorized RVs. Some states treat lightweight trailers as non-titled.
- Odometer disclosure is required on motorhomes under 16,000 lbs and under 10 years old (federal requirement).
- Safety inspection: Many states require a safety inspection before titling a used motorhome. Check your state guide.
- Sales tax varies widely — from 0% in Montana to 7%+ in some states. Some states cap the tax on RVs.
Private-Party RV Sale Checklist
- 1
Pull the VIN history
Run the RV's VIN through CARFAX or the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) to check for salvage, flood, or odometer rollback.
- 2
Check for outstanding loans
Request a lienholder release letter if the seller has a loan. The title should show "CLEAR" — no lienholders.
- 3
Get NADA valuation
NADA Guides covers RVs extensively. Run the floorplan, slide count, and mileage for an accurate offer.
- 4
Complete an odometer disclosure statement
Required federally for most motorhomes. Include it in your bill of sale.
- 5
Sign a detailed bill of sale
Include VIN, make, model, year, mileage, all included equipment, and the as-is condition statement.
- 6
File for title in your state
Most states require title transfer within 15–60 days. Bring the original title with lien released and your bill of sale.
Trusted RV Resources
RV Trader
List your RV on the largest RV marketplace in North America
NADA Guides
Motorhome and trailer values by floorplan, year, and condition
Escrow.com
Safe payment for private RV sales over $5,000
State laws govern RV title transfer deadlines and sales tax. Find your state's RV guide.