How to Get VIN Assigned on 1975 Boat Trailer

Published 11/18/2015

Question:

I have a 1975 king custom boat trailer. The serial # plate is there but cant read it, how can I find the number?

asked by: James R

Helpful Expert Reply:

A trailer VIN is usually 17 digits long and includes a lot of information, including the maker, the number of axles, weight rating, etc. The first three characters identify the manufacturer. If your vintage boat trailer's VIN is no longer visible on the original sticker you may be able to submit photos of it to the manufacturer. If by chance these first three characters are still visible that might be enough to at least determine the company that made the trailer, and whether they are still in business.

If the trailer is indeed 40 years old there is a good chance the maker no longer exists. I contacted King Trailer (Marysville, WA) but they did not exist in 1975 so your King trailer was made by another manufacturer. There is also the King Company (Wausau, WI) but they do not currently make boat trailers.

Another way to go is to take the trailer to your state's Highway Patrol. This agency can inspect and weigh your trailer and actually generate a VIN for it. This is how home-made trailers can be made road-legal. If you have a title certificate, receipt or other documentation with a VIN on it then this can be helpful in obtaining a new VIN sticker.

expert reply by: Adam R