Trailer Registration Question

[matbow]

Hi all, new member here and I'm hoping for a simple solution to this query as I haven't been able to find one on the net so far!

I'm looking to buy a used boat and trailer in Massachusetts (where I am a resident) and drive it over to upstate New York where my family has a vacation home. It will stay in NY for the foreseeable future. I'll be registering the boat in NY, but not sure what I should do about the trailer...

What I want to know is what's the easiest option so I can transport a boat ASAP to NY. Is it possible to buy a boat with a trailer that is already registered in MA and transfer the registration over to me, or is the MA trailer linked to the owners insurance/vehicle so I would have to apply for a new registration no matter what? If the trailer isn't registered at all, how do I legally get it to NY so i can get it registered there?

Thanks for any input.

 

[choppywaters]

Re: Trailer Registration Question

Just register it in Maine! They are really cheap to do so. If you don't want to go that route register it where its going to be staying, they would give you a temp. reg. just like anywhere else until you get the permanent one. In PA (I'm pretty sure) the vehicle/trailer has to be registered in PA if its going to be there more than 90 days straight, its something weird like that. Or just register it where the boat is registered and be done with it.

 

[bigdee]

Re: Trailer Registration Question

Of the 3 options I would register it in the state that is cheapest on fees and taxes. I register my vehicles outside of the county I live in to avoid high taxes. If you have a mailing address in NY it is legal to register it there but check property tax rates first. Not sure if Maine would charge property tax though so that might be the best bet.

 

[matbow]

Re: Trailer Registration Question

Thanks for the responses.

Just to clarify my issue - when I purchase a used boat which has a trailer with no registration/license plates how do I legally transport it anywhere? Surely I don't have to buy the boat and leave it with the seller until I can get to the DMV to get a registration? It looks like Mass don't even even temp one's so I could be waiting weeks to get them.

Thanks.

 

[MH Hawker]

Re: Trailer Registration Question

You should be able to get a one way permit in the state its in so you can move it.. Some require it and others don't, but it will be a good idea to call them and ask.

 

[choppywaters]

Re: Trailer Registration Question

After you buy a boat you still need to go to a notary, I would just ask them to be sure.