Free Trailer VIN Decoder
Enter a trailer VIN to see who built it, the model year, the trailer type, and the specs the manufacturer reported. Free, no sign-up, straight from NHTSA's database.
Your trailer
Data from NHTSA's vPIC database. Builders report different amounts of detail, so confirm specs on the trailer's certification label.
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Get the free Price GuideHow to use the trailer VIN decoder
- Find the VIN. Look on the certification label on the front left side of the trailer, usually on the tongue. See where to find the VIN on a trailer.
- Type all 17 characters. Zeros, not the letter O. The decoder checks the format and the check digit before it looks anything up.
- Read the results. You get the manufacturer, model year, plant, and any trailer details the builder reported. Then run the free recall check.
What the 17 characters mean
Characters 1 to 3 name the manufacturer. Characters 4 to 8 describe the trailer, in a code each builder sets. Character 9 is a check digit that catches typos. Character 10 is the model year, character 11 is the plant, and 12 to 17 are the serial number. Small builders that make fewer than 1,000 trailers a year use a 9 as the third character. Our trailer VIN breakdown walks through each position.
Trailer VIN decoder FAQ
Is this trailer VIN decoder free?
Yes. It is free with no sign-up. It reads the public vehicle database run by NHTSA, the U.S. Department of Transportation agency that assigns VIN rules.
What can a trailer VIN tell me?
The manufacturer, model year, plant, and whatever trailer details the builder reported to NHTSA, such as trailer type, body type, length, and axle count. It does not show the owner, title status, or accident history.
Why did my trailer VIN not decode?
Small and regional trailer builders often report very little to NHTSA, so a valid VIN can come back with only the manufacturer and year. Homemade trailers may have a state-assigned VIN that does not decode at all. Check the certification label on the front left side of the trailer for the full details.
Where do I find the VIN on my trailer?
On the federal certification label on the front half of the left side, usually on the tongue or the front of the frame rail. Many builders also stamp it into the tongue near the coupler. It is also on your title and registration.
How do I check a trailer for recalls?
Use the recall link that appears after you decode, or enter the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Trailer recalls often cover axles, couplers, tires, brakes, and wiring.