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Before purchasing a used trailer

We are proud to say that many ShoreLand’r trailers from the 1970s are still in service. Many of those trailers are part of used boat sales. If you’re in the market for a used boat, it’s important that you ask the seller if he or she has documentation associated with the trailer that shows proof of a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). If you have the VIN from a sale, registering the trailer – if required in your state – is much easier; if you don’t have the VIN, your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will be in charge of the process to register the trailer. Sometimes the process is simple (providing the weight of the trailer itself) or complicated (a bonding process that requires money down and the trailer to set unused until the DMV exhausts reasonable efforts to make sure it’s not stolen).

Where the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is Located

You should find two decals, one behind the tongue on the left side of the inside of the frame – the second by the right taillight on the outside of the side frame. This is a 17 digit number that begins with 1MD signifying that it is a ShoreLand’r manufactured by Midwest Industries, Inc. Since outside elements – UV Rays, salty or acidic water, and temperature variations – are tough on VIN decals, these may not be entirely readable after years of exposure. If this is so, check your receipts and records from your purchase; this VIN should be recorded somewhere. If you do not have it in your records, check with the previous owner if you are not the original purchaser.

No VIN or proof of VIN exists

In the event that you are not able to locate the VIN on the trailer, on paperwork, or from the seller, please contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to see what your options are for registration.

Applying for a Duplicate Manufacturer Statement of Origin (MSO)

If you live in a state where you did not have to register a trailer, but a person who wants to purchase your used boat and trailer does, he or she may ask for the trailer’s MSO. If you lost this documentation, you may apply for a duplicate if you have the appropriate documentation and your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) supports your request in writing.

View Our MSO Policy/Application Form PDF

Applying for Duplicate Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Decals

ShoreLand’r can only replace VIN decals when appropriate documentation is available per our policy/application. ShoreLand’r reserves the right to require DMV approval prior to duplicating any VIN decal(s).

View Our VIN Policy/Application Form PDF

Letter of Recall

Letter of Recall inquiry form

Trailer Weight

A trailer’s weight is need for two reasons:

  1. To figure out the weight of the boat and trailer package for towing purposes.
  2. To register the trailer in their home state if the weight is required (rules vary).

Here is a general scope of trailer weight ranges offered for guidance only and not to be considered as the exact weight of your trailer.

For a specific trailer’s weight, utilize a certified scale without the boat on the trailer. Certified scales may be found at truck stops and locations listed on some RVer sites. Fees may apply.

Number of Axles Trailer Capacity Range Trailer Weight Range
One 700 – 1500 lb. 200 – 370 lb.
One 2000 – 3400 lb. 500 – 645 lb.
     
Two 4000 – 5500 lb. 780 – 1330 lb.
Two 5800 – 8000 lb. 1600 – 2000 lb.
     
Three 9500 – 15000 lb. 2200 – 3270 lb.
Tips from ShoreLand'r
ShoreLand'r Trailering Tips

To get the most out of boating you have to get the most out of your trailer. That's why we've put together this list of tips to make life easier.

Free Boat U.S. Membership
Free Boat U.S. Membership

To protect you in the unlikely event of a breakdown, all ShoreLand’r trailers come with a FREE 90-day BoatU.S. Membership. It features over 26 benefits, including Trailer Assist and Tow and on-the-water towing services.

Brake Laws
Brake Laws

ShoreLand’r is the first major trailer manufacturer to have brakes standard on all trailers with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) at 3000 lb. and above.

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