When it comes to the VIN number on a semi-trailer, you may be wondering where to find it! The VIN number is important to have and find, as it is the unique code that is given to distinguish one vehicle from all of the others. Essentially, the VIN number is the fingerprint of the vehicle. So, where can you find it on a semi-trailer?
Where are VIN Numbers located on Semi-Trailers? Generally, the VIN will be located on the front half of the semi-trailer on the driver’s side in a fixed position (can’t be on a moving part) because anyone must be able to read the VIN number from the outside. The VIN often has a contrasting color behind it to make it more visible.
You may be thinking to yourself, isn’t a VIN number just a random assortment of numbers? No! VIN numbers are actually very important. Below, you will find exactly what a VIN number is and what it signifies.
Where to Find the VIN Number on a Semi-Trailer
When it comes to finding the VIN Number on the Semi-trailer, it may seem like a complicated task due to the fact that there are many different types of semi-trailers. Some of the more popular versions of semi-trailers include:
- Flatbed Trailers
- Enclosed and Dry Van Trailers
- Refrigerated Trailers
- Reefers
- Lowboy Trailers
- Step Deck Trailers
- Removable Gooseneck Trailers
- Side Kit Trailers
- Extendable Double Drop Trailers
- Stretch Double and Single Drop Trailers
- And more!
Despite the type of trailer you are attempting to find the VIN for, the VIN number will still be located in the general area of the left side of the front of the trailer. The VIN is placed in this location so that it will be visible, despite what type of vehicle it is attached to. This way, you will be able to easily find the VIN number without having to move or look under any part of the semi-trailer.
You will know that you have found the VIN number of the trailer because the letters are going to have some kind of contrast compared to the color of the trailer. The VIN number will also be stated in block numbers and letters that are going to be in the English language.
VIN Importance for Buyers and Sellers
The VIN number is going to be important for a number of reasons, especially if you plan on purchasing or selling your own semi-trailer. The VIN number is going to be able to provide both parties with vital information about the semi-trailer.
Buyers
Much like with other big purchases in your life, the purchase of a semi-trailer is no different. When you are investing that much money into a semi-trailer, you want to make sure that you are getting what you paid for! This is why it will be vital that during the buying process, you will be able to find the VIN number and look the semi-trailer up.
A VIN number will be able to help you
- Check the history of the trailer for accidents
- Check the history of the trailer for past repairs
- Check the history of the trailer for past owners
Generally, if a trailer has a cleaner history compared to others, this will place the trailer at a higher value. This way, you will also be able to negotiate on the price of a semi-trailer if you are not impressed with the history of the semi-trailer. By having the ability to read a VIN number, this can prevent you from being taken advantage of during the buying process.
Sellers
If you are on the opposite side of the buying and selling process, it is also necessary that you have the VIN number for the semi-trailer and that you can provide it for a buyer. By having the VIN number at hand, which shows the history of your semi, this can help build a sense of trust with any buyer that is looking at your trailer.
When you have a trailer that has a clean history, this means that you may be able to sell your semi-trailer for a higher price as well. By taking excellent care of your trailer and being honest about the history, you may be able to get more money and sell it even quicker.
How to Check a VIN Number
Whether you are buying or selling your semi-trailer, it all comes down to the history of the vehicle. Once you have been able to locate the VIN number, do you know what to do with it next? If not, you can follow the step-by-step guide below to teach you everything you need to know about a semi-trailer VIN number!
Step One: Read the VIN Number
You may be thinking that the VIN number is a series of random numbers, but that is not true! In fact, the VIN number is unique and is meant to identify the truck and that truck alone! This way, it is impossible to mistake the trailer with any other vehicle.
As you learn to read the VIN number, you will find that it is going to provide a vast amount of information on the vehicle, including:
- The Company Identifier
- Trail Product Line
- Trailer Length
- Number of Axels
- Check Digit
- Year of Manufacture
- Production Plant
- Serial Number
Step Two: Find a Free VIN Checker
Once you have the VIN number in hand, it is time to do your homework! This will be vital before any purchase to make sure that you are getting what you are paying for! Luckily, there are free websites that will check the VIN for you. Once you have plugged in your information about the VIN number, you will be able to check out the history of the trailer and all the information you need.
One of the most vital aspects of the VIN that you will want to check for is the history of the semi-trailer itself. This way, you will be able to make sure that the trailer has never been in an accident and that it isn’t a stolen trailer. Other aspects you may want to know about the trailer include:
- Inspection History
- Theft Records
- Structural Damage
- Lien Records
- Damage
- Repossession Records
A VIN number is also important when your mechanic is repairing your equipment. By knowing the VIN number, this will help make sure that your mechanic is putting in the right parts. This is also useful information, as you will be able to tell the history of the trailer, such as maintenance history and accident reports.
If you have any questions based around the semi-trailer and the history or maintenance, make sure you ask any and all questions before purchasing a trailer. Hopefully, any seller will be up-front with you about the past of the equipment. By doing your homework, you may find yourself ahead of the seller and can build a sense of trust if the trailer is in the shape as described.
While it may seem like extra work to find the VIN and do the research, it will be well worth your time. By having more knowledge now, it will save you from wasting your hard-earned money on a lemon, and you will be much happier with your purchases from this point on! As long as you are looking in the proper place for the VIN number, you will be good as gold.