MN resident buying a trailer in WI

What is the process for a MN resident to buy a trailer in WI, but then register it in MN? I’m not sure how this works on a new utility trailer, can anyone fill me in?

I don’t want to get double taxed on this and to get MN registration, you have to pay based on the value of the trailer. So essentially do I get double taxed if I buy in WI (paying WI sales tax) and then register in MN and have to again pay tax on the value of the trailer?

Anyone know how this works and will I essentially come out paying more buy buying in WI?

Thanks.

Grouse

Pretty sure you just have to pay the difference. Might be just an extra 1% depending on the county you will license it in. If you are buying from a dealer, ask them. Shouldn’t have to pay tax twice.

Take the title to the DMV and get it transferred just like any other vehicle

Jesse Krook wrote:

Take the title to the DMV and get it transferred just like any other vehicle

The issue is not where to go. In MN when you transfer a title, you pay sales tax on the value every time. Hence my question because I will have already paid sales tax in WI as well.

Dusty Gesinger wrote:

Pretty sure you just have to pay the difference. Might be just an extra 1% depending on the county you will license it in. If you are buying from a dealer, ask them.

Your post makes sense, I would hope it is that way. The dealer had no idea of the specifics he just said that it’s “easy to do”.

The problem here is that if I buy the trailer and it turns into a double tax situation I will have paid more by buying in Wisconsin by a substantial margin. No local dealer in Minnesota has this trailer in stock or I would buy in Minnesota and save all the hassle.

Grouse

I’m pretty sure I just needed proof of taxes paid, sales receipt.

Dusty Gesinger wrote:

I’m pretty sure I just needed proof of taxes paid, sales receipt.

This is it.

Grouse you shouldn’t have to pay tax in Wisconsin. You will a document called “place of origin” or something like that. Take that and bill of sale, apply for title, registration, and pay MN tax.

My son just bought a new trailer in Ill. paid no tax. Registered in Wisconsin and paid tax.

Awesome info, guys. Much appreciated. This should go smoothly, here’s hoping that I can get this done without a big hassle.

I appreciate all the replies. Many thanks.

Grouse

I was in the same boat a few weeks ago looking at trailers. Found what I wanted in Wisconsin for a few hundred cheaper but with having to pay tax and registration at home and the DMV not being open at the time I spent the couple hundred extra at M&G and let them take care of it.

Just went through Same ordeal if you paid taxes in Wisconsin show them that at dmv. You will or should not be taxed twice.

Slightly older post to bring up but @thefamousgrouse did you have to make an appointment for the DMV? Long story short I just picked up a trailer in Wisco and need to get it registered here in MN.

Was trying to find forms so I could fill them out before going in but seems like they don’t have them online. Unless I’m just not seeing it.

Yes, I had to make an appointment and do everything at the DMV. I actually like the new appointment system because at least you know when you’re going to be able to get in without showing up and finding a two-hour wait.

There isn’t a form. You need the receipt and the manufacturers certificate or whatever that is called? It looks like a title and is included with your paperwork but it’s not actually a title.

Make sure your VIN number from the trailer matches the VIN number as included on all of your paperwork. The lady at the DMV told me this is a major issue because the sellers get trailers and paperwork mixed up. The DMV won’t check your trailer but make sure that you do because if the VIN number should not match the paperwork you’ll have a mess if you ever sell it.

Grouse

Thanks for the follow up, TheFamousGrouse. Good information.

Thanks for the information Grouse, looks like I’ve got an appointment with the DMV in my future.