I bought this trailer at auction for $1,200:

1981 Fruehauf 42' Flatbed, vin 4PO4224BF096301.

It is in Iowa and I am based in Illinois.

The problem is that they will give me the title during pick-up. So, at the time of pick-up it will not yet be registered or insured in my name.

Can I send my driver to pick it up and drive it from IA to IL, and use the title and purchase documents to explain why there is no license plate? Would that be legal as a "fresh purchase"? I know that it is legal for cars.

It would be driven/towed without any cargo.

Thanks

As long as you have the title and proof of purchase with you, I would think it would be ok until you can bring it home as long as you don't have a load on the trailer. It would be better if you could get a temporary tag, but you will need to get it home one way or another. If you get stopped just show them the paperwork. You could always contact the state of Iowa and Illinois and ask them.

Yiu should be able to get a temporary tag from one of those states

for the piece of mind i'd go to your local DMV and get a temp plate. think mine costed $30

Bill of sale gets you 72 hours to register in most states. Most auctions give a temp plate, if not, you can get them online or calling. Make sure the driver knows to say, "this is not involved in commerce" if he gets stopped.