PA Trailer Inspections

[Scrounger]

Looking for some PA residents advice. I have a 16' tandem 7700# landscape trailer. Tags and registration, but I have never had any sort of a 'safety' inspection. I've been told that I need a safety inspection and then that I didn't.

I've not found the guidelines on the PA DOT websites either.

 

[MikePA]

We have a 16', tandem axle stock trailer and, yes, it gets an annual inspection and a sticker to prove it, just like vehicles. Tires, brakes, wheels, etc. are looked at. Have no idea if landscape trailers need inspected. Why not call a trailer dealer and ask?

 

[Iowachild]

Scrounger,

An annual inspection is required for trailer 3001 lbs. and over GVWR. Here is the inspection procedure.

PA Trailer Inspections

 

[Scrounger]

Nice. I've had it four years and I've never had an inspection. Been pulled over twice with the trailer on the truck and the LEO never said a word. I was in PA too.

Any idea on the cost? If its a few bucks not big deal, but I see a another $25 or $35 bill yearly now.

Might be worth titling in another state where you have one registration and one inspection.

 

[prosperity]

Nice. I've had it four years and I've never had an inspection. Been pulled over twice with the trailer on the truck and the LEO never said a word. I was in PA too.

Any idea on the cost? If its a few bucks not big deal, but I see a another $25 or $35 bill yearly now.

Might be worth titling in another state where you have one registration and one inspection.

My trailer inspection was the same price as a vehicle inspection for a 16' tandem trailer - $26 + $2 sticker = $28.

Our local state troopers are pretty up on the regulations of trucks and trailers. $28 is better than whatever the price of a fine is. Plus, if ever in an accident, your insurance might not cover you if you don't have the PA inspection.......

 

[QRTRHRS]

My trailer inspection was the same price as a vehicle inspection for a 16' tandem trailer - $26 + $2 sticker = $28.

Our local state troopers are pretty up on the regulations of trucks and trailers. $28 is better than whatever the price of a fine is. Plus, if ever in an accident, your insurance might not cover you if you don't have the PA inspection.......

Re: insurance. Just thought that I would mention that it is a good idea to check with your insurance company about your trailer being covered or not.

Many shops don't want to deal with trailers. An RV shop may be your best bet since the techs are up on trailer brakes and hitches, etc. to get your inspection done.

 

[Iowachild]

Might be worth titling in another state where you have one registration and one inspection.

I have never owned a trailer that requires inspection, so I don't know the price, but $28.00 is more than I pay to have my pick-up inspected. Price might vary by region. As far as titling in another state, around here we are real close to NY state and many people that build their own trailers title them in NY because the process is so much easier there. Once titled, it's real easy to transfer to PA.

 

[john_bud]

Ouch! They do have ways of keeping your wallet safe from bursting due to too much money!

Glad to be a cheese head with just the cost of tags and no inspections.

 

[Chuck_Lind]

PA inspections are mandatory. Not sure how often the State Troopers check for such inspection stickers; probably would check them if you get pulled over OR, go through one of the infamous "DUI roadstops" they pull along state roads. And that's quite often!!!

Got stopped at a PA State Police gaunlet last year and they check your:

- Drivers license and any violations
- Insurance validation
- Up to date registration
- Inspection on the vehicle or trailers
- Any visible evidence of alcohol/drug use

Or...anything else that looks out of line.

Just be careful out there; they can be merciless!! I was legal all the way around; as I always am.