Enclosed Trailers
Flatdeck Trailers
Utility Trailers
Dump Trailers
Ag Transports
Horse & Stock Trailers
Over the last two years, there’s been an undeniable spike in trailer thefts across Canada, with buyers often left holding the bag. In Alberta, one thief alone duped unsuspecting buyers out of $140K. In Ontario, thieves have taken advantage of a loophole that allows them to resell stolen trailers as “homemade,” exempting them from the VIN number requirement.
The frequency of this and other scams have skyrocketed. In 2013, 1,291 of Ontario’s 100,155 registered trailers were designated homemade. Ten years later, that number shot up to 15,405 of 99,350.
The term “buyer beware” has never carried more weight. As one of Western Canada’s largest trailer dealers, we’d like to share a few tips to help you avoid increasingly sophisticated stolen trailer sale scams.
Look for these red flags:
- Irresistibly low price. The number 1 sign of a scam is a price that seems too good to be true.
- Suspicious ad photos. If an ad shows you stock photos instead of actual, current images, keep looking elsewhere for a more reliable deal.
- Seller is "unable" to show you the VIN number. He most likely means “unwilling,” and for obvious reasons. “It must have fell off.” or “I know the guy I bought it from” is no substitute for a VIN number you can use to get the real history of purchase or theft.
- A "used" trailer that doesn't look used at all. New trailer lots are a favorite target for thieves. They’re not always easy to get, but pristine trailers have great markup and huge appeal for unsuspecting buyers, especially at low, low prices.
What to do to protect yourself:
If the seller can’t show you a VIN number on a trailer’s existing registration, you may still be able to check its history through one of these agencies:
- Saskatchewan VIN search
- VIN Verification Services Inc. - Alberta and Saskatchewan
- Replacing or Applying for a Vehicle Identification Number – Manitoba Public Insurance
- B.C. Assigned VIN program
With 12 locations across Western Canada, Flaman offers top-brand trailers sales and rentals. Our well-maintained and road-ready enclosed, flat deck, utility, dump, ag transport, specialty, and horse and livestock trailers are backed by certified service, professional Parts Department, and flexible financing. Call or visit your nearest location.