tracing trailer ownership via vin number

Hi,

That's a bummer.

I would guess that if someone is still paying the PTI registration, then the trailer still has an owner somewhere. California DMV isn't going to let someone else register it. I doubt there is any way for you to register the trailer.

You might want to try contacting a registration service in your area. They might be able to help, but it can get pricey. I will PM you a registration service that was advertised in the most recent edition of a trailer restoration magazine I subscribe to.

I have no experience with this company.

EDIT:  I just read your first post introducing your Shasta.  Nice looker, but how is it related to California when you bought it in Pennsylvania and drove it to Ohio?

Buying trailers in one state and trying to register it in another state can be filled with hassles.  I know from personal experience. But, most buyers(including myself) don't know that.

Rod

Sounds like a can of worms to me. If the permanent license has been paid every 5 years then someone else has title to it. In California there are only three ways to stop paying registration on a trailer. 

1. Sell it and turn title over to the new owner.

2. Report it stolen to the local authorities and take that paperwork to the DMV.

3. Legally junk it which would mean anyone wanting to restore it afterwards would have to obtain a salvage title which I have done in the past. Not cheap and not really easy but is possible. 

So who knows why a person who no longer possesses the trailer would continue to pay the registration fees on it? 

I would dismantle it for parts and forget about trying to obtain title to it. If you can't find the legal owner you are up the creek.