What Is Shop-Built With Regard to Vehicles & Trailers in Louisiana?
- When a trailer is constructed to meet the owner's specifications, it is considered a "shop-built" trailer. The builder may be anyone aside from a manufacturer. Shop-built trailers should come with an original invoice stating that the trailer was fabricated according the the owner's specifications.
- According to the Louisiana Department of Motor Vehicles, a custom-built vehicle is any motor vehicle that has been assembled or completely reconstructed using new or used parts from kits. All receipts for parts and labor must be collected as proof of this assembly.
- The Office of State Police must issue serial numbers to shop-built trailers and a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to a custom-built vehicle. Trailer paperwork can be brought in to the Office of State Police. Administration then issues the trailer a serial number and that paperwork is brought to the Department of Motor Vehicles for registration.
Custom-built cars, on the other hand, are handled a bit differently. When the paperwork is collected, it is necessary to call the Office of State Police. A trooper will be sent out and will look over the paperwork. The officer then inspects the vehicle and issues a receipt of inspection. This paperwork can be brought in to the Department of Motor Vehicles to register the vehicle.