Use these bill of sale templates to record vehicle, boat and equipment sale details. Compare 5 downloads below, then choose the file that fits your task.
Choose a Download
| Resource | Format | Download |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Bill of Sale Template | Word | Download Vehicle Bill of Sale Template |
| General Bill of Sale Template | Word | Download General Bill of Sale Template |
| Boat Bill of Sale Template | Word | Download Boat Bill of Sale Template |
| Equipment Bill of Sale Template | Word | Download Equipment Bill of Sale Template |
| Motorcycle Bill of Sale Template | Word | Download Motorcycle Bill of Sale Template |
For the next step, compare purchase order templates.
What Is a Bill of Sale?
A bill of sale is a written record that an item has been sold and that ownership has passed from the seller to the buyer. It usually describes the item, states the price and date, and is signed by both parties. Bills of sale are commonly used for private sales of vehicles, boats, motorcycles, equipment, furniture and other personal property. A bill of sale template gives you the usual sections in a clear format, so both parties have a record of what was agreed.
Importance of bill of sale template
Basically a bill of sale in written record and evidence of the sales transaction that shows ownership of mentioned product or vehicle has been transferred from seller to buyer in exchange something of value like cash. It confirms the transfer of ownership that can keep a seller safe from legal actions in future during an unforeseen happening or incident. Elements of bill of sale may include name of the seller, buyer’s name, contact details of both parties, description of property, vehicle or any other product, its condition, agreed sum of money as cost and statement of transfer of ownership etc.
It is an important legal document to close the sales transaction in legal manner. It can be simple or complex enough based on vehicle or property involved in the transaction. Large number of websites and blogs offer their customers to prepare these documents online by using their templates and formats. You can get a free bill of sales template below the content to prepare one as per requirements and needs of the transaction. The template can be used for different simple and complex sales transactions.
Free Bill of Sale Templates in Word
This page offers five free, one-page Word templates for common types of sale:
- Vehicle Bill of Sale Template: Word (.docx), 1 page.
- General Bill of Sale Template: Word (.docx), 1 page.
- Boat Bill of Sale Template: Word (.docx), 1 page.
- Equipment Bill of Sale Template: Word (.docx), 1 page.
- Motorcycle Bill of Sale Template: Word (.docx), 1 page.
Choose the template that matches the item, fill in the details and print two copies so the buyer and seller each keep a signed original.
What a Bill of Sale Usually Includes
- Names, addresses and contact details of the seller and buyer.
- Date of sale.
- A clear description of the item: make, model, year, color and condition.
- Identification numbers, such as a VIN, hull identification number or serial number.
- Odometer or hours-of-use reading, where relevant.
- Purchase price and payment method.
- Terms of sale, such as “as is” or any warranty given.
- Signatures of both parties, and a notary section where used.
Types of Bills of Sale
- Vehicle bill of sale: cars, trucks and vans, often with an odometer disclosure.
- Motorcycle bill of sale: includes engine size and VIN.
- Boat bill of sale: covers the vessel, motor and trailer.
- Equipment bill of sale: machinery, tools and business assets.
- General bill of sale: furniture, electronics and other personal property.
How to Complete a Bill of Sale
Agree the price and terms first, then fill in every field of the matching template. Copy identification numbers directly from the item or its title or registration documents and double-check them, because a wrong number can cause problems later. Describe the condition honestly and note anything included in the sale, such as a trailer, accessories or spare parts.
Both parties should review the completed form, then sign and date it. Each keeps a copy. For vehicles and boats, the bill of sale is usually only one part of the transfer: the title, registration and any tax or reporting steps are handled separately with the relevant authority.
Tips for Safe Private Sales
- Meet in a safe, public place and inspect the item before paying.
- Check that the seller is entitled to sell the item, such as the name on the title.
- Use a secure payment method and record it on the form.
- Keep copies of the bill of sale, title and receipts.
- Check whether your area requires notarization or a specific official form.
Important: this page and these templates are general information, not legal advice. Bill of sale, title transfer, tax and notarization requirements differ by country, state and type of item. Check with your local motor vehicle, boating or licensing authority, or a lawyer, before relying on a template.
Here Are Editable Bill of Sale Templates
Download these original bill of sale templates for Microsoft Word. They are general templates, not legal advice; check your state’s title and notary requirements before use.
Vehicle Bill of Sale Template (Word)
A car and vehicle bill of sale with seller and buyer details, make, model, VIN, odometer disclosure, price, payment method, as-is terms and notary section.
General Bill of Sale Template (Word)
A simple general bill of sale for furniture, electronics and other personal property with item description, price, payment method, as-is terms and signatures.
Boat Bill of Sale Template (Word)
A boat bill of sale covering the vessel, hull identification number, registration, motor and trailer details, price, terms and notary acknowledgment.
Equipment Bill of Sale Template (Word)
An equipment bill of sale for machinery, tools and business assets with manufacturer, serial number, hours of use, price, pickup terms and signatures.
Motorcycle Bill of Sale Template (Word)
A motorcycle bill of sale with make, model, engine size, VIN, odometer reading, purchase price, as-is terms, signatures and optional notary block.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bill of sale template?
It is a ready-made form with the sections a bill of sale usually includes, such as buyer and seller details, item description, price, terms and signatures.
What does “as is” mean on a bill of sale?
It generally means the buyer accepts the item in its current condition without a warranty from the seller. The exact effect can depend on local law.
Does a bill of sale need to be notarized?
It depends on where you live and the type of item. Some places require notarization for certain vehicles or boats; others do not. Check local rules.
Is a bill of sale the same as a title?
No. A bill of sale records the sale, while a title is the official ownership document for items such as vehicles. Both may be needed to transfer ownership.
How many copies of a bill of sale should I make?
Make at least two signed copies, one for the buyer and one for the seller.
