Optional Inspection Hold
An optional inspection-hold tool for buyers and sellers arranging a trailer inspection. Use the optional inspection-hold tools or arrange payment independently. Howdy does not arbitrate buyer-seller disputes.
What Is Optional Inspection Hold?
An inspection hold can help document purchase intent before an inspection. Review the current checkout terms before paying. Hold, capture, and release depend on the payment flow and provider. Howdy does not guarantee the trailer, payment outcome, or either party’s performance.
For Buyers
- ID verification so you know who you are meeting
- Place an Inspection Hold to reserve a trailer
- Optional secure transaction tools if you decide to buy
- No need to carry large amounts of cash or risk a cash app
- Keep your purchase fully documented and organized
How It Works: Step by Step
A structured option for arranging an inspection
Buyer chooses a down payment amount (over $200) and authorizes it. Then completes ID verification and confirms purchase intent to capture the payment.
The buyer's bank reserves the funds, but nothing is taken from their account yet. This shows the seller they're serious and have the money ready.
After down payment is captured and purchase intent confirmed, buyer and seller coordinate inspection time. Contact information is shared only after payment capture. Meet safely and inspect thoroughly.
- • Test the trailer
- • Check VIN and paperwork
- • Bring a mechanic if desired
- • Ask questions
After inspection, three outcomes are possible:
If a trailer does not match the listing, document the concern and communicate with the seller. Review the payment status and applicable hold terms; release and capture depend on the payment processor.
Why This Beats Traditional Methods
No more risky cash transactions or dealing with strangers unprepared
No Cash Needed
No carrying thousands in cash to meet strangers. Secure digital payment through Stripe.
Verified Sellers
Seller identity verification is optional for listing. Sellers who accept online payments must complete Stripe onboarding; qualifying identity checks earn an ID Verified badge.
Time to Inspect
7 full days to properly inspect without pressure. Bring a mechanic, test tow it - take your time.
Serious Buyers
Sellers know you have funds ready. No tire-kickers or time-wasters - just serious buyers.
Simple, Transparent Pricing
Small transaction fee only if you choose to use Inspection Hold
For Buyers (If Using Plan)
Examples:
$500 hold = $12.50 fee
$1,000 hold = $25 fee
$5,000 hold = $75 fee
For Sellers
Standard Stripe fees apply when you capture payment (same as any credit card transaction). Payment goes directly to your bank.
Tax Clarification
Selling your personal trailer for less than you paid? Generally not taxable income. Tax applies only to gains, not total received. Stripe is just the payment method.
Don't want to use Inspection Hold?
No problem! List for 100% free, arrange payment directly with buyers. Zero fees, zero obligation. Inspection Hold is completely optional.
Combined with VIN verification and identity verification, Howdy helps create safer, more trustworthy trailer transactions — whether or not you use payment protection.
Built-In Safety Features
ID Verification
All sellers are verified through Stripe Identity. Buyers are verified when placing holds. Identity checks help establish identity but do not establish trustworthiness or guarantee transaction safety.
Secure Processing
Powered by Stripe, the same payment platform used by Amazon, Google, and millions of businesses worldwide.
Documentation
View maintenance history, seller reviews, and VIN-verified listing data before committing. Make informed decisions.
Common Questions
Your Trailer, Your Terms
Ready to Write Your
Success Story?
Join hundreds of trailer owners who've turned idle equipment into consistent income. List once, earn year-round.