Tractors and yellow iron type equipment (backhoes, excavators, etc...) don't have titles. If you are buying it from a dealer, the dealer will do the necessary lien search to make sure the tractor isn't stolen.

Does heavy machinery have a title?

Heavy equipment doesn't require a title transfer, as other vehicles typically do. ... Typically, the value of stolen heavy equipment across the country reaches $400 million each year. Loaders and tractors are particularly popular with thieves.

How do you prove ownership of heavy equipment?

If you are buying from a private seller, ask the seller to provide the original sales invoice for the equipment and check that the name on the sales invoice matches the seller's name. Another way to check ownership of used equipment is to ask or look for the item's serial number or PIN (Product Identification Number).