Supported by recent interest rate reductions, lower energy costs and early effects of last year’s tax cut, the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) reports that consumer confidence rose sharply in January 2002. RV shipments also improved, rising 10.9% in January, compared to

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the same month one year ago. Although declines in shipments had been lessening throughout the final quarter last year, this was the first monthly increase in shipments since May of 2000.  January wholesale shipments of all RVs were well ahead of many projections and finished at 21,300 units, nearly 30% greater than the previous month.  All vehicle categories participated in the monthly improvement with motorhomes posting the greatest gains.  Reflecting renewed consumer optimism about future economic conditions, the Index of Consumer Sentiment rose to 93 in the January 2002 survey according to the University of Michigan’s survey Research Center. The Index has now regained nearly a third of the loss that occurred during last year’s recession.  “Most consumers expect the economy to improve in the year ahead and expect this improvement to benefit them,” reported Dr. Richard Curtin, director of the survey. “Consumer spending will remain the most resilient part of the next economic recovery. ”Viewing retail sales data in January we can see across the board improvements. Wholesale shipments have begun to move upward in response to improved retail sales of all vehicle categories measured.  

Towable RVs

Shipments of all towable RVs were reported at 16,900 units in January, up 7.6% above this same month last year.  Conventional travel trailers improved 6.6% on shipments of 8, 100 units in January. Fifthwheel travel trailers posted shipments of 4, 600 units, their second highest January ever.  Folding camping trailers were even with last January and truck campers improved 14.3% to 800 units.  

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Total RV Shipments 1990-2002
New - Only Recreation Vehicles