January 2004

The Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) reports that RV shipments to retailers improved 10.9% in November from a year earlier, a strong late-year increase that assures another 300,000 unit shipment year for the RV industry, the fourth in the past five years. November’s total shipments of 22,400 units was the best

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November shipment total in 25 years and year to date have now reached 298,500 units, 2.5% better than this same period last year. Growth in the shipment of conventional travel trailers and type A motorhomes have been largely responsible for this strong showing.

Retail sales show similar patterns with conventional, along with hybrid travel trailers, and motorhome sales doing best. Average wholesale prices have also trended upward this year and total dollar value of shipments seems certain to set new all-time high marks in 2003.

The Index of Consumer Sentiment gained nearly four points in November, up to 93.7 according to the University of Michigan’s Survey Research Center. This is the highest level in eighteen months as general economic conditions have continued to improve throughout the year.

“Consumers reported that a stronger economy had already created more jobs,” reported Dr. Richard Curtin, director of the survey. “Although consumers expect the economy to gain strength, they anticipate a slower and more sustainable rate of GDP growth in 2004.”

Towable RVs

Shipments of all towable RVs were up 13.3% in November, totaling 17,900 units. Year to date, shipments were up 3% through November as totals climbed to 242,100 units. Conventional travel trailers (including hybrid trailers) gained 28.9% to 9,800 units in November and are 13.3% ahead year to date to lead all RV shipment gains.

Motorhomes

Sales gains in type A and type C motorhomes pushed wholesale shipment totals 2.3% above November last year with all motorhome shipments finishing at 4,500 units. Year to date, type A motorhomes have improved 3% over this same period last year while type C motorhomes were even with a year earlier totals.

Conversion Vehicles

Conversion vehicle totals weakened in November, slipping 35.2% below this same month last year. Shipments of 2,600 van conversions were reported by manufacturers in our November survey, off 23,5% from this same month one year ago and down 17.5% for the eleven months this year. Pickup truck conversions were off 42.9% for the month but are off just 7.5% year to date. Sport Utility conversions sank 83.3% in November dropping year-to-date totals to 3,500 units and 22.2% behind last year.

Truck Campers

Truck Campers shipped to retailers in November totaled 360..

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Total RV Shipments 1990-2003
New - Only Recreation Vehicles