The Recreation Vehicle Industry Association reports that deliveries to retailers totaled 37,000 units in September, down slightly from last month; but up 2.8% from this same month one year ago. Seasonally adjusted, shipments in September were at 448,900 units, slightly better than last month. Year to date, totals have climbed to 367,000 units, off just 0.5% compared to the first nine months of 1995.

The Index of Consumer Sentiment was measured at 94.7 in the September survey, insignificantly below last month's reading, according to the University of Michigan's Survey Research Center. The Index has remained at or near record levels for much of the past three years and is currently at the second highest month in over a year.

"Both near and long-term prospects for the national economy were judged more favorably this month," reported Dr. Richard Curtin, director of the survey. "Consumers expect interest rate increases over the next twelve months, but they expect small increases which should not interfere with currently very favorable buying plans for vehicles."

Retail sales of travel trailers, fifth-wheel trailers and type A motorhomes have continued to outperform last-year results. The improvements in final sales have led increases in wholesale shipments all year indicating an overall reduction in dealer inventory levels.

Towable RVs
All towable RV shipments of 14,500 units were reported in September, off less than 1% from this same period last year. Year to date, all towable RV shipments are now at 152,500 units, down just 1.9% from the first nine months last year.

Fifth-wheel travel trailers continue to outperform all other vehicles in this category with deliveries in September topping 4,100 units, up 5.1% over this month last year. Travel trailers also improved on last year's total with shipments to retailers of 5,900 units, up 1.7%. Folding camping trailers and truck campers didn't fare as well, still they remain within striking distance of last year's final totals.

Motorhomes
All motorhome deliveries improved to 4,400 units, up 12.8% over last month and up 10% over this same month last year. Type A and type B motorhomes increased by 24% and 33% respectively in the September, 1966 survey of manufacturers.

Year-to-date shipments improved to 41,900 units, up 2.4% over the first three quarters last year. Type A motorhomes continued to outshine all other types with growth of 6% so far this year.

Conversion Vehicles
On the strength of van conversions and sport utility vehicles, all conversion vehicle shipments were up 4% this month to 18,100 units. Year-to-date totals for all conversion vehicles are now at 173,500 units, identical to the September reading last year.

Van conversions, which struggled most all year, have now increased shipments over last year for the past four months. This is the reverse of shipment patterns for pickup trucks which began the year in high gear but since May have slowed.
Source: RVIA