Still, through September year-to-date totals were 205,000 units, down 16.2% from this same period last year. Shipments of towables have done better than that while motorhomes have done worse.

Importantly, retail sales of all RVs reported have fared better than wholesale shipments, indicating dealer inventories continue to be reduced. Final sales were ahead of wholesale shipments in each vehicle category measured.

The Index of Consumer Sentiment, as measured by the University of Michigan's Survey Research Center plunged in the September survey of consumers, falling nearly 10 points to 81.8. Although the Index was headed lower due to weakening economic conditions, the September 11 terrorist attacks pushed confidence levels ever lower.

Speaking about the level of consumer confidence, the director of the survey, Dr. Richard Curtin said, "Overall, the data indicate that a recession is no longer in doubt, the only issue is how long the downturn will last. Concerns about domestic safety as well as casualties abroad will strongly influence consumer's sense of economic security in the months ahead."

Towable RVs

Shipments to retailers of all towable RVs were off just 6.7% in September, compared to the same month one year ago. A total of 16,700 units were delivered to retailers in September with conventional travel trailers showing positive improvements for the second month in a row. While fifth-wheel trailers and folding camping trailers were off some, truck campers posted the same numbers as September last year.

Through the first nine months this year, all towable RVs of 167,200 units have been shipped to retailers, off 14.6% compared to this same period last year. Conventional travel trailers were off the least while folding camping trailers were down the most.

Motorhomes

All motorhomes shipments declined 14% this month, finishing at 4,300 units. Type C motorhomes declined just 8.3% while type A motorhomes were off 14.3%. Type A gasoline chassis motorhomes declined the most, off 18% from this same month last year while diesel chassis declined just 6%. Type B van campers have remained down from last year and through September are at 2,000 units, off 28.6% from this same period last year.

Conversion Vehicles

Sharp declines in conversion vehicle shipments appear as a direct result of lower dealer inventory practices. September's decline followed several months of improving shipment totals, with pickup truck conversions hit hardest. Totals this month of just 3,600 units were off 60.4% compared to this same month one year ago and year to date, are off 46.9% on shipments of 50,400 units.