Results for the RV Industry Association’s September 2023 survey of manufacturers found that total RV shipments ended the month with 24,700 units, a decrease of (-12.9%) compared to the 28,363 units shipped in September 2022. To date, RV shipments are down (-42.8%) with 238,121 units. Shipment numbers are one of many data that developers can use to determine increasing need for RV and boat storage facilities.
It is also important to note that shipment numbers grew to record levels over the last couple of years. Speculation is that the COVID-19 lockdown compelled more and more people to explore the outdoors(at a safe distance from others), driving an interest in RV and boat adventures. The numbers have dipped during 2023 in comparison to the last two years, but they are still higher than they were pre–pandemic, indicating that rec-vehicle sales are still trending upward. Likewise, the need for RV and boat storage facilities has grown exponentially and shows little signs of slowing, especially because supply of storage is far below the demand.
“With milder weather, spectacular fall landscapes, and family-friendly activities at campgrounds, 38 million Americans are choosing RVing as their vacation of choice this fall,” said RV Industry Association President & CEO Craig Kirby. “RV manufacturers and suppliers continue to innovate and release new features and products for today’s RVers who are looking to spend time with friends and family while also enjoying the many physical and mental health benefits of living an active outdoor lifestyle.”
Towable RVs, led by conventional travel trailers, ended the month down (-7.6%) from last September with 21,385 shipments. Motorhomes finished the month down (-36.6%) compared to the same month last year with 3,315 units.
Park Model RVs finished September down (-13.7%) compared to the same month last year, with 334 wholesale shipments.
Click here to view the Shipment Report in PDF format.
