RV Sales and Shipments: 2024 Report and What to Expect in 2025

RV show with text "RV Sales Report: December 2024"

Your Guide to the Latest RV Sales and Shipment Trends

What’s happening in the RV market? Are sales and shipments bouncing back — or is the industry still feeling the post-pandemic pinch?

If you’ve been wondering whether now’s the right time to buy or sell an RV—or what’s driving all those shipment and sales numbers—you’ve come to the right place.

At Bish’s RV, we’re all about helping you make smart RV decisions, whether you’re buying, selling, or just staying in the know.

With a little help from our good friend, Josh the RV Nerd, we keep our finger on the pulse of the RV industry. We’re here to share our expertise, so you can make confident decisions every step of the way

In this article, we’ll dive into the latest RV sales and shipment data, highlight key trends in the market, and take a peek at what’s in store for 2025 — so you’ll have a solid grasp of where the RV market stands today and what to expect in the near future.

Watch Josh the RV Nerd‘s RV Industry Update for all the latest RV News!

The End of the Year is when most dealers offer great deals. Check them Out.

2024 RV Sales vs. Shipments: What’s Really Happening?

At first glance, it might seem like the RV industry is cruising along, with shipments increasing in some key categories. But when you dig deeper, the story gets more complicated.

While manufacturers are shipping more units compared to last year, actual sales are trending down—creating a noticeable gap between production and demand.

What’s driving this disconnect? Let’s break it down by shipments and sales to see what’s really happening.

RV Shipments

bar graph showing 2023 Shipments vs 2024 shipments

When it comes to shipments, travel trailers are leading the pack, propping up the industry with a strong 17.4% increase compared to last year.

Fifth wheels are also seeing some modest gains, up 2.1%. However, other segments of the RV market are struggling to keep pace:

Travel Trailers: Up 17.4%.
Fifth Wheels: Up 2.1%.
Pop-Up Campers: Down 18%.
Truck Campers: Down 12%.
Motorhomes:
- Class A: Down 32%.
- Class B (Camper Vans): Down 32%.
- Class C: Down 17%.

Table showing 2023 Shipments vs 2024 shipments — **National RV Sales Data takes 2 months to compile. The latest RV Sales Data is current up to October.**

These shipment trends reflect shifting consumer preferences. Lightweight, towable units like travel trailers and affordable fifth wheels are in demand, while more expensive and motorized RVs—especially diesel-driven models—are seeing declines.

Manufacturers are focusing production where demand remains strongest, but the market still faces challenges.

Thinking of Selling or Trading your RV?
Find out what it’s worth!

RV Sales

While shipments are up in certain categories, sales are telling a very different story. Year-to-date sales for 2024 are down 10.2% compared to the same period in 2023. Here’s the breakdown:

bar graph showing 2023 sales vs 2024 sales

2023 Sales (YTD): 319,588 units.
2024 Sales (YTD): 289,792 units.

RV Sales in 2024 have dropped 10.2% over the past year.

Monthly sales figures echo this decline, with the most recent numbers showing a 10% year-over-year drop.

What’s behind the slowdown in sales?

A mix of economic pressures and consumer uncertainty. High-interest rates are making financing big-ticket purchases more expensive, while the election year has added a layer of hesitation as many buyers wait to see how the economy unfolds.

Additionally, the rising costs of fuel and inflation have tightened many discretionary budgets.

line graph showing gas prices 2021 - 2024

This gap between shipments and sales brings to light a big obstacle for the RV industry: balancing production with actual demand.

While some segments are thriving, others are struggling to attract buyers, creating challenges for dealers and manufacturers.

What’s Driving the RV Market?

The RV market in 2024 is being shaped by a perfect storm of economic, political, and consumer factors.

While interest in RV travel remains strong, external pressures are influencing buying behaviors, creating challenges for dealers and manufacturers alike.

Rising Interest Rates: Higher interest rates have made financing big-ticket purchases like RVs more expensive. This has created hesitation for buyers who might have been on the fence, particularly in motorized and luxury RV segments.
Election-Year Hesitation: Historically, election years tend to make consumers cautious. Many hold back on large discretionary purchases, waiting to see how the political landscape will affect the economy. This year is no different, with many buyers delaying decisions until 2025.
Shifting Consumer Preferences: As inflation continues to stretch household budgets, affordable and lightweight RVs like travel trailers are thriving, while more expensive motorized RVs face dwindling demand.

These factors contribute to the growing disconnect between shipments and sales.

While manufacturers ramp up production to meet demand in thriving segments, slow sales in others have created a mismatch, leaving some inventory sitting on lots longer than expected.

Pro Dealer Tip: Don’t be fooled by Hidden Fees.
Learn how to Avoid being scammed by shady RV Dealers!

How will RV Sales be in 2025?

RV Show- RVs lined up — **RV Show Season kicks off in January. Shows are a great way to see RVs up close and to get great deals!**

As we look ahead to 2025, industry experts are cautiously optimistic about a potential rebound in RV sales.

Here’s what might shape the market in the coming year:

Post-Election Recovery: Historically, consumer spending tends to normalize after elections, as uncertainty fades. The RV Industry Association (RVIA) and RV Dealers Association (RVDA) predict a sales boost as buyers return to the market with greater confidence.
Easing Interest Rates: While not guaranteed, there’s speculation that interest rates may decline slightly in 2025, making financing RV purchases more accessible and attractive to consumers.
Legislative Challenges: However, looming regulations, such as the diesel ban in certain states, could disrupt the motorhome market. These changes might lead to deals on diesel-powered units in the short term but could also permanently shift consumer demand toward other categories.
Affordability Trends: The travel trailer and budget-friendly fifth-wheel segments are likely to remain strong, continuing to cater to cost-conscious buyers.

2025 holds the potential for a modest recovery, but much will depend on how economic and regulatory factors evolve in the months ahead.

Certain times of the year are better than others when buying an RV.
Find out the best times of year to buy an RV in 2025.

Ready to Hit the Road with Confidence?

Bish's RV in Meridian, Idaho — **Bish’s RV is your go-to source for RV News and Updates!**

Now that you know the health of the RV industry, you’re ready to make informed decisions about buying, selling, or simply understanding the market better.

At Bish’s RV, we’re here to be your trusted partner in the RV world. Whether you’re browsing for your next RV, curious about your current RV’s value, or just staying informed, our team is always happy to answer your questions and help you every step of the way.

Your Next Steps

👉 Search Our Inventory
Explore our wide selection of RVs to find the perfect fit for your next adventure.

👉 Talk to an Outfitter
Connect with one of our RV experts for personalized advice and recommendations.

FAQs

1. Why are RV shipments up when sales are down?
Shipments represent what manufacturers produce, not what consumers are buying. Higher shipments, especially in travel trailers, reflect strong production trends, but economic challenges like high-interest rates are holding back sales.

2. What RV types are performing best in the current market?
Travel trailers and budget-friendly fifth wheels are driving the market, thanks to their affordability. Conversely, motorhomes are seeing a drop in demand due to their higher price points and looming diesel regulations.

3. Should I wait until 2025 to buy an RV?
If you’re sensitive to financing costs, waiting might make sense as interest rates could decline in 2025. That said, there could be excellent deals available now, especially on diesel motorhomes facing upcoming regulation changes.

4. How can I stay updated on RV industry news?
Follow Bish’s RV blog to get the latest market updates, buying tips, and trends delivered straight to your inbox!