RV wholesale shipments are projected to top 549,000 units by the end of 2022, according to the Summer 2022 issue of RV RoadSigns, the quarterly forecast prepared by ITR Economics for RVIA.
The new forecast projects RV shipments to range between 537,800 and 561,900 units, with a most likely year-end total of 549,900 units, an -8.4% decline from the 600,240 shipped in 2021. The projection expects to be the second best year on record.
“Our latest RV shipment forecast shows that inventories at dealer lots have normalized at a slightly faster rate than initially expected, due in part to RV manufacturers and suppliers working to get units built and to dealer lots ahead of the summer travel season,” said RVIA President and CEO Craig Kirby. “RVing remains a popular option for consumers who are looking for the freedom to travel while also controlling their costs. The continued popularity of RVing means we are on track to reach the second-best year for RV shipments, maintaining our industry’s 40-plus years of long-term growth.”
Despite the headwinds of high inflation, rising interest rates, high prices at the pump and waning macroeconomic momentum, the forecast shows income is trending well above the long-term trend, as workers enjoy an advantage in the exceptionally tight labor market, which bodes well for shipments. Income trends, prior savings and low debt-to-income ratios for consumers are all positives as the RV industry heads into the summer months.
RV Industry Association members can view the new issue of RV RoadSigns here.
