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The results of RVIA’s January 2010 survey of manufacturers reports that 15,800 new RVs were shipped from manufacturers to dealers in January, more than twice the total of January 2009 shipments. Both towable and motorhome categories grew, with all categories at the same or substantially above their January totals last year. Importantly, this increase marked the sixth consecutive month of improvement for RV shipments as dealer orders more closely reflected retail sales during the month.

Wholesale shipments of all towable RVs were reported at 14,300 units in January, up 15 percent from December 2009 and up 116 percent over the January 2009 number. Shipments of conventional travel trailers grew from 4,300 units in January 2009 to 9,500 units this January, a 120 percent increase. Fifth wheels climbed 150 percent over the previous year’s number to 3,500 units shipped, the largest percentage increase in the towables group. Folding camping trailers climbed 37 percent over last year; while shipments of truck campers doubled.

Motorhome shipments were reported at 1,500 units this January, up 114 percent over one year ago. Shipments of Type A motorhomes grew by 125 percent to 900 units. Type C motorhomes grew 150 percent over last year, with a total of 500 units shipped. Only Type B motorhomes did not grow over last year, with the same number of units (100) shipped this January as last.

“Evidence continues to mount that 2010 will be a year of recovery for the RV industry,” said RVIA President Richard Coon. “Although we still have a long way to go, consistently improving shipment numbers are a very positive sign for our industry. And, as the RV industry has historically been a leading indicator of recessions and recoveries, I hope that good news for the RV industry is also an encouraging sign for the nation’s economy as a whole."

For Details see Shipments