A Guide to RV Manufacturers

More than 150 RV manufacturers produce rigs to fit your every desire.

Recreational vehicles (RVs) usually fall into two categories: motorized and towable. Motorized RVs include everything from million-dollar custom diesel pushers to conversion vans while towable RVs are trailers.

RV manufacturers are fairly specialized, so you need to know what type of RV you want before you start your search.

1. Class A RVs, the crème de la crème of species, are on a specially designed RV chassis, range anywhere from 26 to 45 feet long and offer a great deal of luxury and convenience.

2. Class B RVs, or conversion vans, are on a standard van body and offer basic amenities.

3. Class C mini motor homes are on a truck chassis with an attached cab. Class Cs drive more like a car, but with lengths up to 30 feet, and offer many of the same amenities as the higher class. Four-wheel drive is a common option on these rigs.

4. Trailers are designed to be towed behind a passenger vehicle and include conventional travel, fifth-wheel, camping and specialty trailers, and truck campers.

Buy factory direct from the RV manufacturer

Buying your new RV directly from the RV manufacturer ensures an unprecedented level of knowledge and expertise and usually a large cash savings! Dealing directly with RV manufacturers is also a good option for purchasing custom recreational vehicles. RV shows are a great way to explore the RVs and still deal directly with the manufacturers.
Try: 

The RV Buyer’s Guide lists recreational vehicle manufacturers online divided by Class.  Go RVing maintains a complete list of RV shows in every region of the country.

Kick the tires and lie in the beds at your local RV dealer

RV Dealers carry a wide variety of motor home manufacturers and RV trailer manufacturers. You can compare makes, models and amenities to make a comfortable, informed decision. Just like any vehicle, be aware of dealer mark-up and be prepared to negotiate for the best price.
Try: 

With nearly 3,000 RV dealers in the U.S., go online to find the dealers nearest you. While online, check out RV comparisons before you buy.

Slash prices with RV wholesalers

RV wholesalers were the traditional link between the manufacturers and the dealers. Now, with the freedom of the Internet, customers can go to wholesalers direct and cash in on the wholesalers buying power; think Costco for motor homes and trailers. Watch out, though, while some buyers are singing praise, others are left with damaged goods and less than attentive customer service. Also, most warranty work will need to be contracted through a local business. Still, for several thousands of dollars in savings, many buyers are willing to take the risk.
Try: 

Find RV wholesalers online at RV Wholesalers. Check out what RV owners and enthusiasts have to say about their experiences on the RV.net forums.

Copyright © 2011 Business.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.