Membership in the RV Industry Association (RVIA) offers companies more than access to exclusive reports and data—it provides direct support from experts in standards, government affairs, research, and marketing who act as an extension of members’ teams.
In the first part of its “Maximizing Your Membership” series, the association outlines how its structure and core programs strengthen the $140 billion RV industry and deliver value to its more than 470 member companies.
RVIA serves as the leading trade voice for more than 470 manufacturers, component suppliers, and aftermarket suppliers who produce 98% of all RVs made in the United States and about 60% of RVs worldwide.
According to a News and Insights report of RVIA on October 27, three main pillars make up the RVIA: Go RVing, the association’s consumer-facing advertising arm; its core programs, including standards, government relations, events, and market data insights; and the RV Technical Institute (RVTI) , the educational arm responsible for technician training and certification. Together, these pillars promote and protect the RV industry and its members.
The “standards team” maintains and contributes to eight industry standards governing traditional and park model RVs. The group’s self-regulation efforts include a professional team of inspectors who ensure compliance with more than 500 safety-related requirements for the construction of RVs and park model RVs.
The team also facilitates a workplace safety committee focused on prioritizing worker safety.
In the government affairs team, it advocates at the state, federal, and international levels to create a favorable business environment for the RV sector. Its work focuses on protecting the industry from burdensome legislation and regulations and supporting efforts that make it easier for consumers to buy, drive, and own RVs.
The research and market data team also provides members with valuable insights into current and emerging trends. Reports available to members include monthly RV and park model RV shipment reports, quarterly shipment forecasts, and annual market profiles.
Other resources, such as the Campground Industry Market Analysis and the RVs Move America Economic Impact Study, help members stay informed about consumer behavior, lending patterns, and the broader outdoor economy.
These insights also include studies on RV owner demographics, travel intentions, aftermarket parts and accessories, and vacation cost comparisons—all designed to help members make informed business decisions based on reliable data.
In addition, the industry public relations team serves as the voice of the RV industry, ensuring consistent and positive messaging across national and local media. Despite challenges such as inflation, tariffs, and higher interest rates, the PR team has helped maintain high levels of positive media coverage.
In the next installment of the Maximizing Your Membership series, the association will outline specific steps members can take to make the most of these opportunities.
For more information about RVIA, visit their website here.