Dan Cartwright has over 12 years of experience in the caravan and motorhome industry. He is a judge for a number of prestigious leisure vehicle awards and regularly heads off in his motorhome with his family. Every week, Dan shares his insights with the community. Here’s what he has to say this week.
Many manufacturers currently have a low supply of motorhomes and campervans. Having recently been at the CAMC shows and speaking with lots of different manufacturers, I actually feel sympathy for them. More importantly, though, does this shortage affect people looking to purchase a new motorhome and are there any changes to the way you should buy?
Understanding the issue
Some motorhome manufacturers have stopped taking forward orders now due to cab shortages. Certain makers of base vehicles have slightly higher supplies, although this could change in the next three to six months, to the benefit or detriment of each of them.
Additionally, this makes it very hard for manufacturers to price their vehicles appropriately. If they’re looking to take orders for motorhomes that won’t be built for 18 months, they haven’t got a clue what the costs will be, especially taking into account rapid inflation and rising energy prices. Consequently, some have taken the decision to prevent their waiting lists from filling up.
Most manufacturers have already increased prices. However, having spoken to them, most are making the same amount of profit on vehicles as before – the higher costs are a direct result of the additional risk and prices of parts.
Choosing a motorhome or campervan
For the very first time at the CAMC shows, I saw so many people asking the same question: “How long is the waiting list?”
I appreciate that people are excited and want their motorhome of choice straight away, but our consistent advice is that you do your own research and make sure you purchase the leisure vehicle that’s right for you. Don’t limit yourself to those that are available right now – it’s a big commitment.
This might mean waiting and looking at similar layouts from other manufacturers, but it’s worth it. Leisure vehicles are inherently a balance of compromise and if you have one that works for you, that’s the most important thing when it comes to enjoying your holidays.
Have patience
Yes, it’s going to be frustrating to wait, especially as you may receive very little clarity from the manufacturer during this period. It’s not always their fault – they estimate production times based on so many external variables.
Assessing what the wait time is realistically going to be is a more difficult task and some less reputable retailers are giving false indications. Remember, you can always contact manufacturers directly through social media channels or on the phone. If you’re seriously thinking about buying, this might be a better option in terms of getting a more accurate estimate.
Think carefully about part exchange
If you’re a current motorhome or campervan owner, dealers will often suggest your new vehicle will be ready soon and that it’s a great opportunity to part exchange your old one. This has left lots of people with a period of up to 12 months without a leisure vehicle. So, enjoy what you have while you have it.
Second-hand vehicles are more expensive
We’ve previously written about the difference between forecourt prices and what you could get selling privately. Now is the best time we’ve seen for the latter. You might not be able to get quite as much as a dealership, considering all of their services, but you’ll achieve a better price than a retailer would offer you for a trade-in. Given the wait time on your next leisure vehicle, this gives you the opportunity to properly prepare and service your motorhome and advertise it privately for the best value.
I think the high demand for leisure vehicles is a testament to how much motorhomes and campervans are becoming mainstream holiday options in the UK. This is fantastic to see, but think carefully about how and when you purchase. Be patient and don’t compromise on that all-important layout that’s right for your family.
Photo credit: Pixabay / Pexels
