Latest survey: Revenues are up, towables are popular

CDL Exemption Could Help Ease Driver Shortage page 14

Also:Get the facts with “Quick Takes,”a new feature with data dealerscan use page 9

Society for Certified RVProfessionals recognizes newlycertified employees page 24

iLatest survey: Revenues are up,towables are popular

JULY 2015

page 10

July 2015 RVET_Layout 1 6/30/15 2:05 PM

Acquisition ofRental Fleet

Units

FindingInsuranceProviders

FindingFinanceSources

StaffTraining

15%

28%

30%

28%

29 Mike Molino RV LearningCenter contributors

30 RVDA endorsed products31 RV industry’s training calendar31 Advertisers index

C O N T E N T S July 2015

9 Quick TakesThis new monthly feature will take alook at statistics of interest to RVdealers. July’s topic: Camping data.

10 RV Rental Revenue Up,Fleet Size StableThe majority of dealers with RV rentaloperations enjoyed double-digitincreases in their rental revenue last year,according to a survey from theRecreation Vehicle Rental Association.

12 Thinking of Starting an RVRental Business? Here’s OneSuccessful Dealer’s AdviceThere’s more than one business modelfor setting up a rental operation; here’show one longtime rental dealerstructures his.

14 RV Industry Gets TemporaryExemption from CommercialDriver’s License RequirementMost RV delivery drivers won’t need aCDL under a two-year exemptiongranted by federal regulators. Theexemption should help alleviate the kindof delivery delays that frustrated dealerslast spring.

20 RVDA Members in the NewsDealers have been busy this spring withgrand openings and Great OutdoorsMonth activities.

24 Certifiably ProfessionalWith the RV market back in high gear,more dealers are investing in employeetraining to ensure that their customershave the best possible experience. Findout who’s been recently certified orrecertified.

6 Looking ahead 7 Chairman’s report 8 Officers, directors, and

delegates

I N EVERY I S SUE :

5JULY 2015

910

12

20

24

14


6 RV EXECUTIVE TODAY

One of the most active volunteercommittees within RVDA is the

Convention/Expo Committee chairedby Ron Shepherd of Camperland ofOklahoma in Tulsa. Ron heads adiverse team of dealers and associatemembers who spend a lot of time withstaff putting together the entire conven-tion/expo program. It also includesRVDA of Canada members and ourpartners in organizing the event.

The way RV dealers do businesstoday is much different than it was 10years ago, and so is the convention/expoeducational workshop selection process.RV Learning Center Chief Karin VanDuyse works closely with Ron and thecommittee to seek out the best speakerson management, sales, fixed operations,rental, and marketing.

RVDA issues a call for workshopproposals early in the year. The committeemembers review and discuss specific topicsof interest and then select the best presen-ters to deliver the message.

In making their decisions, committeemembers have much more informationavailable than they did just a few yearsago, including quick access to actualpresentations through online video. Moreinformation means more work.Committee members spend hours siftingthrough websites and videos to bring youthe best speakers.

Some of the results of all this prepara-tion are outlined for you in this magazineon pages 16-17. There’s also more tocome. This year, the committee is devel-oping a revamped F&I track to helpdealers improve profitability and compli-ance in this important department.

The expo floor will also have more tosee this year. In addition to the well-known RV companies that will have a bigpresence at the convention this year, there

are 18 new exhibitors as this edition of RVExecutive Today goes to press.

Vice President for AdministrationRonnie Hepp and Marketing ManagerJulie Newhouse work with our corporatepartners, sponsors, and exhibitors on allthe details that go into making the expo agreat place to do business and network.

The key to the event’s success isparticipation – from dealers who invest intheir people and attend and from ourcorporate partners (see page 18), sponsors,and exhibitors, who demonstrate theircommitment to continuing educationthrough their financial support of theconvention.

Visit www.rvda.org/convention toregister and for regular updates. You canalso get convention updates on LinkedIn,Twitter, and Facebook, and later thissummer, RVDA will update the popularConvention/Expo Guidebook mobile app.

Stay tuned as the conventionapproaches – I look forward to seeing youin Las Vegas in November!

LOOKIN

GAHEAD

President:Phil Ingrassia, CAE

Vice President forAdministration:Ronnie Hepp, CAE

Editor:Mary Anne Shreve

Graphic Designer:Ginny Walker

RV EXECUTIVE TODAY

RV Executive Today is published monthly by theRecreation Vehicle Dealers Association ofAmerica at 3930 University Drive, Fairfax, VA22030-2515. Periodicals postage paid at Fairfax,VA 22030 USPS No. 062450. Issued monthly toall RVDA members as a membership benefit paidfor by their dues.

Postmaster please send address changes to:RV Executive Today, 3930 University Drive,Fairfax, VA 22030-2515 The annual subscriptionrate of $30 is a part of membership dues.

Editorial/Business Office:3930 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030-2515Phone (703) 591-7130 FAX (703) 359-0152

RV Executive Today (ISSN #1088-873X)Volume 19, Issue 7

For advertising information contact:Julie Newhouse, marketing manager(703) 591-7130 x 103

RVDA STAFFChuck BoydDealer Services Manager

Hank FortuneDirector of Finance

Jeff KurowskiDirector of Industry Relations

Julie Anna NewhouseMarketing Manager

Brett Richardson, Esq., CAEDirector of Legal and RegulatoryAffairs

Julianne RyderMarketing Communications Specialist

Terri WhitesideAccounting Clerk

MIKE MOLINO RV LEARNING CENTER STAFFKarin Van DuyseChief

Liz FlemingEducation Coordinator

Tony YermanRV Service Consultant–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––Isabel McGrathTechnician Certification Registrar

Convention/ExpoPlanning Is a Team EffortBy Phil Ingrassia, CAE, president

“The key to the event’ssuccess is participation –from dealers who invest intheir people and attend, toour corporate partners,sponsors, and exhibitors,who demonstrate theircommitment to continuingeducation through theirfinancial support of theconvention.


Now that we are well into the summer selling season, it isclear the RV business is headed for a banner year as the

industry sets 30-year records for travel trailer and fifth-wheeldeliveries in 2015.

The latest forecast from RVIA estimates manufacturerswill ship 380,000 units in 2015, a 6.5 percent increase fromthe 356,735 shipped last year. The good news doesn’t stopthere. RV shipments are projected to reach 394,500 units in2016, just topping the 390,362 produced in 2006.

The growth in unit volume continues to be fueled bytowables. While motorhome shipments have certainlyimproved and are projected to reach just over 49,000 units in2016, that’s still a far cry from the most recent high-watermark of 70,800 in 2004. In any event, all indications are thatbusiness should remain strong for the foreseeable future.

We are fresh from a series of industry events inWashington, DC, which included meetings of the RVDABoard of Directors meeting, the Go RVing Coalition, and thetechnician certification board. As the RVDA board workswith our industry partners, we always keep in mind ourguiding principle to develop programs that make dealersbetter and stronger.

Go RVingGo RVing continues to help fuel the resurgence of our

industry with a $15 million 2015 media budget that’s increas-ingly focused on digital media. Visits to the Go RVinggateway consumer site were up more than 10 percent year-over-year at the end of the first quarter.

Go RVing’s social media campaign is exploding, withmore than 620,000 Facebook users following the site – andthat number grows every day. As of early June, there weremore than 8,900 Go RVing consumer leads in the system.Dealers participating in the optional Go RVing Dealerprogram can access leads in their area (see page 27). A bigtakeaway from the Go RVing meeting is that the program isusing all traditional and developing media platforms todevelop interest in RVing.

RVDA Board of DirectorsAs we’ve communicated to you over the past several

weeks, RVDA continues its efforts to require the ConsumerFinancial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to be more transparent.Along with allies at NADA and RVIA, we are working to get

more co-sponsors on a bill (HR 1737) that would rescind theagency’s guidance on vehicle lending that threatens thecurrent model of dealer-assisted financing.

While Congress is in recess and many representatives areback in their home districts, let them know how importantthis issue is to your dealership. The talking points are simple:Don’t let the CFPB make financing a vehicle less competitiveor more of a hassle. The auto and RV industries are drivingeconomic recovery, and it doesn’t make sense for the Feds tomake vehicle financing less accessible for our customers.

We are also taking steps to improve our member benefitsprograms available through the RV Assistance Corporation(RVAC). (See page 30 for a list of current programs). Thebudget the board of directors approved includes funding for aposition to better communicate these benefits to you anddevelop additional programs to help your business.

RVDA volunteer leaders and staff are working on yourbehalf to improve the business environment in which we alloperate. I urge you to take advantage of all the opportunitiesavailable to make the most of today’s strong selling environ-ment.

Thanks for your support.

Good Business IndicatorsAbound So Far in 2015By John McCluskey, chairman

“The latest forecast from RVIAestimates manufacturers will ship380,000 units in 2015, a 6.5 percentincrease from the 356,735 shipped lastyear. The good news doesn’t stopthere. RV shipments are projected toreach 394,500 units in 2016, justtopping the 390,362 produced in 2006.”

CHAIR

MAN’S

REPORT

7JULY 2015



ChairmanJohn McCluskeyFlorida Outdoors RVCenterStuart, FL(772) [email protected]

1st Vice ChairmanBrian WilkinsWilkins R.V. Inc.Bath, NY(607) [email protected]

2nd Vice ChairmanDarrel FriesenAll Seasons RV CenterYuba City, CA(530) [email protected]

TreasurerTim WeggeBurlington RV SuperstoreSturtevant, WI(262) [email protected]

SecretaryMike ReganCrestview RV CenterBuda, TX(512) [email protected]

Past ChairmanJeff HirschCampers Inn of KingstonKingston, NH(603) [email protected]

DirectorRod RuppelGood Life RVWebster City, IA(515) [email protected]

DirectorSherry ShieldsPan Pacific RV Centers Inc.French Camp, CA(209) [email protected]

DirectorRon ShepherdCamperland of Oklahoma,LLCTulsa, OK(918) [email protected]

DirectorGlenn ThomasBill Thomas CamperSales Inc.Wentzville, MO(636) [email protected]

RVRA RepresentativeScott KrenekKrenek RV CenterColoma, MI(269) [email protected]

RVAC ChairmanTom StinnettTom Stinnett Derby CityRVClarksville, IN(812) [email protected]

RV Learning CenterChairmanJeff PastoreHartville RV CenterHartville, OH(330) [email protected]

DELEGATESAlabamaRod WagnerMadison RV SupercenterMadison, AL(256) [email protected]

AlaskaKevin BrownArctic RV & InteriorTopperFairbanks, AK(907) [email protected]

ArizonaDevin MurphyFreedom RV Inc.Tucson, AZ(520) [email protected]

ArkansasMichael MoixMoix RV SupercenterConway, AR(501) [email protected]

CaliforniaTroy PadgettAll Valley RV CenterActon, CA(661) [email protected]

CaliforniaJoey ShieldsPan Pacific RV Centers Inc.French Camp, CA(209) [email protected]

ColoradoTim BilesPikes Peak TravelandColorado Springs, CO(719) [email protected]

ConnecticutChris AndroHemlock Hill RV SalesInc.Milldale, CT(860) [email protected]

DelawareRyan HorseyParkview RV CenterSmyrna, DE(302) [email protected]

FloridaRob RothenhauslerOcean Grove RVSupercenterSt. Augustine, FL(904) [email protected]

GeorgiaDoc AllenC.S.R.A. Camperland Inc.Martinez, GA(706) [email protected]

IdahoTyler NelsonNelson’s RVs Inc.Boise, ID(208) [email protected]

IllinoisRichard FlowersLarry’s Trailer Sales Inc.Zeigler, IL(618) [email protected]

IndianaNathan HartWalnut Ridge FamilyTrailer SalesNew Castle, IN(765) [email protected]

IowaJeremy KetelsenKetelsen RV Inc.Hiawatha, IA(319) [email protected]

KansasBill HawleyHawley Brothers Inc.Dodge City, KS(620) [email protected]

KentuckyNeVelle SkaggsSkaggs RV CountryElizabethtown, KY(270) [email protected]

LouisianaJim HicksSouthern RV SuperCenter Inc.Bossier City, LA(318) [email protected]

MaineLinda MailhotSeacoast RVSaco, ME(207) [email protected]

MarylandGreg MerkelLeo’s Vacation Center Inc.Gambrills, MD(410) [email protected]

MassachusettsBrian SullivanCampers Inn of RaynhamRaynham, MA(508) [email protected]

MichiganChad NeffAmerican RV Sales &Service Inc.Grand Rapids, MI(616) [email protected]

MinnesotaWill JarnotPleasureLand RV CenterSt. Cloud, MN(320) [email protected]

MississippiStephen (Snuffy) SmithCountry Creek RV CenterHattiesburg, MS(601) [email protected]

MissouriTed EvansMid America RV Inc.Carthage, MO(417) [email protected]

MontanaRon PiercePierce RV SupercenterBillings, MT(406) [email protected]

NebraskaTony StaabRich & Sons Camper SalesGrand Island, NE(308) [email protected]

NevadaBeau DurkeeCarson City RV SalesCarson City, NV(775) [email protected]

New HampshireScott SilvaCold Springs RVCorporationWeare, NH(603) [email protected]

New JerseyBrad ScottScott Motor HomeSales Inc.Lakewood, NJ(732) [email protected]

New MexicoRick SchollRocky Mountain RV WorldAlbuquerque, NM(505) [email protected]

New YorkJim ColtonColton RVN Tonawanda, NY(716) [email protected]

North CarolinaSteve PlemmonsBill Plemmons RV WorldRural Hall, NC(336) [email protected]

OhioDean TennisonSpecialty RV SalesLancaster, OH(740) [email protected]

OklahomaRon ShepherdCamperland of Oklahoma,LLCTulsa, OK(918) [email protected]

OregonLisa LarkinGib’s RV SuperstoreCoos Bay, OR(541) [email protected]

PennsylvaniaGreg StarrStarr’s Trailer SalesBrockway, PA(814) [email protected]

Rhode IslandLinda TarroArlington RV SuperCenter Inc.East Greenwich, RI(401) [email protected]

South CarolinaGloria MorganThe Trail CenterNorth Charleston, SC(843) [email protected]

South DakotaLyle SchaapSchaap’s RV TravelandSioux Falls, SD(605) [email protected]

TennesseeRoger SellersTennessee RV Sales &Service, LLCKnoxville, TN(865) [email protected]

TexasMark ClaySouthern RV SupercenterTyler, TX(903) [email protected]

UtahJared JensenSierra RV CorpSunset, UT(801) [email protected]

VermontScott BordenPete’s RV CenterSouth Burlington, VT(802) [email protected]

VirginiaLindsey ReinesReines RV Center Inc.Manassas, VA(703) [email protected]

WashingtonRon LittleRV’s Northwest Inc.Spokane Valley, WA(509) [email protected]

West VirginiaLynn ButlerSetzer’s World ofCamping Inc.Huntington, WV(304) [email protected]

WisconsinMick FerkeyGreeneway Inc.Wisconsin Rapids, WI(715) [email protected]

WyomingSonny RoneSonny’s RV Sales Inc.Evansville, WY(307) [email protected]

VACANTHawaiiNorth Dakota

AT-LARGEBob BeenAffinity RV Service Sales& RentalsPrescott, AZ(928) [email protected]

Randy CoyDean’s RV SuperstoreTulsa, OK(918) [email protected]

David HayesHayes RV CenterLongview, TX(903) [email protected]

Ben HirschCampers Inn of KingstonKingston, NH(603) [email protected]

Ed LerchLerch RVMilroy, PA(717) [email protected]

Scott LoughheedCrestview RV CenterBuda, TX(512) [email protected]

Mike NobleNoble RV Inc.Owatonna, MN(507) [email protected]

Mike RoneSonny’s RV Sales Inc.Evansville, WY(307) [email protected]

Adam RuppelGood Life RVWebster City, IA(515) [email protected]

Rod RuppelGood Life RVWebster City, IA(515) [email protected]

Earl StoltzfusStoltzfus RV’s & MarineWest Chester, PA(610) [email protected]

Glenn ThomasBill Thomas Camper SalesWentzville, MO(636) [email protected]

Larry Troutt IIITopper’s Camping CenterWaller, TX(800) [email protected]

Bill WhiteUnited RV CenterFort Worth, TX(817) [email protected]

Participating PastChairmenBruce BentzCapital R.V. Center Inc.Bismarck, ND(701) [email protected]

Randy BilesPikes Peak Traveland Inc.Colorado Springs, CO(719) [email protected]

Debbie BrunoforteLittle Dealer, Little PricesMesa, AZ(480) [email protected]

Rex FloydFloyd’s RecreationalVehiclesNorman, OK(405) [email protected]

Crosby ForrestDixie RV SuperstoreNewport News, VA(757) [email protected]

Ernie FriesenAll Seasons RV CenterYuba City, CA(530) [email protected]

Andy HeckAlpin HausAmsterdam, NY(518) [email protected]

Rick HorseyParkview RV CenterSmyrna, DE(302) [email protected]

Tim O’BrienCircle K RVsLapeer, MI(810) [email protected]

Dan PearsonPleasureLand RVCenter Inc.St. Cloud, MN(320) [email protected]

Cammy PiersonCurtis Trailers Inc.Portland, OR(503) [email protected]

Joe RangeRange Vehicle Center Inc.Hesperia, CA(760) [email protected]

Dell SandersJ. D. Sanders Inc.Alachua, FL(386) [email protected]

Marty SheaMadison RV SupercenterMadison, AL(256) [email protected]

Bill ThomasBill Thomas CamperSales Inc.Wentzville, MO(636) [email protected]

Larry TrouttTopper’s Camping CenterWaller, TX(800) [email protected]

RVDA

BOARDS:OFFIC

ERS,DIR

ECTORS,&

DELEGATES


9

Info For The Big Picture

QQUUIICCKKTAKES

REASONS FOR CAMPING MORE IN 2015What has the most impact on your decision to camp more this year?

From KOA's 2015 North American Camping Report

Change in interpersonal situation (e.g., marital orrelationship status, network of friends, etc.)

Retired

Changed jobs

Improvement in the economy in general

Change in personal financial situation

More free time

Decreased gas prices

Want to explore some new areas/attractions

Want to spend more time with family or friends 68%

67%

60%

58%

49%

46%

31%

30%

38%

AVERAGE $ SPENT ON TRIPSBY AFFLUENT HOUSEHOLDS

BoomersGen XMillennials$6,200 $3,700 $2,900

From Shullman Research Center

WHO’S CAMPING?The proportion of “active camper” households –meaning they camp at least occasionally –currently stands at 44 percent, representing a largenumber of households (46 million). Overall, thisproportion of households who camp at leastoccasionally has risen by six percentage points overthe past two years (from 38% to 44%) based on asimilar study conducted in 2012. There is also anincrease in the campers who camp bi-annually.



ORV Rental Revenue Up, Fleet Size StableBy Jeff Kurowski

Last year was a good one for RV rental dealers, with the majorityenjoying double-digit increases in their rental revenue. Some dealerseven saw jumps of 50 percent or more, according to a survey conductedthis spring by the Recreation Vehicle Rental Association (RVRA).

R E N T A L R E P O R T

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

402015

2014

more than100 units

51 - 100units

21 - 50units

11 - 20units

6 - 10units

1 - 5units

%

39%

34%

15%

20%

24%

20%

17%

22%

2% 2% 2% 2%

0 10 20 30 40 50

1 night

2 nights

3 nights

4 -5 nights

6 - 7 nights

>7 nights

%

3%

5%

15%

48%

3%

5%

Only 9 percent of dealers had lower rentalrevenue in 2014, and 15 percent made the same asthey had the previous year.

But in spite of last year’s revenue increases,many of the dealers who responded to the recentsurvey have small rental fleets and say there arevarious challenges standing in the way of expandingtheir operations for this year’s peak season. Thenumber of units that some dealers plan to add basi-cally offsets the number that other dealers plan tosubtract from their fleets. Consequently, it appearsthat this year’s RV rental fleet will be about thesame size as it was in 2014.

The biggest challenges facing dealers who rentare getting financing and insurance providers forrental units, and difficulty buying the types of RVsbest suited for rental in their markets. A significantpercentage of survey respondents also said stafftraining is a challenge.

While the multi-location national and regionalcompanies that specialize in RV rentals typicallyoffer motorhomes – primarily Class Cs – a highpercentage of dealers responding to this year’s

survey said they rent only towables. In fact, two-thirds of respondents said they will deliver trailersto where their customers plan to use them, so evencustomers without tow vehicles can rent a unit.

Long weekends appear to be the most populartime for RV rentals, with almost half of the dealerssaying three nights was the average length of theirrental contracts. Almost a quarter said four toseven+ nights was the average length of theircontracts, and 8 percent said one or two nights wastheir average.

While couples and families with children are abig part of the RV rental market, dealers often seegroups of men renting RVs for hunting/fishingtrips and weekends at major sporting events. Inthose cases, the number of sleeping areas is impor-tant. Almost 70 percent of dealers say their rentalcustomers want at least four separate sleeping areasand, in many cases, six or more.

RVRA is a unit of RVDA; the survey wasconducted through the RV Retailer Intelligenceprogram, a service of the RV Assistance Corp.(RVAC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of RVDA. n

Rental Fleet Size2015 vs. 2014

Average Length of 2014Rental Contract in 2014


11JULY 2015

Acquisition ofRental Fleet

Units

FindingInsuranceProviders

FindingFinanceSources

StaffTraining

15%

28%

30%

28%

No

Yes

66%

34%

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35

down more than 50%

down 20% - 49%

down 10% - 19%

down 6% - 9%

down 1% - 5%

no change

up 1% - 5%

up 6% - 9%

up 10% - 19%

up 20% - 49%

up more than 50%

%

10%

17%

32%

10%

7%

15%

0%

7%

0%

0%

2%0

10

20

30

40

50

7 or moreat least 6at least 4at least 2

%

28%

41%

28%

3%

Rental Revenue2014 vs. 2013

Biggest ChallengesFacing RV Rentals

Do you deliver rentedtowables to where customers

will be using them?

How many sleeping areasdo rental customers want?

Reasons for not expanding the rental fleet

• It's hard to get funding when you're small• Haven’t had an increase in demand• Would need to add staff, which could hurt profitability• The season is too short for the cost of inventory• Can pick from new or used unit inventory if needed• Insufficient cash flow for additional units



Q:Your business is a managed-fleet RV rental company –explain how that works.

A:This rental model is designedto help both owners and RVrental companies. Owners get incomeand tax deductions, which make theirRVs more affordable. That, in turn,may enable the owner to afford a moreexpensive RV than he could haveafforded without the financial help.

The rental company benefits byhaving more RVs and a greater varietyof models to rent, without the finan-cial investment. Other benefits includework for the service department, partssales for the parts department, and apotential pool of high-quality usedmodels for the sales department.

There are many variations of thisrental model, and they all share thesecharacteristics:• The RV owner uses a company to

manage and rent his unit forprofit.

• The company rents the RV toresponsible people.

• The rental company and the ownersplit the income, usually 50/50.

• The owner gets certain tax deduc-tions in addition to the income.

• The owner retains full ownershipand gets to use his RV when hewants.

Q:Do you see an increase indemand for RV rentals? If so,what lifestyle and demographic factorsare driving that demand?

A:The demand for RV rentals hasalways been strong. Many

rental companies had annual double-digit revenue growth before the reces-

sion. Even during the recession, mostprudently operated rental companiesremained healthy. During the past twoto three years, the demand has startedto approach the revenues of the early tomid-2000s. Fueling this reneweddemand are multi-family groups trav-eling together and overseas visitors.There’s also a trend developing of one-way trips, as families try to make betteruse of their limited vacation time.

At our dealership, we’re seeing areturn of previous customers whodeprived themselves of traditionalvacations during the recession yearsbut are now resuming affordable,regional trips.

Q:Where can dealers who wantto start a rental operation go

for information and training?

A:There are three establishedways for an existing dealership,or a start-up, to get professional infor-mation and training on starting amanaged RV rental business. First,RVDA’s annual convention offersworkshops, vendors, and networkingopportunities to get started. When Ifirst investigated the industry about 15years ago, I went to the conventionand got a great “eye opener” aboutinsurance, pricing, fleet composition,

marketing, and accessories. With thatinformation, I felt I was ready to startExpedition Motor Homes, with amighty fleet of two units!

Second, for those who want tolearn all the ins and outs, attend theMBA RV rental school. In addition toquality instruction and supportivedocuments like the Rental OperationsManual, students can brainstorm withpeers, the instructors, and supplierswho are all dedicated for that three-day period to answering all their ques-tions and concerns.

Third, a new rental department orcompany may want to hire a profes-sional consultant to work with themon the specifics of starting andrunning the company, improvingprofit, and reducing risks. This cantake the form of ongoing consultation,or consulting for specific projects orproblems. Consultants can be manage-ment companies or individuals, likeme, who have done it and want othersto succeed in the business, too.

After the start-up phase there aregroups and peer mentors who gatherdealers together regularly to exchangeinformation to grow and improve theirbusinesses. Whatever stage of devel-opment an RV rental business is in,there is support available to help thembecome successful. n

Thinking of Starting an RV Rental Business?Here’s One Successful Dealer’s AdviceMartin Onken owns Expedition Motor Homes Inc., an RV rental company in Calabasas,CA. He will be a Mini Rental School presenter at RVDA’s 2015 annual convention.


L ast year, the RV industry suffered from inventorydelivery delays due to a lack of qualified commercialdrivers. That pressure has subsided, thanks in part to

industry efforts to help solve the dilemma.RVIA asked the Federal Motor Carrier Safety

Administration (FMCSA)to exempt the RV industryfrom its CommercialDriver’s License (CDL)requirements when trans-porting RVs for businesspurposes. Currently, RVsare considered commercialmotor vehicles when they’rebeing transported from amanufacturer’s facility, orwhen dealers take them to RV shows and rallies.

RVIA noted that RV shipments consistently jumpduring February through June, and that each unit must beindividually transported. This results in units piling up inRV transporters' yards because there aren’t enough CDL-qualified drivers available. The seasonal driver shortage

creates delays in deliveries to dealerships, and consumers,in turn, may have to wait weeks or months for delivery oftheir purchase.

In pressing for the exemption, RVIA also noted thatdelivery drivers have substantially more experience oper-

ating RVs than do RV owners themselves whooperate their units for recreational purposes. And

manufacturers and trans-port companies have a fargreater economic incentiveto train and monitor theirRV drivers because oftheir greater liabilityexposure.

CDL operators arerequired to have special-ized training and cleandriving records, and to

maintain burdensome logs of their hours and undergo drugand alcohol testing. RV owners who use their units forpersonal purposes don’t face these same demands.

RVDA, along with several RV state associations(Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Florida) submitted commentsin support of RVIA’s request.

FMCSA recently granted that request by allowing atwo-year exemption from the CDL requirements. Underthe exemption, drivers who deliver newly manufacturedmotorhomes and RVs to dealers or trade shows beforeretail sale (drive-away operations) won’t be required to havea CDL.

The exemption covers employees of all U.S. drive-awaycompanies, RV manufacturers, and RV dealers transportingunits between manufacturing sites and dealer locations andfor movements prior to the first retail sale.

Drivers engaged in drive-away deliveries of RVs withgross vehicle weight ratings of 26,001 lbs. or more won’tneed a CDL as long as the empty RVs have gross vehicleweights or gross combination weights of 26,000 lbs. or less.RV trailers towed by other vehicles must weigh 10,000 lbs.or less. RV units with a combined gross vehicle weightexceeding 26,000 lbs. are not covered by the exemption.

Despite this temporary exemption from the CDLrequirements, RV dealers are still required to displayUSDOT numbers when an RV qualified as a commercialmotor vehicle is used for business purposes.

The CDL exemption ends April 6, 2017. RVIA isrequired to report to FMCSA any accidents involving RVscovered by this exemption. If all goes well during thisperiod, it may be possible to petition the FMCSA for apermanent exemption. n


RV Industry Gets Temporary CDL ExemptionBy Brett Richardson, RVDA Director of Legal & Regulatory Affairs



VENDOR TRAINING +PLUS OFFERSTRAINING ON THE LATEST PRODUCTS

LIST OF EXHIBITORS AS OF JUNE 15VISIT WWW.RVDA.ORG/CONVENTION FOR UPDATES ON THE EXHIBITORS.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22:45 - 3:45DiversifiedGreg ArtmanA Leadership Primer

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 38:15 - 9:15OmniaCarolyn EagenManage and retain the Four(sometimes Five) Generationsin Today’s Workplace andKEEP your coveted skilledtalent!

9:30 - 10:30AIRXCEL Inc.Rick LinkLearn about Suburban's NewIW60 On-Demand WaterHeater that features Suburban'sexclusive 2-Stage Self-Modulating CombustionSystem

9:30 - 10:30Lippert ComponentsSteve Paul & Jarod LippertTurnkey Profit Center Programsfrom Lippert Components

9:30 - 11:45 (2-hour session)IDSMark Berggren & Ajay ThakurUsing New IDS Technology toImprove the Customer Experience

10:45 - 11:45DiversifiedGreg ArtmanCash Conversions

10:45 - 11:45RV Inspection ConnectionTerry CooperIncreasing Your Bottom Linewith Certified Pre-Owned RVs

12:00 - 1:00eBAY MotorsClayton StanfieldThe Online (Sales) PlaybookWorkshop

12:00 - 1:00Genius MonkeyJeremy HudgensTechnology & Big Data: WhatIt Means To Your RV LeadGeneration

Vendor training +Plus topics are designed to helpdealership management increase profitability through

increased knowledge of the latest products and services onthe market. The sessions begin on Monday, Nov. 2, andcontinue through Tuesday, Nov. 3. Vendor Training +Plus isfree for all full convention registrants, so dealers should planto arrive early in the week to take full advantage of these

extra sessions. Registered dealers can bring additional staffto attend Vendor Training +Plus at the special rate of $205per person. This two-day fee includes the training sessionsand Tuesday’s reception in the expo halls.* This is a partial schedule -- for updates, check the 2015 RVDealers International Convention/Expo website frequently atwww.rvda.org/convention.

A World of TrainingADESA Specialty AuctionsAirstream Inc.AIRXCEL RV GroupSilver Partner:Ally FinancialAmerican Guardian Group ofCompaniesAmerica's RV and Marine AuctionAqua-Hot Heating Systems Inc.ARIArrow Distributing, IncArterra DistributionASA ElectronicsAuction123.comBronze Partner:Bank of America MerrillLynchBronze Partner:Bank of the West

Bison CoachBlue OxBob Clements International Inc.Brasher's Northwest Auto AuctionBronze Partner:Brown & BrownRecreational InsuranceCarefree of ColoradoCDK GlobalCequent Performance ProductsCirrus SolutionsCoach LiftCoach-NetCoast Distribution SystemCrossRoads RVCruiser RV LLCCummins OnanDealer Spike RVDexter Axle Company

Bronze Partner:Diversified InsuranceManagement Inc.DRV Luxury Suites LLCDuratain Inc.Dutchmen Manufacturing Inc.EasyCare RVEBay MotorsBronze Partner:Forest RiverPlatinum Partner:GE Capital, CommercialDistribution FinanceGenius MonkeyHaulmark Industries Inc.Heartland Recreational Vehicles LLCHighland Ridge RV Inc.IDS - Integrated Dealer SystemsIHS AutomotiveInfinite Creative Enterprises Inc.

Infinity Luxury Woven VinylKeystone RV CompanyKZ RVLance Camper ManufacturingCorporation (LCMC)Level 5 AdvertisingLippert Components Inc.Livin' Lite RV Inc.Marzahn & King Consulting Inc.Bronze Partner:MBA Insurance Inc.Medallion BankMerrick BankMobile Sleep Components (RVMattresses)MORryde International Inc.NADAguides & NADAguides.comNational AutomotiveExperts/NWANNewmar Corporation

2015 RV DEALERS INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION/EXPO • NOV. 2-6


17JULY 2015

12:00 - 1:00AGWSCharles CampbellMaintaining profits and compli-ance in today's legal environ-ment

1:15 - 2:15RV Inspection ConnectionTerry CooperLearn How a Certified RVInspection of Your Rental UnitsCan Reduce Your Headaches

1:15 - 2:15WFCOTom RyanWhy WFCO products are TheHEARTBEAT of Today’s RV’s

1:15 - 2:15RV Dealer Pro TrainingDon Reed & Tim KintzLeading From the Neck Up toBring Your Net Up

NextGear CapitalNorthpoint Commercial Finance LLCNTP-STAGThe Omnia GroupPettes & Hesser Ltd.Phoenix American Warranty Co. Inc.Pirit Heated HosePriority One Financial Services Inc.Progress Mfg. Inc.Gold Sponsor:ProtectiveRiverside Travel TrailerRoadtrek Motorhomes Inc.Robert Weed Plywood CorporationRV DealerPro TrainingRV Inspection ConnectionRV TraderRVM PromotionsSobel University

Spader Business ManagementSpartan ChassisStatistical Surveys Inc.Suburban PropaneSys2K / RV123.comBronze Partner:TCF Inventory Finance Inc.Silver Partner:Thor Industries Inc.Thor Motor Coach Inc.Tom Manning & Associates Inc.Tuson RV Brakes LLCU.S. Bank, Recreation FinanceUnited States Warranty CorporationVision Selling SystemsWFCO ElectronicsWheeler Advertising Inc.Wolters Kluwer Financial ServicesZamp Solar LLC

AGENDA-AT-A-GLANCE*Monday, November 211:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. RVDA of America Board of Delegates

lunch and meeting12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. RVDA of Canada Board of Directors lunch

and meeting2:45 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Vendor Training Plus+

Partners in Progress meetings2:45 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. KZ RV Partners in Progress meeting5:15 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Society of Certified RV Professionals recep-

tion with Bob Clements

Tuesday, November 38:00 a.m. Dealer lounge opens8:15 a.m. - 2:15 p.m. Vendor Training Plus+

Partners in Progress meetings12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. PrimeTime Partners in Progress meeting12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Learn How Renting Will Enhance Your

Sales, Service, Parts and F&I Business - anRVRA special session in partnership withthe MBA RV Rental School

2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Opening general session and keynoteaddress

4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Expo open with receptions in both halls

Wednesday, November 48:00 a.m. Dealer lounge opens9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Concurrent workshops10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. RVDA of America annual meeting

RVDA of Canada annual meetingParts & service management trackworkshop

11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Expo open (lunch served at noon)Noon Lunch served in both halls of expo2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Concurrent workshops3:15 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. Concurrent workshops4:15 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Young Executives reception

Thursday, November 58:00 a.m. Dealer lounge opens9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Concurrent workshops10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. Concurrent workshops11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Expo open (lunch served at noon)Noon Lunch served in both halls of the expo2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Concurrent workshops3:15 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. Concurrent workshops4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Concurrent workshops

Friday, November 67:30 a.m. Coffee service8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Compliance education9:15 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. Compliance education

* Subject to change


LEARN HOW TOSTAND OUT FROMYOUR COMPETITORS!

2015 RV DEALERS INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION/EXPO • NOV. 2-6

Follow the conversation on:Presented by:

Mike MolinoThe

AA n educated, well-trained staff setsyour dealership apart from thecompetition and wins over more

customers with its professionalism. RVDA’sconvention/expo, slated for Nov. 2-6 atBally’s in Las Vegas, offers a week’s worth oftraining opportunities for virtually everydealership employee. Here’s just some ofwhat you’ll find:

• Streamlined educationsessions with newspeakers

• Wi-Fi equipped dealerlounge

• Free smartphone appfor conventionschedule planning

• Vendor Training +Plus sessions onMonday and Tuesday

• Workshops and receptionfor up-and-coming youngRV executives

• Society of CertifiedRV Professionalseducation recognitionand networking

FOR MORE INFO VISITWWW.RVDA.ORG/CONVENTION

AND REGISTER TODAY!

Get your Passport to Excellence: Education and Training

2015 PARTNERS


19

DEALER REGISTRATION FORM

2. Registration Fees:

1. Registration Information. Please copy this form if adding registrants.

3. Payment Information:

Nov. 2-6, 2015Bally’s on the Las Vegas Strip

Company Name ___________________________________________________________

Phone _______________________________ Fax ________________________________

Address __________________________________________________________________

City_________________________________ State/Prov________ Zip/PC____________

Email_____________________________________________________________________

Name on Card ___________________________________ Card # ____________________________ Expires ________ Security Code ______

Billing Address ____________________________________ City _______________________________ State/Prov _____ Zip/PC ____________

� Full Amount or � Easy Pay (credit card only: 3 equal installments willbe charged to your credit card, first on date received, then at 30 and 60 days).If neither box is checked you will be charged the full amount in one payment.

� Check enclosedCharge my: � Visa � MC � Amex � Discover

First registrant locks in today’s lowest rate for all future dealership personnel! Advanced Regular Amount7/1 - 8/31 After 8/31

I would like to add a contribution to the Mike Molino RV Learning Center to promote education for our industry.* $

Dealership must have one full convention registrant to bring additional employees JUST for Vendor Training +Plus.The cost is $205 per person and includes Vendor Training +Plus training on Monday, Nov. 2 and Tuesday, Nov. 3,and Tuesday’s reception in the Expo. Photocopy this form to add more registrants for Vendor Training +Plus.

MAIL OR FAX A COPY OF THIS FORM TO:RVDA of America, 3930 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030-2515 • (703) 591-7130 • Fax: (703) 359-0152 • www.rvda.orgRVDA of Canada, Ste. 145, 11331 Coppersmith Way, Richmond, BC V7A 5J9 • (604) 718-6325 • Fax: (604) 204-0154 • www.rvda.caCANCELLATION / REFUND POLICY: All cancellations must be in writing and received by August 31, 2015, to qualify for a refund. A $50 administrativefee will be deducted from each refund request received by July 31, 2015. A $100 administrative fee will be deducted from each refund request receivedbetween August 1, 2015 and August 31, 2015. No refunds will be made after August 31, 2015. *The Mike Molino RV Learning Center is a tax-exemptorganization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions may be tax deductible as charitable donations.

TOTAL $

First Registrant – includes Vendor Training +Plus, a $205 value! $659 $919 $

Registrant Name ________________________________________________ Email ___________________________________________________

Badge First Name_______________________________________________ Please check here if you require special accommodations. �

Second Registrant – includes Vendor Training +Plus, a $205 value! $639 $919 $



Third Registrant – includes Vendor Training +Plus, a $205 value! $639 $919 $



NON-MEMBER DEALER – includes Vendor Training +Plus, a $205 value! $1,299 $



Name __________________________________ Badge First Name_____________________ Email ______________________ $Name __________________________________ Badge First Name_____________________ Email ______________________ $

ONLY


Neff Brothers RV recently celebrated thegrand opening of its new facility in Lorain,

OH. The family-owned and operated businessdecided to remain in the community where ithad operated for the past 10 years but move to alarger and better-suited building that wouldallow the company to expand. The new locationis 4500 Grove Avenue.

The celebration included a ribbon-cuttingceremony hosted by Lorain’s mayor, live music,a giant bounce house and other family enter-tainment, and the debutof its new travel trailerline. Neff Brothers RValso raffled off aweekend RV getaway,with ticket proceedsgoing to the SecondHarvest Food Bank ofNorth Central Ohio.“We love to be involved

with the city, community members, andother local businesses that are helpingLorain to thrive,” says general manager andco-owner Angela Dudziak. n


MEMBERNEWS

The PleasureLand RV family of dealershipsopened its sixth dealership, located at 17395

State Highway 371 in Brainerd, MN. The newlocation features a 14-acre sales display lot and a28,000-square-foot facility with the area’s onlyindoor showroom. The new dealership has 10 50-foot service bays and specializes in complete bodyrepair, service needs, and accessory installation. Italso has a large RV parts and accessory store.

The new location has more than 150 new andpre-owned motorhomes, mini motorhomes, fifthwheels, toy haulers, travel trailers, destinationtrailers, park models, and tent trailers on display.

The company also opened PleasureLand RVBudget Lot and Surplus Store of Brainerd, locatedat 16599 State Highway 371. This store offers pre-

owned RVs, as well as a selectionof new travel trailers, tenttrailers, cargo trailers, ice fishinghouses and huntingcabins. This locationalso books RV rentalsand sells discountedparts, appliances,doors, windows, andfurniture.

PleasureLand RVCenter was foundedin 1971 and isfamily-owned andoperated, with head-quarters in St. Cloud, MN. n

PleasureLand RVOpens 6th Dealership

Neff Brothers RV Celebrates Opening of New Facility

Have some good news? Send it to us forinclusion in the Member News column.Email [email protected].


JULY 2015 21

Special activities took place nationwide as theoutdoor recreation community – including the

American Recreation Coalition and RVDA –celebrated Great OutdoorsMonth. Missouri GovernorJay Nixon, The ColemanCompany, and Missouri StateParks teamed up for a GreatOutdoors Day at the statecapitol, and RVDA memberBill Thomas Camper Salesprovided a fifth wheel forvisitors to tour.

In addition to viewing theRV, 84 people from across thestate got the chance to campout at the capitol grounds.

The event offered activi-ties for kids and families allday long, from kayaking andshooting bows and arrows toclimbing a climbing wall.

Governor Nixon noted that participating familieswere evenly split between those who had beencamping before and those who hadn't. n

Bill Thomas Camper Sales Takes RV to State Capitol for Great Outdoors Event



RVDA’s board of directors approved a revised DealerSatisfaction Index (DSI) survey during its meeting

last month in Arlington, VA. The annual DSI survey,entering its 22nd year in 2015, measures RV dealers’overall satisfaction with their manufacturers. Thestreamlined survey will concentrate on vehiclereliability/quality, parts support, warranty support, andsales support. The changes to the DSI questions weredeveloped by the RVDA Industry Relations Committee,chaired by Debbie Brunoforte of Little Dealer, Little

Prices, and Randy Biles of Pike’s Peak Traveland. Thesurvey will be sent to dealers in August in both an onlineand paper version to give dealers maximum flexibilitywhen responding.

“The RVDA board and the Industry RelationsCommittee worked hard to sharpen the focus on dealerand customer support issues,” says RVDA President PhilIngrassia. “Many manufacturers tell RVDA they use DSIresults to adjust policies and procedures that affect dealers,so it’s important for dealers to participate.” n

RVDA Board of Directors Approves Revised DSI SurveyEdited by RVDA Staff

RVIA President Richard Coon (right), who will retire at the end of September, gavehis final update to the RVDA Board of Directors at its June meeting. In appreciation

of his service to the industry, RVDA President Phil Ingrassia presented Coon with anOrvis fly fishing rod and reel. As RVIA president, Coon spearheaded initiatives toexpand and improve technician education, create a unified North American RV marketby harmonizing marketing efforts and RV standards between the United States andCanada, and upgrade the RVing experience for customers. Frank Hugelmeyer, formerlyof the Outdoor Industry Association, will officially take over October 1. n

RVDA Thanks RVIA’s Richard Coon for Industry Service


23JULY 2015

A World of Training4523 River Close BlvdValrico, FLPhone: (866) [email protected]

Blum Shapiro29 South Main Street Suite 400W Hartford, CTPhone: (860) [email protected]

Customer ServiceIntelligence, IncPO Box 2694Crystal Lake, ILPhone: (847) [email protected]

DTC RetailConsulting, IncPO Box 49277Jacksonville Beach, FLPhone: (803) [email protected]

Fribley TechnicalServices, Inc58194 Andrew DrGoshen, INPhone: (574) [email protected]

Kelly EnterprisesPO Box 821665Vancouver, WAPhone: (800) [email protected]

KPA1380 Forest Park Circle Ste 140Lafayette, COPhone: (303) [email protected]

Marzahn & KingConsulting, Inc1064 Laskin Road Ste 13CVirginia Beach, VAPhone: (757) [email protected]

McAlhaneyConsulting, LLC5357 Chiswick CircleOrlando, FLPhone: (321) [email protected]

The Omnia Group1501 West Cleveland Street, #300Tampa, FLPhone: (813) [email protected]

Recreational VehicleService Academy1012 10th Street EastPalmetto, FLPhone: (941) [email protected]

RV DealerPro Training1020 Taylor Station Road, Suite BGahanna, OHPhone: (614) [email protected]

RV EDUCATION 101150 Bay Ridge RoadHarrells, NCPhone: (910) [email protected]

RV InspectionConnection110 Tulaka BlvdHeber Springs, ARPhone: (800) [email protected]

Sobel UniversityPO Box 65002University Place, WAPhone: (253) [email protected]

Spader BusinessManagementPO Box 2820Sioux Falls,, SDPhone: (605) [email protected]

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS THAT PROVIDE CONSULTINGAND TRAINING SERVICES



RECERTIFIEDRobert Browne . . . . . . . . Master TechnicianJeffery Phillips. . . . . . . . . Master TechnicianKevin Smith . . . . . . . . . . . Master TechnicianKen Boyer, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . Master TechnicianRichard Stull . . . . . . . . . . Master TechnicianMichael Rhone . . . . . . . . Master TechnicianLance Chambers . . . . . . . TechnicianJason Mummert . . . . . . . TechnicianTimothy Pope . . . . . . . . . TechnicianLawrence Clark . . . . . . . . TechnicianJohn Riddle . . . . . . . . . . . TechnicianAnthony Livelsberger . . . TechnicianDarren Gautreau . . . . . . . TechnicianDaniel Boyer . . . . . . . . . . TechnicianBrian Hulings . . . . . . . . . . TechnicianMichael Lanning . . . . . . . TechnicianWilliam Hofer . . . . . . . . . TechnicianRodney Wettling . . . . . . . TechnicianJames King. . . . . . . . . . . . Technician

NEWLY CERTIFIEDShawn Diamond . . . . . . . . Master TechnicianJustin Stoddard . . . . . . . . . TechnicianBenjamin Karbowski . . . . TechnicianShane Forsythe . . . . . . . . . TechnicianRodney Thibault . . . . . . . . TechnicianGerald Ross . . . . . . . . . . . . TechnicianDavid Mckie. . . . . . . . . . . . TechnicianMichael Wetteland . . . . . . TechnicianLarry Turner . . . . . . . . . . . . TechnicianRyan Blossfield . . . . . . . . . TechnicianChristopher Bell . . . . . . . . TechnicianPam Neidlein . . . . . . . . . . . TechnicianHeather O'Day. . . . . . . . . . TechnicianCorey Paz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TechnicianTyler LaBelle . . . . . . . . . . . TechnicianWilliam Eggett . . . . . . . . . TechnicianSpenser Roig . . . . . . . . . . . Body SpecialistCraig Cinque . . . . . . . . . . . Chassis SpecialistCraig Cinque . . . . . . . . . . . Plumbing SpecialistEric Louderback-DuSchene. . Chassis SpecialistSpenser Roig . . . . . . . . . . . Plumbing SpecialistSherri Finstad . . . . . . . . . . Warranty AdministratorByron Thompson . . . . . . . . Service Writer/AdvisorTony Gibbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . Service Writer/AdvisorAndrew Harris . . . . . . . . . . Service Manager

W ant to give yourcertified teammembers credit

for their hard work andachievement? Their namescan appear in the nextupdate. Just return thisform by email [email protected] or fax to(703) 359-0152. Moreinformation about theSociety of Certified RVProfessionals and therecognition program isavailable athttp://tinyurl.com/SocietyofRVProfessionals.

T he Society of Certified RVProfessionals’ recognitionprogram publishes a quarterly

update of individuals who haveearned certification or recertificationfrom either the Mike Molino RVLearning Center or the RVDA-RVIARV Service Technician Certificationprogram. The following list includesonly individuals whose dealershipshave chosen to participate in therecognition program. If you’d like tojoin the program, complete andreturn the form below.

Certifiably Professional



Name: _______________________________________________________________________________________

Company Name: ________________________________________________________________________________

Address: ______________________________________ City:_____________________ State: ____ Zip:__________

Phone: __________________________ Fax: _________________________ E-mail: __________________________

q RVDA Member q Non-RVDA Member I’d like to order the: q Manual: ____ copies q CD-ROM: ____ copies

Total Amount $_____________

PAYMENT METHOD (Please check one)

q Check enclosed (payable to the Mike Molino RV Learning Center) q Send an invoice (members only)

Credit Card: q Visa q MasterCard q Amex q Discover

Card Number: _________________________________________________ Security Code: _________ Expires: _____

Name on Card: _____________________________________ Signature: ____________________________________

Billing Address: ______________________________________________________________ Billing Zip:___________

RVDA, 3930 University Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030, (703) 591-7130, Fax (703) 359-0152, Email: [email protected]

New 11th Edition Service Management Guide (Flat Rate Manual)

1/2015

The expanded Service ManagementGuide offers over 100 pages of

average work unit times for the most basicservice functions performed by competentRV technicians.

• The 11th Edition of the ServiceManagement Guide offers extensiveupdates and additions provided bydealers, service managers, andtechnicians.

• Service Check Sheets provide a valuablereference for service managers andtechnicians.

• A great tool for working with extendedservice contracts.

• Available in 2 formats: printed ondurable cardstock paper with a 3-ringbinder, and as a searchable pdfdocument on CD-ROM.

The Service Management Guide isdesigned to provide reasonableguidance relative to the timerequired for competent techniciansto complete assigned tasks. It is animportant part of the servicemanagement system, but it is notintended to be the soledeterminant of prices or ratescharged in that sale of service.

Order Online at http://www.rvlearningcenter.com. Note: prices are subject to change without notice.

Mike MolinoThe

New 11th Edition Service Management Guide (Flat Rate Manual)

Manual or CD-ROM:RVDA Members $175Non-Members: $350Members save $175!

Manual and CD-ROM:RVDA Members $290Non-Members: $585Members save $295!


Name: ______________________________________________________________________Company: __________________________________________________________________Address: ____________________________________________________________________City: __________________________________________State: _____ Zip:____________Phone: ___________________________________ Fax:______________________________Email: ______________________________________________________________________Dealer website: ____________________________________________________________

Fax to (703) 359-0152, or mail to RVDA, 3930University Dr., Fairfax, VA,22030. Formore information, visit www.rvda.org or send an email [email protected]

Please enroll _____ dealership(s) at $250 each.Make checks payable to RVDA. q Check here for leads delivered byU.S. mail.Credit card (circle): VISA MC DISCOVER AMEXCredit card #: ___________________________________________ Exp. date: ________Cardholder: ________________________________________Security code: ________Signature: __________________________________________________________________

Get on board with Go RVing! Return this form TODAY!



The DLN offers your dealership:• Onsite training• Group training• No travel time or expenses• Self-determined pace• One fixed price of $995 for thesubscription term

The Florida RV Trade Associationand RVDA’s Mike Molino RVLearning Center partner to providedistance learning opportunities to RVdealers and their employees. The DistanceLearning Network is $995 per year for each dealer-ship location. Over 50 sessions available, 24 hours aday, seven days a week, with full access to trainingthrough July 31, 2015.

The DLN offers online training for:• RV Technicians – The certification prep course helpstechnicians get ready for the certification exam.Your subscription includes unlimited access to more

than 50 training sessions, reviews, and test prepara-tion sections. Also included are manufacturer- and

supplier-specific advanced repair and trou-bleshooting classes designed to upgradetechnicians’ skills. Completion of theseclasses qualifies for recertificationhours. Classes are available 24/7throughout the program year,providing maximum flexibility.

• Service Writers/Advisors – Thisthree-hour program is valuable for both

new staff and experienced personnelpreparing for the RV Learning Center’s Service

Writer/Advisor certification.

• Greeters/Receptionists – This 50-minute session issuitable for all employees who need customerservice skills. It includes a final exam and certificateof completion.

• Dealers/GMs – This program features importanttopics for management, including lemon laws, LPgas licensing issues, and the federal Red Flags Rule.

Company Name: ______________________________________________________________________________________________

Address: ____________________________________________ City: ________________________ State: ______ Zip: ____________

Phone: ______________________________________________ Fax: __________________________________________________

Mentor Name: __________________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________________

E-mail (at dealership) : ____________________________________________________ Fax: ________________________________

**High speed Internet access required. RVIA service textbooks not included**

_____ location(s) at $995 each = payment due: $______________ (select payment method below)

PAYMENT METHOD Note: prices are subject to change without notice. Complete lower section and mail or fax to:Florida RV Trade Association, 10510 Gibsonton Drive, Riverview, FL 33578, (813) 741-0488, Fax: (813) 741-0688

q PAY BY CHECK OR MONEY ORDER q PAY BY VISA OR MASTERCARD

Name on Credit Card: __________________________________________ Card Number: ____________________________________

Security Code: _________ Expires: __________ Card Billing Address:______________________________________________________

Card Holder Signature: __________________________________________________________________________________________

For more information, call (386) 754-4285 or go to https://www.fgc.edu/academics/occupational-programs/rv-institute/

ONLINE TRAINING WITH FRVTA’SDISTANCE LEARNINGNETWORK

DEALERSHIP REGISTRATION

8/2014

Mike MolinoThe


29JULY 2015



Certified Green RV ProgramTRA Certification [email protected]: (800) 398-9282 Fax: (574)264-0740TRA, the leading third-party greencertification company, through its“Certified Green RV Program,”measures, evaluates, and certifiesRV manufacturers and verifiesvendors for energy efficiency andenvironmental friendliness. Thisprogram empowers dealers toguide environmentally-consciousconsumers in making better-informed decisions about their RVpurchases, leading to increasedcustomer satisfaction.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Credit Card ProcessingBank of America MerchantServiceshttps://rvdealer.bankofamerica.comjay.machamer@bankofamericamer-chant.com(678) 784-0567Bank of America MerchantServices offers RVDA members anannual savings averaging 10-to-15percent on each Visa andMasterCard swipe transaction.Advanced equipment provides fastauthorization, around-the-clocksupport, and improved fundsavailability for those with a depos-itory relationship with the bank.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Disability Income Insurance/Paycheck Protection BenefitsAmerican FidelityAssurance Companywww.afadvantage.comTed [email protected](800) 654-8489, Ext. 6530Dealerships can provide disabilityinsurance to provide security for aportion of an employee’s paycheckin the event they are unable towork due to a covered accident orillness.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Emergency Roadside andTechnical [email protected](800) 863-6740Coach-Net provides emergencyroadside and technical assistancesolutions to RV dealers throughoutthe U.S. and Canada and for manyRV and chassis manufacturers, RVclubs, and customer membershipgroups. Coach-Net provides dedi-cated service using over 150employees with advanced commu-nications technology toolscombined with an extensivedatabase of more than 40,000service providers. The company

employs trained Customer ServiceAgents and RVDA-RVIA/ASEMaster Certified Technical ServiceAgents.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Employee TestingCaliper Corp.www.calipercorp.comRalph [email protected](609) 524-1214For nearly a half-century, Caliperhas consulted with over 25,000companies on improving everyaspect of their workforce – fromhiring and selection to employeedevelopment and successionmanagement. Starting withaccurate, objective insights ourconsultants gain from our time-tested personality assessment, theCaliper Profile, we are able to helpour clients reduce the high cost ofturnover, help first-time managersexcel and create solutions that aretailored, practical and adaptable.Whether you are looking to hiretop performers, develop talent,build teams or transform yourorganization, we can help.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Extended Service AgreementsXtraRide RV ServiceAgreement Programwww.protectiveassetprotection.com(800) 950-6060, Ext. 5738The XtraRide RV ServiceAgreement Program is offeredthrough the Asset ProtectionDivision of Protective LifeInsurance Company. The programhas been exclusively endorsed byRVDA since 1992. The XtraRideprograms and F&I solutions bringdealers increased profit opportuni-ties while providing quality protec-tion for their customers. Protectiveis dedicated to providing the RVindustry with superior productsand services given its ability tounderwrite, administer, andmarket its own programs.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Health InsuranceMass Marketing InsuranceConsultants Inc. (MMIC)www.mmicinsurance.com/RVDA/[email protected](800) 349-1039MMIC contracts nationally with anumber of health insurancecompanies to provide a widevariety of benefits. MMIC creates acustomized insurance programbest suited for individual dealer-ships. Coverage is available to indi-vidual members and those firmswith two or more employees. Withgroup coverage, all active full-timeemployees are eligible. Spouse anddependent children under age 19(23 if full-time student) are also

eligible. The cost of the coveragefor the RVDA program may bepaid in whole by the employer orshared with the employees.However, the employer’s contribu-tion must be at least 50% of thetotal cost.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Hiring ToolsEmployment Network-A Careerco Companywww.employmentnetwork.net(718) 307-6258The Employment Network is anetwork of pay-for-performancejob sites. Its flagship site,FindTheRightJob.com, reachesmore than 5 million job seekersmonthly. Employers can drasticallyreduce their cost-per-hire by usingThe Employment Network’sFindtheRightJob.com portal andother sites. Employers set the jobrequirements and only pay forcandidates that meet them.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Lead Qualifier ProgramCustomer ServiceIntelligence Inc. (CSI)[email protected](800) 835-5274The Scene: High Inventory-LowSales. The Need: More Sales-Newmethods to meet circumstances.The Solution: CSI’s Lead QualifierProgram. How it Works: Your salesleads are sent to CSI immediatelyfollowing initial contact with yoursales staff, either in the showroomor by phone, website contact, GoRVing leads, and anywhere elseyou might acquire leads. CSI thenmakes a personal phone call toeach lead, captivating their atten-tion before your competitor doesand establishing impressiverapport! We will uncover theprospect’s initial impression of yourdealership and staff; fully qualifythe lead including exact needs andtime frame for purchase; andprovide you with their Deal Maker!

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Pre-owned RV AppraisalGuidanceN.A.D.A. Appraisal Guides& [email protected](800) 966-6232, Ext. 235The N.A.D.A. RV Appraisal Guideis an essential tool for dealersneeding to determine the averagemarket value for used RVs. A newonline program, RV Connect, isalso available that providesupdated RV values, creates customwindow stickers for both newerand older RVs, and more. Theseproducts are all available at theRVDA “members only” rate.

Propane and Propane SuppliesSuburban [email protected](800) 643-7137Suburban Propane offers discountsto RVDA members on propanealong with attractive and safeequipment for refilling most anypropane cylinder, 24-hour service,on-site “Train the Trainer” instruc-tion for dealership personnel,signage, and a periodic review offilling stations by safety experts.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

RVDA/Spader 20 GroupsSpader [email protected](800) 772-3377RVDA/Spader 20 Groups managedby Spader Business Managementhelp dealers improve theirmanagement skills, recognizemarket trends, and solve problems.The groups include non-competingdealers who share experiences todevelop best practices.

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Shipping DiscountsPartnerShip, LLCwww.PartnerShip.com/79rvda(800) 599-2902The RVDA Discount ShippingProgram, managed by PartnerShip,provides RVDA members withsubstantial shipping discounts.RVDA members who enroll in thefree program will save on smallpackage shipments with FedEx andless-than-truckload (LTL) freightshipments with UPS Freight andCon-way Freight. Visit our websitefor more information and to enroll.

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Software & Consulting [email protected](303) 228-2383KPA provides consulting servicesand software to more than 5,100automotive, truck, and equipmentdealerships. Its EnvironmentalHealth & Safety product lineprovides on-site, on-call, and onlineservices. Its Human ResourceManagement software, a total HRsolution designed in collaborationwith leading labor and employ-ment attorneys, ensures yourbusiness is in complete compliancewith state and federal regulations.Users have access to on-demandadvice from attorneys withexpertise in the RV industry.

RRVVDDAA EEnnddoorrsseedd PPrroodduuccttss

Visit www.rvcareers.orgRV dealers can access resumes andpost job openings through apartnership with BoxwoodTechnology at www.rvcareers.org.


31JULY 2015

AGWS(800) 579-2233 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2America’s Largest RV Show(888) 303-2887 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Diversified(800) 332-4264 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3MBA Insurance(800) 622-2201 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Protective(888) 274-5104 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . back cover

RV/MH Hall of Fame(800) 378-8694 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4RVT.com(800) 282-2183 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Sobel University(253) 565-2577 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Spader(800) 772-3377 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Wildfire Marketing(877) 973-4321 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

ADVERTISERS INDEX

TechnicianCertificationSelf-StudyPrep Course

FRVTA’s DistanceLearning Network -Training for EveryPosition at YourDealership

CustomerServiceTrainingthroughFRVTA’s DLN

Service Writer/AdvisorTrainingthroughFRVTA’s DLN

ONGOING ONLINE EVENTS:

Don’t see yourevents listed? Visit

www.rvtrainingcalendar.comto upload your events to the

calendar.

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DealersBama RVDothan, AL

AftermarketMartin AutomotiveWashington, IL

North Texas RV RepairKrum, TX

5/1/15 - 5/31/15


Latest survey: Revenues are up, towables are popular

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