Michigan Association of RVs and Campgrounds (MARVAC) President & CEO John Lindley said Michigan RV industry members are a little wary of tariff impacts and recent market turmoil.
“RVing and camping is a huge part of who we are and what we do in Michigan,” Lindley said. “People are not going to stop buying RVs, and people are not going to stop camping, but there are certainly unanswered questions about how costs might be impacted.”
Traverse City, Michigan-based Stromberg Carlson Products, Inc. leaders are bracing for changes in parts shipments from China.
Company President Robert Brammer Jr. said, “My last container came in 30% higher. The next one will be at the full 145%.”
Brammer said distributors have parts stocked at pre-tariff prices, but he expects parts to be more expensive later this summer.
“It won’t stop the summer RV season from starting,” Brammer said. “Many people tried to buy ahead.”
He said dollar signs will affect those waiting in line and those online.
“Tariffs will raise prices,” Brammer said. “They are also raising prices on eCommerce. For the past couple years, we have been paying 25% all along, and eCommerce has not. Now, RV dealers will be more competitive with eCommerce businesses.”
If a consumer already owns a travel trailer, Brammer said a tongue jack’s price difference between $225 or $295 will not prevent a purchase.
“If you need something,” he said, “I don’t think the tariffs are going to be enough to keep you from buying it.”
