GoRV - Digital Magazine Issue #93 | Page 110

RV FEATURE
“ A key initiative that further enhances consumer confidence is the RV Master Manufacturer program created by us , Caravan Industry Victoria . Brands participating in this program will undergo assessments by expert assessors , who examine their business practices , quality management , customer service , and commitment to compliance . By choosing an RV Master Manufacturer , consumers can trust that their caravan was built with meticulous attention to meeting the standards outlined in the program .”
Something else you can do : request a factory tour . In my experience , a credible company will be more than happy to show you around . It ’ s not always practical , especially when buying from a dealer interstate , but if it is possible , it ’ s worth the time .
JB Caravans – a 2023 Dirt Roader is shown here – is another manufacturer with a good reputation .
SUMMING UP
Above all , never pay full price for your caravan until you see it for yourself . If a manufacturer insists that you pay more than a reasonable deposit – typically 10 per cent – walk away . Do not allow yourself to be talked into paying full price until you see your new , finished caravan . This appears to be what occurred in a number of Tango cases – customers were sweet-talked into paying full price on the promise that doing so would speed up their build time .
Buying a caravan should be exciting , and for the vast majority of people , it is . Australia ’ s RV industry is vast and vibrant , but there have been some bad apples whose actions have tarnished the industry ’ s reputation .
By following the above advice , reassuring yourself as to the stability of the company , talking to former customers , inspecting the company ’ s products at an RV show , you ’ re putting yourself in the best possible position to avoid an unwelcome surprise . Again , Australia is lucky to have some incredible RV brands , and I could think of plenty off the top of my head that I wouldn ’ t hesitate to recommend . But like all things , to avoid doing your hard-earned dough , it ’ s essential to do some research . There ’ s that word again .
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