Most RV manufacturers stamp their product line with RVIA Seals. Most likely you have seen these stickers on your RV next to the door. This means that your motorhome or travel trailer meets certain standards set forth by RVIA. But what exactly does that mean? Lets find out!
Image Source RVIA
Every reputable industry has standards keeping consumer products safe. It also helps maintain a degree of quality. While businesses have OSHA, airlines have the FAA, news networks answer to the FCA, and the government has the people (well, that’s the idea anyways), in the RV industry, we have RVIA or Recreational Vehicle Industry Association.
Who is the RVIA?
RVIA embodies over 300 members from manufacturers and component suppliers supporting three basic functions:
- Provide marketing and statistical information to the RV industry.
- Promote the RV lifestyle through the “Go RVing” arm.
- Provide safety standards for manufacturing for nearly 98% of RVs in production
These functions are administered by a 21 person panel board of directors.
RVIA, in conjunction with various laws, have put together standards covering low voltage systems, installation of wheel and components, and generators. If RV manufacturers meet the requirements set forth by RVIA, they are allowed, and required to put the RVIA Seal of approval on their units.
The RVIA website gives more insight:
“Members of the engineering profession and others associated with the design, manufacture, and inspection of Recreational Park Trailers have been aware of the need for a standard providing for healthful and safe, portable, seasonal housing, arranged and equipped to assure suitable living conditions.” [RVIA.org]
Tip: The first standards began coming out in the 1970s as the popularity of RV grew. If you are buying a used RV before this time, be sure to inspect the RV before purchasing.
Travel with Confidence!
Knowing that these “moving houses” on the road, meet transportation and fire safety laws should be comforting to the avid RVer. Rest assured when you see that RVIA Seal that your RV has been put to the test and you are free to roam!
If you’re looking for the best travel trailers with a RVIA stamp of approval, visit us at www.floridaoutdoorsrv.com.
I’m trying to locate the company that installed the living quarters in my horse trailer. The RVIA number on the badge is 7252847. The trailer was built by Keifer Built but they did not keep a record of who they subcontracted to install the living quarters. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Regards,
Jeff
Give us a call at 772-288-2221. Not sure if we can help, but you would want to talk to the Finance manager I imagine. The best option would be to call the RVIA though.