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So, you’ve been dreaming about that shiny new RV sitting on the dealer’s lot. The price looks good… until you see those extra charges. A $500 prep fee here, a $2,000 dealer prep there. You might be wondering: “Can you buy a new RV without the dealer prepping it?”
Spoiler alert: The answer is more complicated than a simple yes or no. But don’t worry – we’re going to break it all down for you in super simple terms!
Whether you’re a first-time RV buyer or a seasoned road warrior, this guide will help you understand exactly what dealer prep is, why it exists, and most importantly – whether you can skip it and save some serious cash.
Let’s dive in! 🚐✨
What Exactly IS Dealer Prep Anyway?
Think of dealer prep like getting a brand-new phone. Sure, it’s “new,” but someone still needs to peel off the plastic, charge it up, and make sure all the buttons work before you take it home.
Dealer prep (also called PDI or Pre-Delivery Inspection) is when the RV dealership:
- Checks all the systems to make sure everything works
- Fixes any damage that happened during shipping
- Cleans the RV inside and out
- Tests the plumbing, electrical, and appliances
- Connects water lines and vents properly
- Installs batteries (most RVs don’t come with them!)
- Fills propane tanks
- Adjusts slide-outs and awnings
Sounds important, right? That’s because it is! RVs travel hundreds (sometimes thousands) of miles from the factory to your local dealer. Things can get bumped, disconnected, or broken along the way.
The Big Question: Can You Skip Dealer Prep?
Here’s the truth bomb: Technically yes, but practically NO.
Let me explain why with a simple story. Imagine buying a pizza, but instead of the restaurant cooking it, they hand you raw dough, cheese, and sauce. Sure, you saved money, but now YOU have to figure out how to make it edible!
That’s basically what happens when you buy an RV without dealer prep.
Why You Probably DON’T Want to Skip Prep:
1. Your RV Might Not Be Road-Ready
- Water pipes might not be connected
- Electrical systems might not be tested
- The toilet might not even work!
- Safety features could be improperly installed
2. You’ll Void Your Warranty
- Most manufacturers require dealer prep to activate the warranty
- If something breaks and you skipped prep, you’re on your own
- Repair bills can cost thousands of dollars
3. Hidden Damage Won’t Be Found
- Shipping damage is super common
- Without inspection, you won’t know until it’s too late
- By then, the manufacturer might not cover it
4. You’ll Waste Your Own Time
- Do you know how to dewinterize an RV?
- Can you test all 50+ systems yourself?
- Most buyers don’t have the knowledge or tools
But Wait… Aren’t Prep Fees Just Dealer Profit?
Great question! And you’re partly right to be suspicious. Some dealers do inflate prep fees to make extra money.
Here’s What’s FAIR vs. What’s a RIP-OFF:
| Type of Fee | Fair Price Range | Red Flag Price | Can You Negotiate? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dealer Prep/PDI | $300 – $800 | Over $1,500 | Sometimes |
| Doc Fees | $200 – $500 | Over $700 | Rarely |
| Freight/Delivery | Varies by distance | Suspiciously high | Sometimes |
| “Advertising Fee” | Should be $0 | Any amount | YES! |
| “Admin Fee” | Should be $0 | Any amount | YES! |
Pro Tip: If the dealer is charging more than $1,000 for prep on a travel trailer, ask for a detailed breakdown of what they’re actually doing. Make them explain every dollar!
7 Things You MUST Know About RV Dealer Prep
1. 🏭 RV Manufacturers DON’T Prep Your RV
This shocks most people! RV factories build the units and ship them wrapped in plastic. They do NOT:
- Install batteries
- Fill propane
- Test all systems thoroughly
- Clean the interior
- Make final adjustments
That’s the dealer’s job. The manufacturer expects dealers to complete the RV before it reaches you.
2. 💰 Good Dealers Include Prep in Their Price
Not all dealers charge a separate prep fee! Some reputable dealerships build the prep cost into their advertised price. This is actually better for you because:
- No surprise fees at signing
- More transparent pricing
- Easier to compare prices between dealers
Ask the dealer: “Is your advertised price the out-the-door price, or will there be additional prep fees?”
3. 🔍 You Should STILL Do Your Own Inspection
Even if the dealer charges for prep, you need to inspect the RV yourself before driving away. Why? Because dealer prep quality varies WILDLY.
Bring this checklist when you pick up your RV:
✅ Exterior
- Check for dents, scratches, or cracks
- Test all doors and windows
- Make sure awning extends and retracts smoothly
- Inspect the roof for damage
✅ Interior
- Turn on all lights and outlets
- Run water in all sinks and showers
- Flush the toilet (really!)
- Test the stove, oven, and microwave
- Open and close all cabinets and drawers
✅ Mechanical
- Test the air conditioner and heater
- Turn on the refrigerator (both electric and propane modes)
- Extend and retract all slide-outs
- Check battery connections
- Look under the RV for any hanging wires or loose parts
✅ Plumbing
- Fill the fresh water tank
- Check for leaks under sinks
- Test the water heater
- Make sure the black and gray tanks drain properly
4. 🚫 You CAN Negotiate Prep Fees (Sometimes)
Here’s a secret dealers don’t want you to know: Everything is negotiable!
Try these phrases:
- “Can you waive the prep fee if I pay cash?”
- “Your competitor down the road doesn’t charge prep fees. Can you match that?”
- “I’ll buy today if you include prep at no extra charge.”
Best time to negotiate: End of the month, end of the year, or at RV shows where dealers are competing for sales.
5. 🎯 Some Fees Are Legitimate (And You Can’t Skip Them)
While prep fees are sometimes negotiable, these fees are not:
Doc Fees (Documentation Fees): $200-$500
- Covers title transfers and registration paperwork
- Most states allow dealers to charge this
- Usually non-negotiable, but should be clearly disclosed
Sales Tax: Varies by state
- This is going to the government, not the dealer
- Required by law
- No way around it (unless you live in a state with no sales tax!)
Safety Equipment: Varies
- Tow bars, stabilizing hitches, brake controllers
- These are actual products you need
- Shop around for better prices!
6. ⚠️ Watch Out for These SNEAKY Fees
Some dealers try to slip in fees that are total nonsense:
❌ “Market Adjustment Fee” – This is just inflating the price
❌ “Advertising Fee” – Why should YOU pay for THEIR ads?
❌ “Paint Protection Package” – Usually a rip-off
❌ “Fabric Protection Package” – You can do this yourself for $20
❌ “Delivery Fee” to a local dealer – If you’re picking it up, why charge this?
If you see these, RUN! Or at least demand they’re removed.
7. 🏆 Your Best Option: Buy from an Honest Dealer
The easiest way to avoid prep fee drama? Find a dealer with a reputation for transparency.
Look for dealers who:
- Clearly advertise “No Hidden Fees”
- Include prep in their advertised prices
- Have excellent online reviews
- Offer detailed walkthroughs
- Don’t pressure you to buy extended warranties
Red flags:
- Prices that seem too good to be true
- Vague answers about fees
- High-pressure sales tactics
- Bad reviews mentioning “surprise fees”
- Refusing to give you an “out-the-door” price
What About Buying Direct from the Manufacturer?
“Can’t I just skip the dealer entirely and buy straight from the factory?”
Short answer: For most RVs, no. But there are some exceptions!
Why Most RV Brands Don’t Sell Direct:
- Thor Industries (owns Airstream, Jayco, Keystone) → Dealer only
- Forest River → Dealer only
- Grand Design → Dealer only
- Winnebago → Dealer only
These big manufacturers have dealer networks and legally cannot sell directly to you.
Brands That DO Offer Direct Sales:
- Escape Trailers – Full online customization
- Camping World’s CW Direct – Online ordering with dealer support
- Some custom builders – Small specialty manufacturers
The trade-off: Factory-direct often means:
- ✅ Lower prices (no dealer markup)
- ✅ More customization options
- ✅ Direct communication with the builder
- ❌ Longer wait times (custom builds take months!)
- ❌ Limited local service and warranty support
- ❌ You handle registration and paperwork yourself
- ❌ You might still need to arrange your own inspection
How to Get the BEST Deal (Without Skipping Prep)
Follow this game plan to save thousands:
Step 1: Research Like Crazy
- Know the MSRP of your dream RV
- Check NADA guides for fair pricing
- Read reviews of dealers in your area
Step 2: Shop Multiple Dealers
- Get quotes from at least 3 different dealers
- Tell each dealer you’re shopping around (this creates competition!)
- Don’t be afraid to travel a few hours for a better deal
Step 3: Ask for the “Out-the-Door Price”
- This includes EVERYTHING: RV price, prep, doc fees, taxes
- Don’t let them nickel-and-dime you with add-ons
- Get it in writing!
Step 4: Negotiate Smart
- Offer 30-40% below MSRP as your starting point
- Be willing to walk away (this is your SUPERPOWER!)
- Shop at the end of the month or year for best deals
Step 5: Skip the Expensive Add-Ons
- Say NO to extended warranties (most RVers regret buying them)
- Say NO to paint and fabric protection packages
- Say NO to dealer-installed accessories (buy them cheaper online)
Step 6: Do Your Own Final Inspection
- Spend 2-3 hours going through EVERYTHING
- Take photos and videos of any issues
- Don’t sign the final papers until you’re satisfied
Real Talk: What Happens If You Skip Prep?
Let’s say you found a dealer willing to sell you an RV without prep (rare, but possible). Here’s what you’re getting into:
The Reality Check:
🔴 You’ll receive the RV exactly as it came from the factory:
- Wrapped in plastic protective covering
- No batteries installed
- Propane tanks empty
- Water lines possibly disconnected
- Systems untested
- Shipping damage not identified or repaired
🔴 You’ll need to:
- Know how to safely remove protective materials
- Purchase and install house batteries ($100-$500)
- Fill propane tanks at a certified location
- Test every single system yourself (plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling)
- Check and tighten all connections
- Inspect for shipping damage
- Learn the RV systems with NO dealer guidance
- Hope nothing is broken (because your warranty might not cover it)
🔴 Hidden costs you’ll face:
- Your TIME (easily 10-20 hours of work)
- Tools you don’t own
- Mistakes that could damage the RV
- Potential injury from improperly connected systems
- Stress and frustration
Is saving $500 worth all that? For 99% of buyers, the answer is NO.
When It MIGHT Make Sense to Skip Prep
There are a tiny handful of situations where skipping dealer prep could work:
✅ You’re an experienced RV tech or mechanic
- You know RV systems inside and out
- You have the tools and knowledge
- You’re comfortable doing all the work yourself
✅ You’re buying a very basic, simple RV
- Popup campers and basic travel trailers are simpler
- Fewer systems = less that can go wrong
- Still not recommended, but less risky
✅ The dealer is giving you a MASSIVE discount
- We’re talking $2,000+ off for skipping prep
- You have time and skills to do it yourself
- You understand the risks
✅ You’re buying from a private seller
- Used RVs don’t get dealer prep anyway
- You should get a third-party inspection instead
- Much different situation than buying new
For everyone else: Just pay for the prep. Your future self will thank you! 🙏
The Bottom Line: What You Need to Remember
Let’s wrap this up with the most important takeaways:
🎯 Can you buy a new RV without dealer prep?
Technically yes, but it’s a terrible idea for 99% of buyers.
🎯 Should you pay dealer prep fees?
Yes, if they’re reasonable ($300-$800). It’s worth it for peace of mind.
🎯 How do you avoid getting ripped off?
Shop around, negotiate, demand transparency, and walk away from shady dealers.
🎯 What’s the BEST way to buy an RV?
Find an honest dealer, get the “out-the-door” price, negotiate hard, and do your own inspection before signing.
Your Action Plan: What to Do Next
Ready to buy your dream RV without getting scammed? Follow these steps:
1. Make a list of 3-5 dealers in your area (or within driving distance)
2. Call each one and ask: “What is your out-the-door price for [specific RV model], including all prep and doc fees?”
3. Compare the quotes and research each dealer’s reputation online
4. Visit the dealer with the best combination of price and reviews
5. Negotiate firmly but respectfully
6. Before signing, do a thorough inspection using the checklist above
7. Enjoy your new RV adventure! 🎉
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do all RV dealers charge prep fees?
A: No! Some include it in their advertised price. Always ask upfront.
Q: Can I prep the RV myself to save money?
A: You can try, but you risk voiding your warranty and missing important safety checks.
Q: Are prep fees higher at big chain dealers like Camping World?
A: Sometimes. Big chains have higher overhead, but they also have more resources for proper prep.
Q: What if I find damage after I drive away?
A: Document everything during pickup! Take photos and videos. Most dealers will fix issues found within the first few days.
Q: Is it better to buy at an RV show?
A: Sometimes! Dealers compete for sales at shows, but you’ll still need to pick up the RV later for prep and walkthrough.
Q: Should I hire a third-party inspector even with dealer prep?
A: If you’re spending big money (over $50,000), it might be worth the extra $200-$400 for professional inspection.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Fear Stop Your RV Dreams!
Look, buying an RV can feel overwhelming. There are fees, negotiations, inspections, and a million things to learn. But here’s the truth:
Millions of people just like you have successfully bought RVs and are living their best lives on the road. 🚐🌄
Yes, dealer prep fees exist. Yes, some dealers try to overcharge. But with the knowledge you now have, you’re prepared to:
✅ Spot a good deal vs. a rip-off
✅ Negotiate like a pro
✅ Avoid hidden fees
✅ Know when prep is worth paying for
The open road is waiting for you! Don’t let a few hundred dollars in prep fees stand between you and your adventure. Just make sure you’re paying a fair price and getting quality service.
Now get out there and find your perfect RV! 🌟
Sources:
- Go RVing – The RV Purchase Process
- Bish’s RV – Hidden Dealer Fees: The RV Industry’s Dirty Little Secret
- RecNation Storage – Can You Buy an RV Directly from the Manufacturer
- Reddit GoRVing Community – Understanding MSRP, Freight Charge, and Dealer Prep
- Jayco Owners Forum – Pre-Delivery Inspection Information
- Landing Zone Home – Pre-Delivery Inspection Made Easy (YouTube)
- That RV Tech – 5 RV Buying Tips (YouTube)
- Mobile RV Tech Services – Don’t Buy a Lemon RV Inspection Guide (YouTube)
- Last Frontier Outdoors – DON’T Get Scammed At Dealerships (YouTube)
- RV Industry Association – 2023 RV Industry Statistics
