RV Appraisers

FAQ

What are the types of recreational vehicles?

Recreational vehicles fall into two main categories: motorized RVs, which have their own engine, and towable RVs, which are pulled by a separate vehicle.

Understanding which type you own matters for insurance coverage, financing, and valuation purposes. If you need a professional RV appraisal, the RV type directly affects how our appraisers research comparable sales, apply condition adjustments, and determine fair market value.

Motorized RVs

These are self-propelled and driven like a large vehicle:

  • Class A motorhomes: Large, bus-style units built on heavy-duty chassis, typically 26 to 45 feet long and the most spacious option available.
  • Class B motorhomes (campervans): Compact units built on a van body, often with a high or pop-top roof; practical as both a daily driver and a camper.
  • Class C motorhomes: Mid-size units built on a cutaway van or pickup cab chassis, recognizable by the over-cab sleeping area, typically 20 to 30 feet.
  • Bus and cargo conversions: Converted school buses, coaches, or cargo vans fitted out as full-time or recreational living spaces.

Towable RVs

These attach to a tow vehicle and include several distinct types:

  • Travel trailers: The broadest towable category, ranging from small teardrop trailers to full-size units towed via a bumper or frame hitch.
  • Fifth-wheel trailers: Large trailers that connect via a hitch mounted in a pickup bed, often featuring a raised front bedroom section.
  • Toy haulers: Travel trailers or fifth-wheels with a built-in rear cargo garage for motorcycles, ATVs, or other equipment.
  • Pop-up and expandable campers: Lightweight trailers with fold-out tent sections that collapse for towing and open up at the campsite.
  • Truck campers: Detachable camper units that mount directly in a pickup truck bed.
  • Destination trailers: Larger, semi-permanent units designed for seasonal placement rather than frequent travel.

See RV appraisal pricing for how fees are structured across these different RV types, and review our FAQ on whether the IRS considers an RV a home if your appraisal involves a tax-related purpose.