Should I Trade, Sell, or Consign?
Published on May 12, 2025
Should I Trade, Sell, or Consign My RV?
Thinking about getting a different RV? Maybe your family has outgrown your camper, or maybe you’re just ready for something new. If you already own an RV, there are three main ways to move on: trade it in, sell it yourself, or consign it through a dealership. Each option has pros and cons, and this guide will help you choose the one that fits your needs.
Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can feel confident in your next step.
Trade It In – Fast and Simple
Trading in your RV means you bring it to a dealership and they give you a value for it. That value goes toward your next RV purchase.
- Easy: No need to take photos, list it online, or meet buyers.
- Quick: The dealership does all the work.
- Safe: No strangers coming to your home.
- Cash Trade: Arrkann is one of the few dealerships that offer cash for Used RVs.
“If you want a hassle-free experience with money back in your pocket fast, trading in is a great choice.”
But keep in mind:
- You might get less money than if you sold it yourself.
Sell It Yourself – More Money, More Work
Selling your RV privately means you list it online, talk to potential buyers, and handle the sale on your own.
- Best value: You can set your own price and negotiate.
- Full control: You choose how and when to sell it.
“You’ll likely make more money, but it takes more time and effort.”
Things to consider:
- You’ll need to clean and fix up your RV to get top dollar.
- You'll need good photos and a strong description.
- You’ll be in charge of answering calls and setting up showings.
- Safety matters: Always meet in public places or bring someone with you.
Consign It – Best of Both Worlds?
Consignment means you leave your RV at a dealership, and they sell it for you. Once it sells, you get paid (minus a fee).
- Less work: The dealership handles the marketing and paperwork.
- More exposure: Your RV is listed on the dealer’s website and lot.
- Expert sales team: Pros handle the questions and negotiations.
“Consignment is a great option if you want help selling without doing it all yourself.”
Keep in mind:
- The dealership takes a percentage of the final sale price.
- Your RV may sit on the lot for a while before it sells.
- Some consignment programs have rules (like minimum pricing or required inspections).
How to Decide: Ask Yourself These Questions
- How fast do I want to move on from my RV? → Go with trade-in if you're in a hurry.
- Do I want the most money possible? → Selling privately may be best.
- Do I want help, but still want good value? → Consignment could be perfect.
- Am I buying another RV right away? → Trading it in might save time and paperwork.
What’s Your RV Worth?
Before you decide, it helps to know how much your RV is worth. You can:
- Check sites like RVTrader or Kijiji to see what similar RVs are listed for.
- Get a free trade-in estimate from a dealership.
- Ask an RV specialist for a professional appraisal.
Contact us today for a free trade or consignment estimate!
Tips for Selling (No Matter Which Route You Choose)
- Clean it inside and out: First impressions matter.
- Fix small problems: A working light or leak-free tap can make a big difference.
- Have your documents ready: Registration, maintenance records, and manuals.
- Be honest: If there are issues, let the buyer know.
Bonus: Want to Browse a New RV?
If you're thinking about getting something newer or bigger, we can help with that too!
Conclusion
Whether you trade, sell, or consign, there’s no wrong answer—just what works best for you. Think about your time, your budget, and your comfort level with doing the work yourself.
And if you need help along the way, ArrKann is here to guide you!
Visit us online or get in touch to ask questions, get a quote, or schedule a consignment drop-off.
“You don’t have to figure it out alone—we’re here to help every step of the way.”