The Hidden Fees to Avoid When Buying an RV
Buying an RV is an exciting experience, but if you’re not careful, hidden fees can turn your dream purchase into a financial headache. Let’s break down the most common hidden fees you may encounter — and how to avoid them by working with a transparent dealership.
What Are Prep Fees and Destination Fees?
These two charges are among the most common—and confusing—fees in the RV industry:
Prep Fees: Dealers sometimes charge hundreds or even thousands of dollars for “preparing” the RV. This may include simple tasks like filling the propane, checking tire pressure, or cleaning the unit — tasks many reputable dealers include as part of the sale.
Destination Fees: This is often a shipping fee charged by the manufacturer to the dealer. Some dealers pass it directly to you as an added charge on top of the advertised price.
The truth: Many of these tasks are part of a dealership’s responsibility and should already be included in the price you see.
How to Spot Unnecessary Dealer Markups
Some dealers will advertise a low sticker price to grab your attention, but once you sit down to sign, extra charges start stacking up. Watch out for:
Administrative or paperwork fees
Inspection or certification fees (often already completed)
Dealer-installed accessories you didn’t request
“Mandatory” protection packages
Always ask for a full breakdown of the final price before you agree to anything.
Questions to Ask Before You Sign
Is the price I see the final price?
Are there any prep, destination, or documentation fees added?
What services are included in the sale price?
Are any dealer-installed options mandatory?
Can you show me a full, itemized purchase agreement?
A reputable dealer will have no problem answering these questions up front.
Why Our Dealership Doesn’t Charge These Fees
At Blue Star RV, we believe in honest, upfront pricing.
No hidden prep or destination fees
Every used RV we sell has already gone through our full inspection process. We make sure it's road-ready and fully functional — without tacking on unnecessary fees at the end.
The Bottom Line
Hidden fees can easily cost you thousands if you’re not paying attention. Do your homework, ask the right questions, and work with a dealership that values trust and transparency. That’s exactly what we offer at Blue Star RV.