The two payment structures explained by someone who ran consignment for 9 years
Here's what most RV consignment commission rates Florida guides don't tell you: Florida dealers use TWO different approaches. Understanding both is critical before you sign anything.
How it works: Dealer takes fixed 10-15% of whatever RV sells for
Example: RV sells for $70,000 at 10% = dealer gets $7,000, you get $63,000
Used by: Many larger consignment dealers
How it works: You agree on specific amount you'll receive. Dealer keeps everything above that.
Example: You agree to net $63,000. RV sells for $70,000 = dealer keeps $7,000, you get $63,000 (as agreed)
Used by: Dealers who want negotiation flexibility (my preferred model)
Both can work fine—but the structure affects how quickly your RV sells and how much negotiation leverage the dealer has. This guide explains both models from someone who used net numbers for 9 years.
If you're researching RV consignment commission rates Florida, you're probably seeing numbers like "10-15% commission" everywhere. And that's accurate—for SOME dealers. But it's not the whole story.
I'm Frank Mason. From 2015 to 2024, I operated an RV consignment dealership in Florida. During those 9 years, I worked exclusively on net number agreements, not percentage commission. Why? Because net numbers gave me the flexibility to negotiate and close deals faster—which meant my clients' RVs sold quicker.
Here's what you need to understand: RV consignment commission rates Florida dealers charge come in two distinct structures. Most guides only explain one (percentage commission). That's incomplete information that could cost you thousands or add months to your sale timeline.
This guide breaks down BOTH commission structures, shows real examples using actual RVs I sold, explains which dealers use which model and why, and most importantly—helps you understand what you're really agreeing to before you sign a consignment contract.
If you want to understand RV consignment commission rates Florida dealers charge, here's what you'll learn:
Let's start with the most important thing: understanding the two different commission structures.
When I started my consignment business in 2015, I had to choose: percentage commission (like most dealers) or net number agreements. I chose net numbers, and here's why.
The percentage problem: When you're locked into 10% commission, you can't give up much margin to make a deal happen. Buyer wants $2,000 off? That comes entirely from the seller's proceeds or kills the deal. Both you and the seller want the price as high as possible—which sounds good but actually creates friction.
The net number advantage: When I guaranteed a seller $63,000 net, I could list at $72,000 and have room to negotiate. Market slow? I could take $68,000 and keep $5,000. Market strong? I could hold out for $75,000 and keep $12,000. The seller still got their guaranteed $63,000 either way.
Here's what happened in practice:
Example from 2019: Client had a 2017 Grand Design Momentum fifth wheel. Market value around $58,000. I guaranteed him $52,000 net. Listed at $62,900.
First month: No offers. Market was slow (summer). I knew I needed to move it.
Week 6: Buyer offered $54,500. If I'd been on 10% commission, that offer would've netted seller $49,050. He'd reject it. But on my net number? I could accept $54,500, keep $2,500 for myself, and client still got his guaranteed $52,000. Deal closed week 7.
That flexibility to negotiate quickly is why I preferred net numbers. I could adapt to market conditions, take smaller margins when needed to move inventory, and take larger margins when market was strong. The seller got certainty (knew exact amount upfront), and I got the ability to make deals happen.
Did percentage dealers think I was undercutting them? Sometimes. But my average sale timeline was 78 days vs their 95+ days because I could be more aggressive on price when needed.
Both models can work. But net numbers gave me—and my clients—more flexibility. That mattered in Florida's seasonal RV market where timing is everything.
Understanding RV consignment commission rates Florida requires knowing that dealers use two fundamentally different payment models. Let's break down both with real examples.
How it works: The dealer takes a fixed percentage of whatever the RV sells for. Most percentage-based dealers charge 10-15% depending on RV value, condition, and market.
The key limitation: When dealer is locked into 10% commission, they can't reduce their take to make a deal happen. Buyer wants $3,000 off asking price? That either comes entirely from your proceeds or kills the deal. Both you and dealer want maximum price, which sounds good but reduces negotiation leverage.
How it works: You and the dealer agree on a specific dollar amount you'll receive (the "net number"). The dealer keeps everything above that number—whether it's $1,500 or $25,000 more.
The key advantage: This gives the dealer more flexibility to negotiate and make deals happen. They can take smaller margins when the market is tight ($1,500 in the Fleetwood example) and larger margins when conditions are favorable ($16,000 in the Dutchstar example). A dealer willing to work on net numbers is showing confidence that they know how to position inventory to achieve results for both themselves and their clients.
Completely depends on the dealer and market conditions. Smaller consignment dealers may use net numbers, others use percentage commission. Some use both depending on the RV and situation.
Generally, a dealer working on net numbers can turn deals quicker because they maintain more negotiation leverage. They're not locked into a fixed commission percentage, so they can work various selling scenarios to make the deal happen.
Either structure can work fine—just make sure you understand which one you're agreeing to and get it in writing before signing.
In the next section, I'll show you the hidden fees that apply to BOTH models—costs many dealers don't mention upfront.
Whether dealer uses percentage or net number, these additional fees often apply. Many dealers don't highlight them during initial conversation—you discover them when reading the contract. Here's what to expect:
One-time charge to "onboard" your RV into their system. Covers initial inspection, paperwork, inventory entry.
My approach: I never charged this. Considered it part of doing business. But about 40% of Florida dealers charge $200-$500.
Cost for professional photos of your RV. Quality photos matter significantly for online listings.
My approach: Included in my service (I took all photos myself). Some dealers charge $200-$400 or hire photographer and pass cost through.
Professional cleaning before photos and showings. Some dealers require it, others make it optional.
My approach: Basic cleaning included. If RV needed major detailing, I'd discuss with client—sometimes they preferred to clean it themselves.
If RV doesn't sell within 60-90 days, some dealers start charging monthly storage.
My approach: No storage fees ever. If RV wasn't selling, we'd discuss price reduction, not add fees.
Charge for posting RV on RVTrader, Facebook, dealer website, etc.
My approach: Included. Marketing was part of the service. Some dealers charge $50-$150.
Fee for handling title paperwork, lien payoff coordination, DMV filing.
My approach: Charged $75. This was legitimate work—title coordination with lenders, DMV paperwork, ensuring clean transfer. Fair fee for actual service provided.
This is ON TOP OF the commission (percentage or net number difference). Always ask "what fees beyond commission?" before signing.
Red flag: Dealer who's vague about fees or says "we'll discuss that later." All fees should be clearly stated in writing before you sign consignment agreement.
Fair approach: Some fees are reasonable (title work, professional photos if you want them). But setup fees, storage fees, and advertising fees? Those should be included in dealer's commission, not added on top.
For my first 3 years (2015-2018), I charged more fees than I should have. Here's my confession:
What I charged:
Why I charged them: Other dealers were doing it. I figured if everyone charged fees, it was industry standard. Plus, my margins on net numbers varied—some deals I'd make $2,000, others I'd make $18,000. The fees felt like guaranteed baseline income.
Why I stopped (2019 onward): Client came to pick up his RV after it didn't sell in 6 months. He was frustrated, embarrassed, felt like he'd wasted time. As I handed him his keys, I also handed him an invoice for $575 in fees.
He looked at me and said: "So I paid you $575, my RV didn't sell, and I'm back to square one? What exactly did I get for this money?"
Gut punch. He was right.
I'd taken photos (15 minutes of work). I'd created a listing (30 minutes). I'd processed paperwork at intake (20 minutes). Total: maybe 90 minutes of actual work for $575. That's $383/hour. For work that should've been included in my service.
From 2019 forward, I eliminated setup and photography fees. Only charged $75 for title work if RV actually sold (legitimate service that took real time and had DMV costs).
My advice: Ask dealer to waive setup and photography fees. They're padding. If they refuse, walk away—plenty of dealers include those in their service. Title transfer fee ($50-$100) is reasonable. Storage fees after 90 days? Negotiate that you won't pay them—if RV isn't selling in 90 days, dealer should reduce price, not charge you rent.
Don't let dealers nickel-and-dime you. The commission (whether percentage or net number) should cover their costs. Additional fees beyond reasonable title work are often just profit padding.
Whether percentage or net number, here's how to evaluate if you're getting fair deal or being overcharged:
Typical for: High-value RVs ($150K+), competitive markets, dealers trying to win business
Example: $200K diesel pusher at 8% = $16K commission. Fair for minimal work on high-value unit.
Typical for: Most RVs $30K-$150K, standard service level, most Florida dealers
Example: $80K Class A at 10% = $8K commission. Industry standard, reasonable for full service.
Typical for: Premium service, prime location, strong dealer reputation, difficult-to-sell units
Example: $50K travel trailer at 15% = $7,500. High, but acceptable if dealer has premium lot/service.
Warning: Unless dealer offers truly exceptional service, location, or guarantees, this is too high
Example: $60K fifth wheel at 18% = $10,800. Walk away unless there's extraordinary value proposition.
Harder to evaluate since you don't know dealer's exact margin. But here's how to assess fairness:
Fair net number formula: Market value minus 10-15% = reasonable net
Red flag: Dealer offers net number 20%+ below market value without justification (water damage, age, condition issues). They're padding their margin excessively.
10% of $25K = $2,500. Dealer does same work as $100K RV but makes 1/4 the commission. Many dealers won't accept low-value RVs on percentage. Flat fee $1,500-$2,500 more common.
Sweet spot for percentage commission. Example: $60K RV at 10% = $6K. Fair compensation for dealer's time and risk.
Higher value = more negotiation power. Example: $120K Class A at 9% = $10,800. Reasonable for premium unit.
Very high-value units have leverage. Example: $300K diesel pusher at 7% = $21K. Or negotiate flat fee $15K-$20K regardless of final sale price.
Negotiation tips:
Don't negotiate on: Low-value RVs (under $30K), slow season, older units (15+ years), condition issues. Dealer already taking risk—don't push for lower rates.
Whether dealer charges 10% percentage or keeps $10K on net number, that's money leaving your pocket. Here's the alternative:
Sell RV yourself with professional guidance handling the complex parts. You keep what would've been the dealer's commission.
| Method | Your Time Investment | Professional Support | Net Proceeds (on $100K RV) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consignment (Percentage 10%) | Minimal (2 hours) | Full dealer service | $89,000-$90,000 |
| Consignment (Net Number) | Minimal (2 hours) | Full dealer service | $85,000-$90,000 |
| Private Sale + Consulting | Moderate (15-24 hours) | Strategic guidance | $98,000-$99,000 |
| DIY Private Sale (no help) | High (25-35 hours) | None | $99,000-$99,500 |
Example: $100,000 RV
Example: $50,000 RV
Despite the commission cost, consignment can be right choice if:
But for most sellers, investing 15-24 hours with professional consulting guidance to save $8K-$14K makes financial sense.
In 2021, I had a client with a beautiful 2019 Tiffin Allegro Bus. Market value around $245,000. I guaranteed him net $215,000.
Listed at $258,000. Got solid interest. Buyer offered $235,000 in month 2. I countered $248,000. Buyer came back at $238,000 final offer.
Here's the decision I faced: Accept $238,000 (I keep $23K, client gets his $215K), or hold out for closer to asking.
I held out. Why? Because $23K felt like fair compensation for my work, and I wanted to maximize my margin.
RV sat another 3 months. Finally sold for $241,000 in month 5. I made $26K instead of $23K. Extra $3,000 for me.
But here's what I didn't consider: My client's RV sat on my lot for 3 extra months. During that time, he was paying:
I made an extra $3,000 by holding out. But my client paid an extra $6,210 in carrying costs waiting those 3 months. Net effect: He lost $3,210 because I prioritized my margin over his timeline.
If I'd been on percentage commission, I would've recommended he take the $238K offer (my commission would've been similar either way). But on net number, I was incentivized to hold out for higher price even when it wasn't in client's best interest.
That's the hidden flaw in net number model: Dealer's incentive isn't perfectly aligned with yours. They want highest price to maximize their margin. You might want faster sale even at slightly lower price to stop paying loan/insurance.
After that experience, I started being more transparent with clients: "Here's the offer, here's what I'd make, here's what it'll cost you to wait. Your call."
Lesson: Whether percentage or net number, make sure dealer's incentives align with YOUR priorities—timeline vs price maximization.
Our consulting packages guide you through private sale process while you keep the $8K-$15K that would go to dealer commission. Complete Sales Package ($997) includes pricing strategy, listing creation, buyer screening, negotiation coaching, and closing coordination.
Save $7K-$14K on your RV sale.
View Consulting Packages →Before signing ANY consignment contract (percentage or net number), watch for these warning signs:
Warning sign: Contract says "standard commission" or "competitive rates" without specific number
Why it's bad: Dealer can later claim "standard" means 15% when you thought it meant 10%
Require: Exact percentage (e.g., "10% of final sale price") or exact net number (e.g., "Seller receives $75,000 net")
Warning sign: Contract says "plus applicable fees" without listing specific amounts
Why it's bad: Dealer can add surprise fees at closing you didn't agree to
Require: All fees itemized with dollar amounts in contract before signing
Warning sign: Dealer can sell at any price without your approval
Why it's bad: RV could sell for $20K less than market value without your knowledge
Require: Minimum acceptable price written in contract, or requirement for your approval on any offer
Warning sign: 180+ day exclusive period with no performance clauses
Why it's bad: RV sits unsold for 6 months, you can't remove it without penalty
Require: 90-day initial exclusive with option to extend, or performance clause (if no offers in 90 days, you can withdraw)
Warning sign: $500+ in fees charged before RV even sells
Why it's bad: If RV doesn't sell, you've paid dealer for nothing
Require: All fees contingent on successful sale, or maximum $100-$150 for legitimate costs only
Before signing anything: Have someone review the contract. Spouse, friend, attorney—get second pair of eyes. Commission agreements legally bind you for 3-6 months. Don't sign what you don't fully understand.
Book free 30-minute consultation. I'll review commission structure (percentage or net number), explain what's fair for your RV value, identify red flags in contract language, and help you negotiate better terms. No pressure—just honest guidance from someone who wrote these contracts for 9 years.
Book Free Commission Review →Answers from someone who charged commission for 9 years
Yes, absolutely. Commission is negotiable, especially for high-value RVs ($100K+), popular brands, peak season timing, or when multiple dealers want your business. Start by asking "Is your rate flexible?" Most dealers will negotiate 1-2% if you have leverage.
For net number model, negotiate the guaranteed net amount upward. If dealer offers $80K net on $95K market value, counter with $85K net. They may meet you at $82K-$83K.
Depends on your priority. Percentage (10-15%): More transparent, dealer incentivized to maximize price, your proceeds scale with sale price. Net number: Certainty (know exact amount upfront), dealer has more negotiation flexibility, potentially faster sale.
I preferred net number because it gave me flexibility to make deals happen quickly. But percentage works fine too—just different approaches.
No. Percentage dealers: Range from 8-15% depending on RV value and dealer. Net number dealers: Margins vary widely ($5K-$25K+ depending on market value).
Shop around. Get quotes from 3-4 dealers. Compare not just commission but also fees, exclusive period length, service level, and dealer reputation.
Most common: Setup/intake ($0-$500), professional photos ($0-$400), detailing ($0-$300), storage after 90 days ($0-$250/month), listing fees ($0-$150), title work ($50-$150).
Total potential hidden fees: $300-$1,750 on top of commission. Always ask "What are ALL fees beyond commission?" before signing. Get itemized list in writing.
Depends on context. 15% is high but acceptable if: Premium dealership location, exceptional service/reputation, difficult-to-sell RV (older, niche), or dealer guarantees results.
15% is overpriced if: Standard service, average location, popular RV that will sell easily. In those cases, 10-12% is more appropriate. Don't pay premium rates for standard service.
High-value RVs have more negotiation power. Expect 6-8% percentage commission, or net number that leaves dealer $12K-$25K margin.
Example: $250K diesel pusher → 7% = $17,500 commission. Or net number $225K-$230K (dealer keeps $20K-$25K).
Don't accept standard 10-15% rates on luxury RVs. You have leverage—use it to negotiate lower percentage or higher net number.
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