The market for second-hand motorhomes in Europe has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by a growing demand for flexible mobility, prioritising contact with nature and quieter spaces free from crowds.
Both individuals and companies are increasingly interested in importing vehicles from other European countries, attracted by better prices, a wider variety of models and more competitive conditions.
However, importing a used motorhome within the European Union is not without technical and administrative requirements. One of the key documents in this process is the Certificate of Conformity (COC), which certifies that the vehicle complies with European safety and emissions regulations. Having this certificate greatly facilitates the registration of the vehicle in the destination country and avoids legal complications or additional costs.
In this article, we will review the best options for second-hand motorhomes to import into Europe, taking into account factors such as reliability, availability of spare parts, efficiency and ease of approval thanks to the existence of the COC.
How to choose the best motorhome?
If you have a second-hand dealership, choosing the best motorhomes to offer is no easy task.
Although it would be ideal to work with a mechanic, here is a list of things to consider:
- The condition of the vehicle: check the chassis, roof and condition of the interior, faults and previous maintenance, repairs, MOT and mileage.
- Offer the most reputable models.
- Have a wide range on offer, prioritising the most sought-after types: semi-integrated, integrated or campervans.
- Approval and regulations: it is essential that they have the European Certificate of Conformity to facilitate import, distribution and registration.
- Ease of refurbishment: some motorhomes allow for easy improvements: changing upholstery, solar panels, new batteries, etc., increasing their value.
- Profit margin: at least 15-25% margin on the total cost (including refurbishment).
As a private user, choosing the ideal motorhome is not a question of finding ‘the best on the market’, but of identifying the one that best suits your lifestyle, your travel plans and your specific needs.
Travelling as a couple is not the same as travelling with children, moving mainly around cities as opposed to touring rural routes, or spending sporadic weekends on the road as opposed to living long periods on wheels.
Some key factors to consider when choosing a motorhome are:
Size and interior layout: Compact motorhomes offer agility and lower fuel consumption, ideal for solo travellers or couples, while awnings or integrated models offer more space and comfort for families.
Number of approved seats: It is essential to check not only how many people can sleep, but also how many can legally travel with a seat belt.
Autonomy and equipment: If you plan on extended stays without a mains connection, you will need a good water capacity, auxiliary battery, independent heating or solar panels.
Ease of maintenance and spare parts: Popular models in Europe tend to have greater availability of technical services and spare parts, which is key in the second-hand market.
Presence of the Certificate of Conformity (COC): For those importing from another European country, this document is essential to ensure that the vehicle can be registered without complications in the country of destination.
The key is to define your priorities before you start looking, so you don't get carried away by aesthetics or price alone.
A good choice is one that allows you to travel comfortably, safely and within your means.
Motorhomes for import
Second-hand motorhomes are an excellent option for trying out your first road trip, travelling without limits, staying in incredible natural spaces and spending long periods of time in them.
If you have a second-hand motorhome dealership, choosing which ones to offer is not always an easy task.
Below is a list of the best-selling and highest-rated motorhomes in Europe and the United States.
German motorhomes
- Sunlight: Sunlight motorhomes stand out for their value for money, functional design and durability. The T series (semi-integrated) and A series (cabover) are particularly well known, both with Ford engines.
- Weinsberg: One of the classics on the market. Depending on the model, they are available with Fiat, MG or Ford engines. They stand out for their reliability and efficiency on the road. We recommend the models in the CaraCompact line.
- AC Frankia: built on Fiat and Mercedes chassis, AC Frankia motorhomes guarantee reliable performance and a comfortable and safe travel experience. For those looking for high-end models, we recommend the Titan and Platin models.
- Bürstner: the perfect combination of modern design and practicality. Built on Fiat and Mercedes chassis, its most iconic model is the Lyseo TD Privilège.
- Knaus: The Knaus brand offers reliability and comfort on the road. The SKY TI and LIVE TI models stand out for their functionality and durability.
- Hymer: Undoubtedly one of the best-known and most prestigious brands on the German market. Built on Mercedes and Fiat chassis, its most iconic models are the B-Class and Exsis.
Italian motorhomes
- Roller Team: The Zefiro and Kronos series are its most popular models, especially for group travel. This brand seeks to maximise space with highly functional, useful and comfortable designs.
- McLouis: One of the youngest and most affordable brands, it has managed to strike a balance between modern, high-quality and affordable finishes. Like the previous brand, it is part of the Trigano Group. Its best-rated models include the Mc4 series and the Glamys series.
- Laika Caravans: A brand renowned for its tasteful interior design and high-quality finishes. Its best-known models are the Ecovip and Kreos, equipped with Fiat chassis.
- Mobilvetta: With high-end finishes and Fiat and Mercedes chassis, Mobilvetta motorhomes are distinguished by their high-end finishes, smooth driving and reliability.
French motorhomes
- Chausson: Founded in 1903, it is one of the classic European brands. Also part of the Tribago Group, it perfectly blends innovation, design and comfort. Chausson models are built on Ford, Peugeot or Fiat chassis. Its most popular models are the Flash and Titanium series.
- Pilote: Another of the most recognised brands in Europe, it stands out for its minimalist, modern and functional designs. Built on Fiat and Mercedes chassis, they are an excellent choice in terms of reliability and durability. Galaxy and Pacific are two of its most acclaimed AC models.
- Rapido: Another long-standing brand is Rapido, renowned for the quality of its materials, ingenious designs and driving safety. With Mercedes and Fiat chassis, its most highly rated models are Distinction and Series 8.
Other motorhome brands
- Benimar: Spanish motorhome brand backed by the Trigano Group. Its models, with Fiat and Ford chassis, stand out for their simple yet versatile and functional design. Their spaces are designed to maximise storage capacity with multifunctional furniture.
- Adria: Founded in Slovenia, it features a modern and practical design. Built on Fiat, Mercedes and Citroën chassis, this brand has managed to combine innovation and quality finishes at competitive prices.
Imported North American motorhomes (RV)
The United States has a deep-rooted culture of motorhome travel, possibly influenced by the vastness of its geography. That's why we couldn't leave out such well-known brands as these:
- Forest River: This is the best-selling American brand. Its models are designed to withstand extreme road conditions, making them a good choice for the more adventurous.
- Airstream: A classic motorhome. Slightly more expensive than average, its models stand out for their quality finishes, innovation and durable materials.
- Newmar: This brand is also slightly more expensive than the market average, but its designs are intended for long stays. The limited space of a motorhome will not prevent you from living with all the comforts of a normal home.
- Winnebago: This brand has understood the needs of its users, with a price range to suit all budgets. Even the most affordable Winnebago models do not compromise on innovative design and quality materials.
How much is a second-hand motorhome worth?
The price of a used motorhome in Europe varies depending on the type, year, condition and equipment:
Basic campervans: from 10,000 to 20,000 euros.
Professional/modern campervans: between 25,000 and 70,000 euros.
Class C motorhomes (semi-integrated or capuchin): 30,000 to 90,000 euros.
Class A (large or luxury integrated): from 50,000 to over 150,000 euros.
