By Nanci Dixon
Papers in the RV piling up? Corral those owner’s manuals, receipts, and warranties. There is an easy way for paperwork organization! We have been collecting receipts and owner manuals for the last six years in our motorhome. They were bulging out of a bag that came with the RV.
Not only had the information outgrown the rather cute Tiffin bag, but it had become totally disorganized and very hard to move. There were even bungee cords to keep it shut!
I was over it. I dreaded having to search for any papers and found this simple, easy-to-access and organize file tote.
Paperwork organization: A tote!
First, I measured the space I intended to stash it in. I have found out the hard way that measuring first is really important in a space-strapped RV. I started searching online and found what I wanted. Could have used about 1 1/2 inches more file room, but it wouldn’t have fit between the closet support and the dresser drawers!
This is the one I bought, but there are plenty of other options to fit your needs and space.
I used hanging files and file folders to corral the owner’s manuals, receipts, and warranties. It is easy to store and easy to transport Now I can simply retrieve the tote and the files I need. I’m just hoping we don’t buy anything more!
RELATED:
##RVDT2405
I have decided to download electronic versions of all manuals, receipts, etc., even scanning paper copies when PDFs aren’t available. We reduced a 4-drawer filing cabinet to one file box with essential papers, and are working on reducing that.
For appliance manuals, etc., I don’t rely on the manufacturer’s website continuing to have them – I download my own copy and store it in the Cloud.
…and yes, I now have to delete the electronic version as soon as I no longer own the product, or the warranty has expired!
I download as many manuals as possible. I scan all other documents, including receipts and service records and keep them on a thumb drive. These things fade and deteriorate with time. I also take pictures of all the tags showing model and serial numbers. Easy access when needed, plus it helps if and when you decide sell the unit.
The new owner now has it all.
Never thought about the tags, but I scan the purchase receipts and delivery receipts ! Thanks for the tip. All the manuals are either downloaded or scanned to and to a “manual’ folder.
Things like the awning labels, axle labels and door labels are exposed to the weather and deteriorate quickly. Furnace, AC and water heater labels may mean removing panels. Pictures are so much easier.
Believe it or not, not all manuals come with your RV. You will be printing more out over time. Along with other pertinent information. We use a 4″ ring-binder (along with plastic sleeves) for items that are part of the motorhome. Now I have another ring-binder for manuals of items we purchased or bring along with us. My husband refers to the Bible often.
That’s exactly what we did…used a large binder. Much easier to find what we need.
No need for me to carry a tote. If it can’t fit into the pouch the RV manual and warranties came in, chances are I don’t need it.
Being a Canadian, I need to file taxes by April 30, and the last two years I have done them while I was still in the US. 100% online documents, tax software, and filing electronically through the CRA. (Your version of the IRS)
Scan to PDF to google drive and toss the paper!
All my Rv manuals are stored in seven 1″ binders – each has a category “Operating”, Accessories, Environmental, etc.. There are also two with Motorhome Mag. articles torn from the mags. and pertaining to my motor home. The receipts are recorded on an MS Word form, totaled annually; the receipts are kept in a 10″wx12″Lx5″h cardboard box. Easy to find each receipt from the list. I also keep a comprehensive maintenance record and go-no go discrepancy book and checklists.
I’m definitely with the “scanners” group! It saves space and the documents, receipts, etc., don’t fade or get torn or lost. I do have the paper manuals that came with my Lazy Daze, though. The original owner passed them on to me.
Thank you, Nanci! 🙂 Great idea! Thank you! Our current one is getting fullish. It came with the RV. I will keep your storage container in mind as our grows ever fuller. Have a great weekend and safe travels! 🙂
We have the exact same file box. Use it along with the file drawer in our 2019 Tiffin RED 37PA.
I scan most everything into a PDF file and store on a thumb drive located at one of the kids houses along with a copy in my safe deposit box at the bank. If my “paper trail” gets damaged or destroyed, I have backup capability.
When we purchase something with a manual we also make a copy of the receipt (receipts fade over time) and staple everything on the inside cover of manuals.
I use Genius Scan and put resulting PDF in file folders in the cloud. If manual is too big to scan, then I look for a downloadable version. If not available (rare) it goes in same file holder you bought out in the garage.
This app will save your life! 😎 https://dl.tglapp.com/genius-scan