As leisure tourism continues to diversify in form, camping vacations—characterized by "low density and spacious environments"—have gained widespread popularity among consumers. As a "perfect companion" to camping, recreational vehicles (RVs) have gradually entered the public eye and are increasingly favored. Particularly for imported RVs, their quality and safety are key concerns for port regulatory authorities, as well as a major focus for consumers. Therefore, let's take a closer look at the main customs clearance procedures for imported RVs.

Per Chinas Automotive Industry Standards, RVs are defined as specialized vehicles equipped with insulation and living facilities (e.g., tables, chairs, sleeping accommodations, cooking equipment, storage, sanitation), primarily used for tourism and field staff lodging.

Main categories include motorhomes and travel trailers, distinguished by motorhomes having self-propulsion capability while trailers require towing. Additionally, motorhomes must accommodate ≤9 passengers, and trailers cannot carry passengers during transit.

The main customs clearance process for imported RVs includes: obtaining compulsory product certification or single-vehicle certification, customs declaration, on-site inspection, and safety item testing. Compulsory product certification applies to large-scale imports, while single-vehicle certification is suitable for small-batch customized imports. After passing the on-site inspection and safety item testing, qualified vehicles will be released and issued an "Inspection Certificate for Imported Motor Vehicles."

Imported RVs undergo customs inspection per national standards including Safety Specifications for Motor Vehicles, Road Vehicles - Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), Installation Requirements for External Lighting and Light-Signaling Devices, Technical Requirements for Travel Trailers, Limits of Dimensions, Axle Loads and Masses for Motor Vehicles, andimport and exportMotor Vehicle Inspection Regulations Part 4: Automotive Products.

Inspections cover general items (VIN, model, appearance, product labels, tools, documentation, certification marks) and safety performance (lighting, braking, stability, safety protections, coupling requirements). Customs also examines RV-specific aspects like manuals, bodywork, safety requirements, and coupling specifications.