Imported caravan trailers must conform to DOT Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) applicable to trailers, and units intended for permanent or semi-permanent habitation may also fall under HUD's Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards. Importers should confirm compliance certification before shipment, as non-conforming units can be refused entry or require costly modifications.

Classification as a caravan-type trailer depends on the unit's principal design and purpose — housing or camping. A trailer with mixed features (living quarters plus cargo space) may be reclassified under a goods-transport trailer heading if the cargo function is deemed primary, so the design specifications and marketing documentation should clearly support the intended classification.