Shipping Goods to Turkey from the USA

Turkey Import Regulations: A Complete Guide for U.S. Shippers

Turkey serves as a key gateway between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, providing a growing market for U.S. exports and a popular relocation destination for individuals and businesses. Whether you’re shipping from the USA for personal or commercial reasons, it’s essential to understand Turkish customs regulations.

This guide explains the import process, documentation requirements, tax rules, and how an experienced international shipping company can reduce your international shipping costs and ensure affordable shipping to Turkey.

Key Facts About Importing to Turkey

The Turkish Ministry of Trade governs customs procedures.

Turkey follows EU-aligned customs regulations with local adaptations.
Imports are subject to customs duties, VAT, and in some cases, Special Consumption Taxes (SCT).
U.S. exporters must provide specific documents for clearance.
Personal effects may be shipped duty-free under relocation rules.

A professional international shipping company can help ensure compliance and prevent delays while lowering your international shipping costs.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to Turkey

1. Appoint a Turkish Importer or Customs Broker

A registered Turkish importer or customs broker is required to clear commercial goods.
The consignee may clear personal effects with the support of an international shipping company.

2. Prepare Required Documents

The following documents are typically needed:

Bill of Lading (BOL) or Air Waybill
Commercial invoice with product value, HS codes, and country of origin
Packing list
Certificate of Origin
Import declaration form
Additional permits for restricted goods (e.g., electronics, chemicals)

For personal effects:

Copy of passport
Turkish visa or residence permit
Inventory list
Proof of relocation/employment
Declaration of non-commercial use

All documents must match exactly, particularly in terms of declared values and HS codes.

3. Understand Customs Duties, VAT, and Exemptions

Imported goods from the U.S. may be subject to:

Customs duties: Typically between 0% and 20%, depending on the product
Value-Added Tax (VAT): Standard rate is 20%
Special Consumption Tax (SCT): Applied to goods like tobacco, fuel, and vehicles

Personal Effects Tax Exemption:

You may import used household goods duty- and VAT-free if:

You’re relocating to Turkey permanently (with a residence permit)
The goods are used, not for resale
They arrive within 6 months of your arrival

An experienced international shipping company will help you calculate your full international shipping cost and identify any applicable exemptions.

Restricted and Prohibited Goods

Restricted Items (Require Special Permission):

Pharmaceuticals, chemicals – Ministry of Health
Electronics and telecommunication devices – Information and Communication Technologies Authority
Food, plants, and animal products – Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry

Prohibited Items:

Narcotics
Obscene materials
Counterfeit goods
Weapons without proper licenses

Shipping Personal Effects to Turkey

If you're moving to Turkey, you can ship used personal belongings duty-free if:

You’re a foreigner obtaining a Turkish residence permit or a returning Turkish citizen
Goods are imported within 6 months of your arrival
You declare the goods as non-commercial and for personal use only

Required Documents:

Passport
Valid Turkish visa or residence permit
Inventory list (in Turkish or English)
Proof of address in Turkey
Customs exemption application

New items or goods not declared correctly may be subject to taxation or confiscation.

Packaging & Labeling Requirements

Consumer products imported to Turkey must comply with national standards:

Labels must be in Turkish
Include product name, origin, usage instructions, and manufacturer/importer details
Metric units required
Expiry or production dates for food, medicine, and cosmetics

All wooden packaging (crates, pallets) must comply with ISPM 15 standards (heat-treated and marked). Non-compliant packaging may be rejected or fumigated at additional cost.

Who Can Help?

Partner With a Licensed Turkish Customs Broker or International Shipping Company

A licensed customs broker or international shipping company can:

Handle customs clearance and declarations
Translate and verify documentation
Advise on tax rates and exemptions
Coordinate port delivery or door-to-door service in Turkey

Choosing professional support ensures affordable shipping and a smooth process.

Final Import Checklist for Turkey

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
Import declaration	All shipments	Must be submitted through Turkish Customs
Customs duties (0%–20%)	Most goods	Based on product classification
VAT (20%)	All imports	Calculated on CIF value + duties
SCT	Alcohol, tobacco, and vehicles	Charged separately where applicable
ISPM 15 compliance	Wooden crates and pallets	Required for sea freight
Residence permit	Personal effects	Needed to qualify for tax exemption
Certificate of Origin	Commercial goods	Often required for customs valuation

Conclusion: Shipping to Turkey from the USA

Turkey’s customs regulations are structured and comprehensive, but with the right preparation, your shipment can clear quickly and efficiently. Whether you're relocating or shipping commercial cargo, correct documentation and compliance are essential.

A professional international shipping company will help you navigate customs, identify potential cost savings, and ensure affordable shipping from the U.S. to Turkey, without the risk of delays or penalties.