
How to choose a reliable TurkeyThe MaritimeThe agent?
Based on 20 years of international trade experience, we recommend screening agents from four dimensions:
- International certification qualifications: Must hold international freight certifications like FIATA, IATA, and locally require T?R Carnet license in Turkey
- Customs clearancePractical experience: Require cases of handling special declarations for Gümrük Müdürlü?ü (Customs Directorate) in the past 3 years
- Service network coverage:
- Must cover major ports like Istanbul Port and Mersin Port
- Recommend choosing agents with customs clearance offices in Ankara
- Emergency response capability: After the 2024 Turkish customs system upgrade, verify the agents EDI data connection efficiency
What items are included in shipping agent fees?
The typical cost structure for Turkey shipping routes in 2025 is as follows:
- Basic seaTransportation expenses: Currently 20GP container Shanghai-Istanbul approximately $1800-$2200
- Local surcharges:
- THC (Terminal Handling Charge): $120-$150/container
- Gümrük Depozito (Customs deposit): 0.5%-1.5% of cargo value
- Value Added Services: EXW to DDP conversion service starts from $400
Special note: Starting from January, 2025, Turkey will impose?evre Vergisi(Environmental Tax) on certain goods, requiring advance cost calculation.
What are the key considerations for Turkish customs clearance?
Based on recent customs dispute case analysis, special attention should be paid to:
- Document compliance:
- Commercial invoices must include Turkish product descriptions
- Certificate of Origin requires authentication by Turkish embassies/consulates in China
- Product special requirements:
- Textiles require TAREKS (Tracking System) registration number
- Electronic products must comply with TüRKAK certification standards
- Duty calculation basis: Customs may use the higher value between CIF price or domestic selling price for taxation
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many days does sea freight to Turkey usually take?
A: Base transit time from Shanghai Port to Istanbul is 23-28 days, but 5-7 days customs clearance buffer should be reserved.
Q: Are there any special requirements for LCL cargo?
A: Precise dimensions and weight of each piece must be provided, and single shipment value must not exceed $20,000 (new regulation in 2025).
Q: How to resolve customs detention of goods?
A: It is recommended to choose agency companies that provideGümrük Takip Hizmeti(Customs Tracking Service) agents can provide real-time processing updates.
Q: Can we appoint destination port agents ourselves?
A: According to Turkeys revised Maritime Law in 2024, foreign cargo owners must clear customs through local enterprises holding Mersis registration numbers.
Risk prevention suggestions
- Require agents to provideNavlun Sigortas?(Marine Liability Insurance) certificate
- When prepaying 30% freight, confirm the agent provides Ticaret Sicil Gazetesi (Commercial Registration Gazette) copy
- It is recommended to specify the upper limit of demurrage fees in the contract