the United States
Website customs the United States
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: US
Country Alpha-3 code: USA
Country numeric code: 840
GDP: USD 25.463 trillion (2023)
Currency: US Dollar
Inhabitants: 335893238
Language: English
Freight forwarders in the United States
Seaports in the United States
Airports in the United States
Shipping between the United States and Turkey
Shipping between the United States and Turkey involves a complex array of processes, from pre-import considerations to navigating customs clearance. This comprehensive guide explores key aspects such as costs, shipping methods, major routes, and risk management, aiming to inform and assist users in making efficient shipping decisions while optimizing their logistics and supply chain strategies.
Below you can also request multiple quotes from freight forwarders for your shipment.
Pre-import considerations
First of all, you should know the product class of what you are shipping. Determine the correct Harmonized System (HS)Â code for your goods, as this dictates applicable customs duties and taxes.
If you are importing from the United States to Turkey , check the Customs Tariff from Turkey. If you are importing from Turkey to the United States, check the Customs Tariff from the United States.
Make sure you understand all the product regulations, certifications, labeling requirements, and potential import restrictions or tariffs specific to your product category. A specialised freight forwarder can help you with this process.
Customs Clearance Process:
Customs clearance between the United States and Turkey involves several critical steps to ensure smooth transit. For imports into the United States, shippers must submit an entry manifest, bill of lading, and commercial invoice to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Additionally, a customs bond is required, and goods may be subject to inspection. Once all documentation is verified and duties are paid, goods are cleared for entry.
In Turkey, the process is managed by the Turkish Customs Authority. Importers must provide a completed customs declaration form, commercial invoice, bill of lading, and any required import licenses. Goods may undergo inspection, and duties and taxes must be settled before clearance. Both countries emphasize compliance with regulatory standards and accurate documentation to prevent delays. For more detailed guidance, the U.S. CBP website and the Turkish Ministry of Trade provide extensive resources on customs procedures.
Costs to consider
When shipping between the United States and Turkey, various costs must be considered to ensure accurate budgeting and avoid surprises. Key cost factors include:
- Shipping Fees: This includes freight charges for sea, air, or land transport. Rates vary based on the shipping method, weight, and volume of the cargo. Major carriers like DHL, FedEx, and UPS provide detailed rate calculators on their websites.
- Customs Duties and Taxes: Both countries impose import duties and taxes. In the U.S., the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) determines duty rates (HTSUS). In Turkey, the Ministry of Trade provides duty rates and tax information (Turkish Ministry of Trade).
- Insurance: Cargo insurance is essential to protect against potential loss or damage during transit. Costs depend on the cargo value and coverage level.
- Handling and Port Fees: These fees cover loading, unloading, and handling at ports. Each port authority, such as the Port of Los Angeles or Port of Istanbul, publishes its fee schedules.
- Storage Fees: If goods are stored at a port or warehouse, additional fees apply. These are based on the duration and volume of storage.
Considering these costs ensures a more accurate financial plan for international shipping.
Sources:
Saving on Shipping Costs
Saving on shipping costs between the United States and Turkey requires strategic planning and careful comparison of options. Here are key strategies:
- Compare Quotes: Always compare quotes from multiple carriers to find the best rates. Platforms like Zendeq can help you obtain competitive quotes from reliable shipping companies.
- Consolidate Shipments: Combining multiple shipments into one can reduce costs by taking advantage of bulk rates.
- Optimize Packaging: Use the smallest and lightest packaging possible to minimize dimensional weight charges.
- Choose the Right Shipping Method: For non-urgent shipments, sea freight is usually cheaper than air freight. Consider the delivery timeline and cost-effectiveness.
- Negotiate Rates: For regular shipping needs, negotiate long-term contracts with carriers for discounted rates.
Sending Your Package: USA to Turkey and Vice Versa
For Businesses:
Major Carriers:
- DHL Express: Known for its global reach and reliable service, DHL offers express shipping options with detailed tracking.
- FedEx: Provides international shipping solutions with various service levels, including priority and economy options.
- UPS: Offers comprehensive shipping services with guaranteed delivery times and customs brokerage.
Steps:
- Prepare Documentation: Ensure all required documents, such as commercial invoices, export declarations, and any necessary permits, are completed accurately.
- Choose the Right Service: Depending on the urgency and budget, select the appropriate service level (e.g., express, standard).
- Customs Clearance: Utilize the carrier’s customs brokerage services to navigate import/export regulations smoothly.
For Individuals:
Major Carriers:
- USPS: The United States Postal Service provides cost-effective international shipping options for individuals.
- Turkish Post (PTT): Offers international mail and package delivery services, often at lower rates compared to private carriers.
- DHL, FedEx, UPS: These carriers also offer services for individuals, though they may be more expensive than postal services.
Steps:
- Package Preparation: Securely pack the item and clearly label the package with the recipient’s details.
- Select Service: Choose from various service levels based on the desired delivery time and budget.
- Complete Customs Forms: Fill out the necessary customs declaration forms to avoid delays.
Tracking and Delivery:
- All major carriers provide online tracking, allowing senders to monitor the package’s progress from pickup to delivery.
- Delivery times vary based on the service level chosen and customs clearance efficiency.
For competitive quotes and reliable shipping options, platforms like Zendeq can connect businesses and individuals with trusted carriers.
Sources:
Great Online Resources for USA-Turkey Shipping
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP): Provides detailed information on customs regulations, import/export requirements, and procedures.
- Turkish Ministry of Trade: Offers comprehensive guidelines on import and export procedures, tariffs, and customs regulations in Turkey.
- DHL Express: One of the leading international carriers, DHL provides extensive resources on international shipping, including customs, documentation, and tracking.
- FedEx: Provides detailed information on international shipping services, customs clearance, and shipping tools.
- UPS: Offers a wealth of resources on global shipping, including customs brokerage, shipping guides, and tracking services.
- United States Postal Service (USPS): Provides international shipping services and tools for individuals and businesses, including customs forms and pricing.
- Turkish Post (PTT): Offers information on international mailing and shipping services from Turkey, including rates and tracking.
- Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS): An official resource for determining tariff classifications and duty rates for goods imported into the U.S.
- Port of Los Angeles: Provides information on port operations, fees, and shipping logistics.
- Port of Istanbul: Offers resources on shipping routes, port services, and logistics.
Knowledge base
Turkey
Website customs
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: TR
Country Alpha-3 code: TUR
Country numeric code: 792
GDP: USD 906 billion (2023)
Currency: Turkish Lira
Inhabitants: 85372377
Language: Turkish
Freight forwarders in Turkey
Turkey has no freight forwarders
Seaports in the United States
Airports in Turkey
Turkey
Website customs
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: TR
Country Alpha-3 code: TUR
Country numeric code: 792
GDP: USD 906 billion (2023)
Currency: Turkish Lira
Inhabitants: 85372377
Language: Turkish
Freight forwarders in Turkey
Turkey has no freight forwarders
Seaports in the United States
Airports in Turkey
the United States
Website customs the United States
Government website
Website chamber of commerce
Country Alpha-2 code: US
Country Alpha-3 code: USA
Country numeric code: 840
GDP: USD 25.463 trillion (2023)
Currency: US Dollar
Inhabitants: 335893238
Language: English