Plan the next buying step
Use this earlier article as background. Confirm current requirements with the destination authority or agent for the exact product, importer and route. The country EV import-guide directory is a starting point for passenger-EV enquiries; parts, machinery and other vehicle categories require their own assessment.
Keep the shipment scope explicit with the customs clearance and vehicle approval checklist. Have the destination assess the actual vehicle specification and approval route separately from customs release before scheduling road use.
Request a destination-specific sourcing and shipping quotation with the product identity, quantity and delivery scope.
Turkey has emerged as a competitive automotive market for new and used car imports. Even with traditional cars, such as sedans, SUVs, or electric vehicles, if you’re importing automobiles from China, you should understand how customs clearance works, as it’ll save you from paying extra fees and reduce waiting time. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step needed to import to Turkey, including the applicable regulations and the best course of action to ensure a successful import.
1. Pre-Arrival Documentation Preparation (Critical Step)
To ensure efficient customs clearance, all required documents should be prepared at least 2 weeks before vessel arrival.
Required Documents:
Original Bill of Lading (B/L): Provided by your freight forwarder.
Commercial Invoice: Must include product name, HS code, transaction value, buyer/seller info, and Incoterms (e.g., CIF).
Packing List: Clearly stating quantity, VIN numbers, model, color, weight, and volume.
Certificate of Origin (CO): Normally issued by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT).
Vehicle Technical Specifications or Conformity Certificate: Mandatory in Turkey. For new vehicles, obtain from the manufacturer; for used vehicles, 3rd-party inspection may be required.
Export Declaration (China-side): Completed by the exporter before shipment.
Turkish Tax Number and Power of Attorney (for local consignee or customs broker).
Note:
Confirm the correct HS code for your vehicle. Different types of vehicles (e.g., sedans, EVs, hybrids) are subject to varying tax and regulatory categories in Turkey.
2. Appoint an Experienced Turkish Customs Broker
Hiring a knowledgeable customs broker in Turkey is strongly recommended. A professional agent can help you:
Navigate Turkish customs regulations and required certificates
Identify potential risks in your documentation
Estimate customs duties and ensure faster processing
Make sure to define the scope of services and obtain a clear quotation in advance.
3. Port Arrival & Customs Declaration
Once the ship arrives at a Turkish port:
Your freight forwarder will notify the arrival.
Your appointed customs broker submits the import declaration via Turkey’s electronic customs portal.
Turkish customs reviews submitted documents and may request additional information.
4. Physical Inspection & Valuation (Likely Required)
Vehicle imports into Turkey are subject to a high probability of inspection. The customs inspection process includes:
Verification of VIN numbers
Check of model, variant, and condition (new vs used)
Review of documentation for accuracy
Customs Valuation:
Even if the invoice value is accurate, Turkish Customs may calculate the vehicle’s value using its domestic databases or reference pricing. If the declared value is egregiously low, you may need to pay a “top-up” of taxes based on the reassessed value.
5. Tax Calculation & Payment (Most Cost-Intensive Step)
Vehicle imports into Turkey are subject to multiple layers of taxation, which must be paid before customs release.
Main Tax Components:
Customs Duty (Gümrük Vergisi): Usually around 10% of the CIF price. Varies by vehicle type and HS code.
Value-Added Tax (KDV): Standard 18%, calculated on (CIF + customs duty + other applicable charges).
Special Consumption Tax (ÖTV): This is the largest and most complex tax. It is calculated based on engine displacement, fuel type (gasoline, diesel, hybrid, electric), vehicle age, and is applied to (CIF + customs duty).
Small engine/electric cars may enjoy lower ÖTV rates.
Large engine fuel vehicles can be taxed at 60% to 220% or higher.
Additional Charges: Documentation fee, port handling fee, storage charges—usually paid to port authorities and logistics providers.
Once the broker calculates total taxes, you’ll be instructed to pay the amount via official government channels.
6. Customs Release & Vehicle Collection
Upon full tax payment and successful inspection:
Turkish Customs issues a release order.
Your broker arranges for vehicle pickup from the port or bonded warehouse.
Vehicles can then be transported to your dealership or end-user.
7. Final Documentation for Legal Registration
After customs clearance, ensure you receive the following:
Customs Release Document: Proof the vehicle was legally imported.
Tax Payment Receipts: Essential for local registration and resale.
Conformity Documentation: Required for road use approval and number plate issuance.
Conclusion
China’s car imports have significant commercial value, with numerous popular Chinese car brands in the EV, hybrid, and SUV markets. However, Turkish customs and tax rules are complex and specific. You can ensure smooth customs clearance without overpaying by providing the proper documentation, partnering with a reputable customs agent, and making accurate tax projections.
Whether you need to source, inspect, ship, or import Chinese cars to Turkey, Auto From China will provide you with excellent assistance. Get in touch to hear more about how our end-to-end service works for overseas car buyers.
