Car shipping to Turkey

• Other Cities ▼
  • IZMIR
  • ISTANBUL
  • MERSIN

Shipping Your Car to Turkey | Expert Services from the UK | Ship Cars Ltd.

Ship Cars Ltd. offers specialised vehicle shipping services from the UK to Turkey, providing a reliable and efficient way to transport your car to major Turkish ports. We focus on Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping, a cost-effective and streamlined method for drivable vehicles, with services to key ports like Izmit (Autoport), Izmir, and Mersin. Our expertise ensures your vehicle arrives safely and in compliance with Turkish regulations, whether for temporary import, personal use, or commercial purposes.

Our Car Shipping Services to Turkey

We specialise in RoRo shipping, the most common and economical method for exporting operational vehicles.

1. RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) Shipping:

• Ideal For: Drivable cars, including hybrid vehicles.

• Process: Your vehicle is driven directly onto a specialised RoRo vessel at a UK port and securely stowed within the ship’s dedicated vehicle decks for its journey to Turkey.

• Benefits:

  • Cost-Effective: Generally the most economical option for operational vehicles.

  • Efficient: Streamlined loading and unloading procedures.

  • Convenient: Ideal for cars, SUVs, and other standard road vehicles.

• Restrictions:

  • Electric Vehicles: Are not permitted on RoRo vessels due to safety regulations concerning their high-voltage batteries. For electric vehicles, we would need to explore container shipping options, which may incur a hazard surcharge (e.g., £295).

  • Personal Belongings: You cannot load personal items, spare parts, or any other goods inside the vehicle when shipping via RoRo.

  • Vehicle Condition: The vehicle must be in operational condition and capable of being driven onto and off the vessel independently.

Container Shipping Options:

While our primary focus from the UK to Turkey is RoRo, we can arrange container shipping for electric vehicles or non-operational vehicles. Please see our International Container Shipping page for more details on these services.

Temporary Importation Rules for Vehicles into Turkey

Turkey has specific regulations for temporary vehicle importation, primarily for tourists and individuals not residing in Turkey.

Temporary Importation (Tourists):

• Eligibility: Foreign nationals visiting Turkey for tourism purposes can typically import their personal vehicles temporarily.

• Duration: Vehicles can usually be imported for a period of up to 24 months. This period cannot be extended.

• Documentation Required:

  • Valid Passport: For the shipper.

  • Proof of Ownership: Vehicle registration documents and insurance.

• Restrictions: The vehicle must be for personal use only and cannot be sold, loaned, or used for commercial purposes within Turkey. The vehicle must be exported before the temporary import permit expires.

• Authority: Turkish Customs Directorate.

  • Website: You can find information on Turkish Customs procedures via the Turkish Ministry of Trade website. While direct links can change, search for “Turkish Customs Directorate” or “Temporary Importation of Vehicles” on the Ministry of Trade website (e.g., Ministry of Trade – Turkey).

Permanent Import / Residency:

• Turkey’s regulations for permanent importation of vehicles by residents or those establishing residency are complex and often involve significant duties and taxes, unless specific exemption criteria (like diplomatic status or approved relocation) are met. For most individuals, temporary importation for tourism is the more accessible route for bringing a vehicle into Turkey for a limited period.

Required Paperwork: UK Export & Turkey Import

Accurate documentation is crucial for a smooth shipping process and customs clearance in Turkey.

UK Export Documentation:

• Bill of Lading (BOL): Issued by Ship Cars Ltd. detailing the shipment.

• Proof of Ownership: UK Vehicle Registration Certificate (V5C).

• Purchase Invoice: If applicable, to prove ownership and value.

• Export Declaration: Handled by Ship Cars Ltd. or our agents.

Turkey Destination Port (Temporary Importation) Documentation:

• Carnet de Passages en Douanes (CPD): Essential for temporary imports for tourists. Obtainable from the AA or RAC in the UK.

• Passport: Valid passport of the person importing the vehicle.

• Vehicle Registration Document: Your UK V5C.

• Valid Driving Licence: And International Driving Permit (IDP).

• Proof of Insurance: Valid for Turkey.

• Shipment Booking Confirmation: From Ship Cars Ltd.

Note: For non-tourist or potential permanent imports, the documentation requirements become significantly more complex, involving Turkish residency status, specific tax exemptions (if applicable), and potentially different customs procedures. It is vital to consult with Turkish customs or a local agent for such scenarios.

Why Ship a Vehicle to Turkey?

Turkey’s unique position bridging Europe and Asia, coupled with its growing economy and scenic beauty, makes it an attractive destination for vehicle imports, particularly for tourism and specific commercial uses.

• Tourism: Many travellers wish to explore Turkey by car, either for extended holidays or by driving through on a multi-country road trip. RoRo shipping provides an accessible way to bring your vehicle.

• Key Ports for Access:

  • Izmit (Autoport): A major, modern port facilitating efficient RoRo operations and offering a cost-effective gateway for vehicles entering Turkey. Its strategic location near Istanbul is a significant advantage.

  • Izmir: Another important port city on the Aegean coast, serving as a gateway to western Turkey.

  • Mersin: A large port on the Mediterranean coast, crucial for trade and transit, particularly for vehicles destined for southern and eastern Turkey, or for onward transit to other regions. There is no RORO service to Mersin.

• Convenience: For tourists and businesses, shipping a vehicle can be more convenient and cost-effective than relying solely on rental vehicles for extended periods or for specific operational needs.

• Favourable Transit Times: For key routes like the UK to Autoport, transit times are relatively short, making it appealing for those on a schedule.

Duty and Tax for Temporary Importation into Turkey

For temporary importation under a Carnet de Passages en Douanes (CPD), the typical arrangement is that duties and taxes are effectively deferred, not necessarily waived entirely.

• Carnet Guarantee: The CPD acts as a guarantee to Turkish Customs that the vehicle will be re-exported. If the vehicle is not re-exported within the stipulated period (usually 24 months), significant penalties, duties, and taxes will be payable.

• No Payment Required (for Temporary Import): As long as the vehicle is exported within the permitted timeframe and the Carnet is properly discharged by Customs upon exit, you will not be required to pay import duties or taxes.

• Permanent Import: If you intend to permanently import a vehicle into Turkey, expect substantial customs duties, VAT (known as KDV in Turkey), and potentially other taxes. These rates can be high and are subject to Turkish tax laws. It is essential to consult directly with Turkish Customs or a local import agent for accurate figures for permanent importation.

Estimated Costs and Transit Time

Ship Cars Ltd. offers competitive pricing for RoRo shipping to Turkey.

Estimated Shipping Costs:

• Small Car (e.g., Golf) via RoRo to Autoport: £645.

• Large Car (e.g., Range Rover) via RoRo to Autoport: £765. (These prices are indicative port-to-port costs for RoRo service from the UK to Autoport and do not include costs associated with obtaining a Carnet de Passages en Douanes, UK export de-registration, Turkish customs agency fees, or potential charges if the vehicle is not re-exported on time. Please contact us for a precise, tailored quote.)

Insurance / Risk Coverage:

• Total Loss Cover (Fire/Water Damage): Costs 1% of the vehicle’s value plus the shipping cost.

• Comprehensive Cover: Costs 1.5% of the vehicle’s value plus the shipping cost. This covers cosmetic damage as well.

  • Eligibility: Available only for vehicles 10 years old or newer.

  • Condition Report: A condition report is mandatory for comprehensive cover. This report is provided free of charge if Ship Cars Ltd. collects your vehicle. A charge of £35 applies if you deliver the vehicle to us.

Transit Time & Sailing Frequency:

• Transit Time:

  • To Autoport (Izmit): Approximately 15 days.

  • To Izmir: Approximately 30 days.

  • To Mersin: Transit times can vary; please enquire for specific details.

• Sailing Frequency: We have approximately four sailings per month from the UK to Turkey, offering regular shipping opportunities.

What’s Not Allowed to Ship (Prohibited Items & Restrictions)

When shipping your vehicle to Turkey, please adhere to the following:

• Prohibited Items:

  • Flammable materials, explosives, firearms, ammunition.

  • Illegal narcotics or controlled substances.

  • Counterfeit goods.

  • Any items that contravene Turkish laws or customs regulations.

  • Personal Belongings: Strictly prohibited inside vehicles shipped via RoRo. Any discovered items may be confiscated and may lead to penalties or refusal of shipment.

• Restrictions:

  • Electric Vehicles: Not allowed on RoRo vessels. Must use container shipping.

  • Hybrid Vehicles: Are generally allowed on RoRo vessels.

  • Fuel: Vehicles must have minimal fuel in the tank (less than 1/4 full).

  • Non-Operational Vehicles: Cannot use RoRo service; container shipping is required.

Cost Breakdown: What Contributes to the Price?

The overall cost of shipping your car to Turkey via RoRo includes:

• UK Port Fees: Charges for handling, terminal services, and documentation at the UK departure port.

• Ocean Freight: The primary cost of sea transportation on the RoRo vessel.

• Insurance: Premium for optional marine cargo insurance.

• Vehicle Preparation: Costs associated with ensuring the vehicle is ready for shipping (e.g., cleaning, minimal fuel).

• Documentation Fees: Costs for issuing the Bill of Lading and any necessary export paperwork.

• UK Customs De-registration Fee: A nominal fee for processing the export de-registration.

(Note: The cost of obtaining a Carnet de Passages en Douanes from the AA or RAC is separate. Turkish customs agency fees, potential port charges in Turkey, and any costs associated with re-exporting the vehicle are also additional.)

Preparing Your Vehicle for the Journey

Ensuring your vehicle is properly prepared is crucial for a smooth shipping experience and to comply with regulations.

• Cleanliness: Thoroughly clean the interior and exterior of your vehicle. Remove all personal belongings.

• Fuel Level: Ensure the fuel tank is no more than ¼ full.

• Battery: Ensure the vehicle’s battery is secure and working.

• Drivability: For RoRo, the vehicle must be in drivable condition.

• Documents: Keep copies of all essential documents readily available.

For detailed guidance, please refer to our resources:

• How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping
• Prepare Your Car for Export

Ship Cars Ltd.: Your Turkey Shipping Specialists

Ship Cars Ltd. is your trusted partner for shipping vehicles to Turkey.

• RoRo Specialists: We offer efficient and cost-effective RoRo services to key Turkish ports.

• Experienced Logistics: Our team manages the complexities of international vehicle shipping.

• Transparent Pricing: Clear cost breakdowns, with no hidden fees.

• Customer Support: Dedicated assistance throughout the shipping process.

Helpful Resources:

• For electric vehicles or non-operational cars: International Container Shipping

• Learn how to avoid common mistakes: Top 10 Mistakes People Make During International Car Shipping

• Ensure your vehicle’s safety: How to Avoid Damage with International Shipping

Contact Ship Cars Ltd. today to discuss your vehicle shipping needs to Turkey. Get a personalised quote and benefit from our expertise for a stress-free shipping experience.

Related articles