Car Shipping to Istanbul

Shipping Your Car to Istanbul, Turkey: Your Complete Guide

Turkey, a nation bridging Europe and Asia, offers a fascinating destination for vehicle shipping. Whether you’re relocating, importing for business, or planning an extended visit, understanding the process for shipping to ports like Istanbul (and Autoport Izmit) is essential. At Ship Cars Ltd, we specialise in secure and efficient vehicle transport, offering both RoRo and dedicated container shipping options. This guide provides all the essential information for a smooth process.

Why Ship Your Vehicle to Turkey?

People choose to ship vehicles to Turkey for a variety of reasons:

• Relocation: Individuals and families moving to Turkey for work, retirement, or to join family members often need to bring their personal vehicles.

• Business and Commerce: Companies may import vehicles for commercial use, resale, or to support their operations within Turkey.

• Tourism and Exploration: Tourists or individuals planning long-term holidays may choose to ship their vehicle to explore Turkey’s diverse landscapes and rich history.

• Importing Purchased Vehicles: Buying a vehicle in the UK and having it shipped to Turkey.

Our Vehicle Shipping Services to Turkey

We offer flexible and secure solutions tailored to your needs.

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

• Description: This is a highly cost-effective method where your vehicle is driven directly onto a specialised vessel, known as a RoRo ship, and securely stowed for transit. It’s a straightforward process akin to boarding a ferry.

• Ideal For: Operational cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, caravans, and motorhomes that can be driven onto the vessel.

• Key Requirements:

  • The vehicle must be in fully operational condition.

  • Crucially, no personal belongings or any other items are permitted inside the vehicle.

• Restrictions:

  • Electric vehicles are not allowed on RoRo services due to safety regulations.

  • Hybrid vehicles are allowed on RoRo services.

• Learn More: For detailed information, please visit our RoRo Shipping page.

2. Dedicated Container Shipping

• Description: Your vehicle is loaded into its own private shipping container (typically 20ft or 40ft). This method provides the highest level of security and protection for your vehicle and any accompanying items.

• Ideal For:

  • All types of vehicles, including non-running cars, luxury vehicles, classic cars, and motorcycles.

  • Situations where you need to ship personal effects, spare parts, or tools alongside your vehicle.

  • Electric vehicles.

• Key Features:

  • Offers superior protection against theft, damage, and the elements.

  • Allows for secure packing of personal belongings, provided they comply with Turkish import regulations.

  • Suitable for electric vehicles. Electric vehicles typically incur a hazard surcharge of £295 due to battery regulations.

  • Vehicles do not need to be working for container shipping, as they can be winched or forklifted into the container.Container Shipping page

• Learn More: Discover the advantages of container shipping on our .

Shipping Rates to Turkey

We offer competitive pricing for shipping your vehicle to Turkey. These rates are indicative and subject to change based on specific vehicle dimensions, chosen service, and current market conditions. A formal quote will be provided upon request.

RoRo Shipping Rates

• Small Car (e.g., Golf): £645 per vehicle.

• Large Car (e.g., Range Rover): £765 per vehicle.

Transit Time and Sailing Frequency

• Estimated Transit Time: Approximately 15 days from UK port to Istanbul/Autoport Izmit.

• Sailing Frequency: We offer regular sailings, with departures three times a month, ensuring flexibility for your shipping schedule.

Importing a Vehicle to Turkey: Regulations, Duties, and Taxes

Importing a vehicle into Turkey involves adherence to Turkish customs regulations, duties, and taxes. The rules differ significantly based on whether the import is permanent, temporary, or under a Transfer of Residence scheme.

Rules for Importation:

1. Permanent Import:

   • Permanent importation of vehicles into Turkey is generally complex and costly. It often requires the vehicle to meet Turkish and EU standards (as Turkey is part of the EU Customs Union for many goods).

   • Vehicle Age: There are strict age limits for permanently imported vehicles. Generally, vehicles older than three years are subject to higher duties and may face restrictions.

   • Authorities:

     • Turkish Customs and Trade Ministry: (www.ticaret.gov.tr) – This is the primary authority for import regulations, duties, and taxes. Look for sections on “Customs Procedures” and “Vehicle Imports.”

     • Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure: (www.kgm.gov.tr) – For information on vehicle roadworthiness and registration standards.

2. Transfer of Residence (ToR) / Personal Import:

   • Individuals relocating their permanent residence to Turkey from abroad may be eligible to import one personal vehicle duty-free or at reduced rates under specific ToR provisions.

   • Eligibility Criteria:

     • You must have lived outside Turkey for at least two years prior to your move.

     • You must have owned and used the vehicle abroad for at least six months.

     • You need to prove you are establishing permanent residency in Turkey.

     • You must obtain necessary permits and declarations before shipping.

   • Application: This process involves obtaining specific permits and declarations from Turkish consulates or relevant authorities abroad and upon arrival. It is highly recommended to consult with a Turkish customs broker.

   • Authorities: Turkish Customs and Trade Ministry and potentially the Turkish Consulate in your country of origin.

3. Temporary Import:

   • Temporary importation is possible for tourists and individuals staying in Turkey for a limited period (e.g., up to 24 months, extendable in certain cases).

   • Requirements: You will typically need to obtain a “Carnet de Passages en Douane” (CPD) or a temporary admission certificate. This document serves as a guarantee to customs that the vehicle will be re-exported. You will need to provide proof of ownership and insurance.

   • Authorities: Turkish Customs and Trade Ministry and relevant international motoring organisations that issue Carnets.

Inspections and Permits

• Pre-Shipment Inspections (UK):

  • Condition Report: We strongly recommend obtaining a condition report for your vehicle before shipping. This documents its state prior to transit and is vital for insurance claims.

    • Cost: Free of charge if we collect your vehicle; a fee of £35 applies if you deliver the vehicle to us.

• Turkish Customs Examination:

  • Upon arrival at the Turkish port (e.g., Istanbul or Autoport Izmit), your vehicle will be inspected by Turkish Customs officials to verify all documentation and compliance with import regulations.

• Permits:

  • For Permanent Import/ToR: Specific declarations and import permits may be required, often obtained through a Turkish customs broker.

  • For Temporary Import: A Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) is the standard document.

Required Paperwork

Accurate and complete documentation is crucial for a smooth import process into Turkey.

Paperwork Required in the UK:

1. Vehicle Registration Certificate (V5C): Your proof of UK registration and ownership.

2. Proof of Ownership: Bill of Sale or invoice if the vehicle was recently purchased.

3. Identification: Copy of your passport.

4. Shipping Booking Confirmation: Details of your chosen service.

5. Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD): If temporarily importing.

6. Export Declaration: Handled by the shipping company.

Paperwork Required at the Destination Port (Istanbul/Autoport Izmit):

1. Bill of Lading: The primary shipping document.

2. Turkish Customs Declaration Forms: For imported goods.

3. Proof of Ownership: Original V5C, Bill of Sale.

4. Identification: Passport.

5. Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD): If temporarily importing.

6. Invoice: Showing the value of the vehicle.

7. Proof of Insurance: Valid for Turkey.

8. Customs Declarations and Permits: As required for permanent or temporary import.

Duty and Tax in Turkey

Turkey levies significant duties and taxes on imported vehicles. The rates can vary substantially based on vehicle type, engine size, age, and origin.

• Customs Duty: Varies significantly but can be substantial, often between 10% and 50% or more.

• Special Consumption Tax (SCT – ÖTV): This is a major tax component, calculated based on engine capacity and vehicle value. Rates can range from 45% to over 150%.

• Value Added Tax (VAT – KDV): Applied to the sum of the vehicle’s value, customs duty, and SCT. The standard VAT rate is currently 18% or 20%.

• Concessions: For individuals under a Transfer of Residence scheme, certain exemptions or reductions on duties and taxes may apply, but these are subject to strict conditions and require pre-approval.

Important: The total cost of duties and taxes can often double the value of the vehicle. It is highly recommended to consult the Turkish Customs and Trade Ministry or a reputable Turkish customs broker for precise calculations.

Vehicle Collection in the UK

We offer convenient collection services from across the UK to prepare your vehicle for its journey to Turkey:

• Transporter Collection: Your vehicle is safely transported to the port on a specialised trailer.

• Trade Plate Driver: If your vehicle is fully operational and has a valid MOT, it can be driven to the port by our experienced drivers.

Shipping Hybrid and Electric Vehicles

• RoRo: Allowed for Hybrid vehicles.

• Container Shipping: Allowed for both Hybrid and Electric vehicles.

• Hazard Surcharge: Electric vehicles shipped via container typically incur a hazard surcharge of approximately £295 due to safety regulations concerning their high-voltage batteries.

Insurance and Risk Coverage

Protect your vehicle during its journey to Turkey with our comprehensive insurance options:

• Total Loss Cover: Covers complete loss due to fire or water damage during transit.

  • Cost: 1% of vehicle value + shipping cost.

• Comprehensive Cover: Covers cosmetic damage, fire, and water damage.

  • Cost: 1.5% of vehicle value + shipping cost.

  • Eligibility: The vehicle cannot be older than 10 years. A detailed condition report is mandatory for this cover.

• Condition Report:

  • Free of charge if we collect your vehicle.

  • A fee of £35 applies if you choose to deliver the vehicle to us for the condition report.

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

Strict regulations are in place for items shipped to Turkey.

Prohibited Items:

• Hazardous Materials: Including flammable, explosive, corrosive, or toxic substances.

• Illegal Items: Such as drugs, unlicensed firearms, counterfeit goods.

• Certain Antiquities and Cultural Items: Without proper permits.

• Alcohol and Tobacco: Strict limits apply if shipped personally.

• Pornographic Material.

Restrictions:

• Personal Belongings:

  • RoRo: Strictly forbidden inside the vehicle.

  • Container: Permitted within the dedicated container alongside your vehicle, provided they comply with Turkish import laws and are declared. Avoid shipping any prohibited or restricted goods. Heavy items should be secured to prevent movement during transit.

• Fuel: The fuel tank must be nearly empty for safety reasons.

• Vehicle Condition: RoRo requires operational vehicles; non-running vehicles must be shipped via container service.

• Age Restrictions: Permanent imports have age restrictions, generally favouring newer vehicles.

Cost Breakdown

The total cost of shipping your vehicle to Turkey comprises several key elements:

• Shipping Freight: The base cost for RoRo or container service, dependent on vehicle size and type.

• Port Fees: Charges levied at UK and Turkish ports for handling, terminal services, and administration.

• Documentation Fees: For preparing and processing all necessary shipping and customs paperwork.

• Insurance Premiums: Calculated based on the vehicle’s value and the chosen insurance coverage.

• Customs Duties & Taxes: Significant components including Customs Duty, Special Consumption Tax (SCT), and VAT.

• Clearing Agent Fees: For customs brokerage services in Turkey.

• UK Collection/Delivery: If you utilise our transport services.

• Hazard Surcharge: For electric vehicles in containers (£295).

• Condition Report Fee: £35 if you deliver the vehicle to us.

Further Resources

To ensure a smooth and informed shipping process, we recommend consulting these helpful guides:

• RoRo Shipping Explained

• Container Shipping Explained

• How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping

• Prepare Your Car for Export

• How to Avoid Damage with International Shipping

• Top 10 Mistakes People Make During International Car Shipping

Shipping your vehicle to Turkey involves navigating complex customs regulations and significant tax liabilities. It is crucial to research all requirements thoroughly and consider using a professional customs broker in Turkey to ensure compliance and a smooth import process. Contact us today to discuss your shipping needs and receive expert advice.

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please write few lines about port charges, customs clearance in turkey

Port Charges in Turkey

Port charges in Turkey, particularly at major hubs like Istanbul and Autoport Izmit, encompass a range of fees associated with handling your vehicle at the port. These typically include:

• Handling Fees: For moving the vehicle within the port premises.

• Terminal Fees: For the use of port facilities.

• Documentation Fees: For processing paperwork related to your shipment at the port.

• Storage Fees: If your vehicle remains at the port beyond the initial free period.

These charges are usually levied by the port authority and/or the shipping line and are often payable locally upon arrival or included in the overall shipping cost provided by your agent.

Customs Clearance in Turkey

Customs clearance in Turkey is a critical step involving the verification of all import documentation by Turkish Customs officials. This process ensures compliance with all import laws, duties, and taxes.

Key aspects include:

• Documentation Review: Customs will meticulously examine all submitted paperwork, including the Bill of Lading, proof of ownership, identification, and any required permits (e.g., Carnet de Passages en Douane for temporary imports, or import permits for permanent/ToR).

• Vehicle Inspection: A physical inspection of the vehicle may be conducted to match it with the documentation and assess its condition and type.

• Duty and Tax Assessment: Customs will calculate the applicable duties and taxes based on the vehicle’s value, engine capacity, age, and origin.

• Role of a Customs Broker: You do not need customs agent in Turkey for temporary import.

Due to the complexity of Turkish customs regulations and the high duties involved for permanent import, it is highly recommended to engage a licensed Turkish customs broker. They will manage the entire clearance process, liaise with customs officials, ensure all paperwork is accurate, and facilitate the timely release of your vehicle.

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