Car Shipping from the UK to Izmir, Turkey — Aegean Port Services

Ship Cars Ltd ships vehicles from the UK to Izmir, Turkey via RoRo and container to Alsancak Port, with approximately 21-24 days transit and one sailing per month. RoRo starts from £981 for a standard car. Izmir is Turkey’s primary Aegean gateway, serving the coast from Bodrum to Cesme and Kusadasi. Temporary imports require a Carnet de Passages en Douanes (CPD) — Turkey’s Special Consumption Tax (ÖTV) makes permanent import very expensive for most vehicles. We handle all UK export documentation.

What Port Does My Car Arrive at in Izmir?

Vehicles shipped to Izmir arrive at Alsancak Port (Alsancak Limanı), also known as the Port of Izmir, located in the Alsancak district approximately 3 kilometres northwest of Izmir city centre. The port is operated by Limak İzmir Uluslararası Liman İşletmeciliği A.Ş and handles both RoRo vehicle discharges and container terminal operations.

On arrival at Alsancak Port:

• Turkish customs (Türkiye Gümrük ve Ticaret Bakanlığı) conduct the vehicle inspection and documentation check

• For temporary imports, your Carnet de Passages (CPD) is stamped at the port

• Your Turkish clearing agent coordinates vehicle release

• Typical port clearance: 3–7 working days for temporary imports with a valid CPD

Onward delivery from Alsancak Port:

• Izmir city centre: 3km — approximately 10 minutes

• Cesme: approximately 85km — 1 hour

• Kusadasi: approximately 80km — 1 hour

• Bodrum: approximately 240km — 2.5 hours

• Ephesus (Selcuk): approximately 80km — 1 hour

• Ankara: approximately 600km — 6 hours

Should I Ship to Izmir (Alsancak) or Autoport Izmit?

Practical guidance: If your final destination is the Aegean coast (Izmir city, Bodrum, Kusadasi, Cesme, Ephesus area), ship to Izmir (Alsancak) — it is your closest port and avoids expensive and time-consuming overland transport from Autoport. If you are moving to Istanbul, Ankara, Bursa, or northwest Turkey, Autoport Izmit is faster, cheaper, and better connected.

What Is the Carnet de Passages (CPD) for Turkey?

Most UK customers shipping a car to Izmir for personal use obtain a Carnet de Passages en Douanes (CPD) from the AA or RAC before departure. The CPD allows duty-free temporary import into Turkey for up to 24 months, provided the vehicle is re-exported before expiry. It is stamped by Turkish customs at Alsancak Port on entry and must be stamped again on departure. Obtain the CPD before your vehicle sails — it cannot be arranged retroactively.

What Are Our Vehicle Shipping Services to Izmir

We offer flexible and secure solutions tailored to your specific shipping needs.

At Ship Cars, we offer a range of vehicle shipping options, from Roll on Roll Off (RoRo) which is highly cost effective and Full Container Load (FCL) when shipping luxury, electric or hybrid cars.  

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

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car from the UK to Izmir?

We offer competitive pricing for shipping your vehicle to Izmir. 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): £981 per vehicle.

• Large Car (e.g., Range Rover): £1267 per vehicle.

Transit Time and Sailing Frequency

• Estimated Transit Time: Approximately 21-24 days 

• Sailing Frequency:  Departures once a month 

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).

• Turkish Customs Examination:

  • Upon arrival at the Turkish port (e.g., Izmir), 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.

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. Export Declaration: Handled by the shipping company.

Paperwork Required at the Destination Port (Izmir):

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. Invoice: Showing the value of the vehicle.

6. Proof of Insurance: Valid for Turkey.

7. 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): Turkey’s standard VAT (KDV) rate is currently 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.

• Our flexible and secured collection services include Trade Plate-Insured driven service as well as transporter or recovery options. 

• Marine Insurance is a strategic necessity for vehicles during transit. Total Loss Cover: 1% of declared vehicle value. Comprehensive Cover: 1.5% of vehicle value.  

Cost Breakdown For Car Shipping

The total cost of shipping your vehicle to Izmir 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.

Ship Your Car To Izmir With Ship Cars Ltd

Shipping your vehicle to Izmir 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. Contact us today for further information or visit our sailing schedule and get an instant quote to schedule your car shipping with us.

 We also provide an efficient, seamless and smooth car shipping to:

Autoport Izmit

Istanbul

Mersin

Frequently Asked Questions — Car Shipping to Izmir

Q: How much does it cost to ship a car from the UK to Izmir?

RoRo shipping from the UK to Izmir starts from £ 981.7 for a standard small car (e.g. VW Golf) and £1267.52 for a large vehicle (e.g. Range Rover). These prices cover UK port to Alsancak Port, Izmir sea freight only. Turkish customs duty, Special Consumption Tax (SCT/ÖTV up to 150%+), VAT (20%), Carnet de Passages costs, and clearing agent fees are additional.

Q: How long does car shipping from the UK to Izmir take?

Transit from the UK to Izmir takes approximately 21-24 days, with one sailing per month. This is longer than Autoport Izmit (approximately 15 days) due to Izmir’s more southerly Mediterranean routing. Including UK collection and Turkish customs clearance, allow 8–10 weeks total from booking to your vehicle being available.

Q: What is the difference between shipping to Izmir and Autoport Izmit?

Izmir (Alsancak Port) is the best choice for destinations on the Aegean coast — Bodrum, Kusadasi, Cesme, Ephesus — and takes approximately 30 days from the UK. Autoport Izmit is the best choice for Istanbul, Ankara, and northwest Turkey — it takes only 15 days and has more frequent sailings but is 480km from Izmir. Choose your port based on your final Turkish destination.

Q: Do I need a Carnet de Passages (CPD) for Izmir?

Yes, for temporary imports. The Carnet de Passages en Douanes (CPD) is issued by the AA or RAC in the UK and allows duty-free temporary import into Turkey for up to 24 months. It is stamped at Alsancak Port on arrival and must be re-stamped on departure from Turkey. Obtain the CPD before your vehicle sails — it cannot be arranged after departure.

Q: What port does my car arrive at in Izmir?

Vehicles arrive at Alsancak Port (Alsancak Limanı), located approximately 3 kilometres from Izmir city centre in the Alsancak district. From Alsancak, the Aegean coast is easily accessible: Cesme and Kusadasi are approximately 80–85km; Bodrum approximately 240km; Ephesus (Selcuk) approximately 80km.

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