Guide
How to Import From Turkey
Turkey has become one of the most attractive sourcing destinations for global buyers, sitting at the crossroads of Europe and Asia with a manufacturing base that combines competitive pricing, fast lead times, and a customs union with the EU. This guide walks you through the entire import process, from finding the right factory to clearing your goods through customs, so you can build a reliable supply chain with confidence.
1. Define your product specifications
Before contacting any supplier, document your exact requirements: materials, dimensions, tolerances, certifications, packaging, and target unit price. A clear technical specification reduces miscommunication, speeds up quoting, and gives you leverage when comparing factories. The more precise your brief, the more accurate the quotes you receive.
2. Find and shortlist verified manufacturers
Identify factories that genuinely produce your category rather than trading companies that simply resell. Look for verifiable signals such as factory audits, export history, certifications relevant to your market, and a willingness to share references or arrange a video factory tour. Shortlist three to five candidates so you can compare quality, price, and responsiveness.
3. Request samples and validate quality
Always order pre-production samples before committing to a bulk order. Evaluate them against your specification, test durability where relevant, and confirm that the factory can replicate the sample consistently at scale. Paying for samples is normal and signals to the supplier that you are a serious buyer.
4. Negotiate terms and payment
Agree on price, minimum order quantity, lead time, and Incoterms (commonly FOB or EXW from Turkish ports such as Istanbul or Izmir). For first orders, balanced payment terms protect both sides: a deposit to start production and the balance against shipping documents. Avoid paying the full amount upfront to an unverified supplier.
5. Arrange inspection, logistics, and customs
Book a pre-shipment quality inspection so defects are caught before goods leave the factory. Choose between sea freight for cost efficiency and air freight for speed. Thanks to the EU-Turkey Customs Union, many industrial goods move into the EU with reduced duties when accompanied by an A.TR movement certificate. Confirm the correct documentation with your freight forwarder and customs broker.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to import from Turkey than from China?
For many categories such as textiles, furniture, and cosmetics, Turkey offers competitive unit prices with significantly shorter shipping times to Europe and lower minimum order quantities, which can make total landed cost lower despite a higher headline price.
What is the minimum order quantity when importing from Turkey?
MOQs vary by industry and factory, but Turkish manufacturers are often more flexible than large Asian factories, with many accepting smaller trial orders, especially in textiles and private-label cosmetics.
Do I need a customs agent to import from Turkey?
Working with a customs broker or freight forwarder is strongly recommended. They handle documentation such as the A.TR certificate, calculate duties, and ensure your shipment clears smoothly.
Related guides
Turkey vs China Manufacturing
A balanced comparison of sourcing from Turkey versus China across cost, lead time, quality, minimum order quantities, and logistics for European and global buyers.
Read guideTurkey Sourcing Agent Guide
Understand what a Turkey sourcing agent does, how much they cost, and when hiring one makes sense versus contacting manufacturers directly.
Read guideReady to find a Turkish supplier?
Browse verified manufacturers by category and connect with factories that match your requirements.
Browse categories