In the complex world of international trade, customs procedures can often seem like a daunting hurdle. However, understanding the basic steps involved in import and export processes can help businesses manage this process more smoothly and efficiently. In this article, we will examine in detail the essential steps to follow in both import and export transactions.

Import Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preparation and Planning:
• Market Research and Supplier Selection: Identifying the product to be imported, researching potential suppliers, and selecting the most suitable one is the first step in this phase.
• Contract and Proforma Invoice: A contract outlining the commercial terms is signed with the supplier, and a proforma invoice (preliminary invoice) is obtained.
• Preparation of Necessary Documents: The preparation of documents specifically required for the product to be imported (invoice, certificate of origin, transport document, insurance policy, etc.) begins.
2. Transportation and Submission to Customs:
• Shipping Organization: The appropriate shipping method (sea, air, land) is selected to transport the product from the supplier to Turkey, and transportation is organized.
• Entry Declaration to Customs: Once the goods reach Turkish borders, an entry declaration is submitted to customs. This process is usually carried out through a customs broker.
• Submission of Required Documents: All prepared documents are submitted to the customs authorities.
3. Customs Controls and Taxation:
• Document Control: Customs officials verify the accuracy and completeness of the submitted documents.
• Inspection: If necessary, the imported goods may be subject to physical inspection.
• Tariff Determination and Taxation: The HS (Harmonized System) code of the product is determined, and the applicable customs duties (customs duty, VAT, SCT, etc.) are calculated accordingly.
• Payment of Taxes: The calculated customs duties are paid to the relevant account.
4. Release and Delivery:
• Customs Clearance: After the taxes are paid and the controls are completed, the process of clearing the goods from customs is carried out.
• Delivery: The goods cleared from customs are shipped to the address specified by the buyer.

Export Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preparation and Marketing:
• Market Research and Buyer Identification: Target markets for the product to be exported are determined, and potential buyers are researched.
• Offer and Contract: An offer outlining the commercial terms is submitted to the buyer, and a contract is signed upon agreement.
• Preparation of Necessary Documents: The preparation of documents specifically required for the product to be exported (invoice, certificate of origin, transport document, insurance policy, export declaration, etc.) begins.
2. Submission to Customs and Controls:
• Export Declaration: An export declaration is prepared for the goods to be exported and submitted to the customs administration. This process is usually carried out through a customs broker.
• Submission of Required Documents: All prepared documents are submitted to the customs authorities.
• Customs Control: Customs officials verify the accuracy of the submitted documents and the compliance of the goods with export regulations. Physical inspection may be carried out if necessary.
3. Transportation and Delivery:
• Shipping Organization: The appropriate shipping method (sea, air, land) is selected to transport the product to the buyer's country, and transportation is organized.
• Customs Exit Procedures: After obtaining the export permit, the procedures for the goods to exit Turkish customs borders are completed.
• Delivery: The goods are shipped to the address specified by the buyer.
4. Documentation and Payment:
• Completion of Export Documents: The necessary documents confirming the completion of the export are prepared and kept on file.
• Payment Tracking: The timely receipt of payment from the buyer is monitored.

Important Notes:

• Customs procedures may vary depending on the country, the product, and trade agreements.
• Providing accurate and complete documentation is critical for the smooth progress of the process.
• It is important to keep track of changes in customs regulations.
• Seeking professional support from customs brokers can greatly facilitate complex transactions.

We hope this detailed step-by-step guide helps you understand the import and export customs processes. In our next article, we will address common problems encountered in customs procedures and offer solutions.