Shipping from the USA to Turkey costs $40–$80 for small parcels via express couriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS), with delivery in 3–5 business days. Sea freight takes 14–19 days at a lower per-unit cost for large shipments. Turkey applies 18% VAT on imports plus applicable duties. Compare real-time rates on ShippingToGo to find the best option.
Shipping from the United States to Turkey has become a routine part of life for both individuals and businesses—whether it's sending documents, gifts, eCommerce items, or large-scale commercial shipments. But it's not always easy: prices vary, delivery times can be unclear, and there's often concern about customs procedures or shipment delays.
In this article, we'll go over the most popular shipping options from the USA to Turkey—including services like USPS, FedEx, DHL, Hermes, and UPS, as well as sea freight alternatives. We'll explore the pros and cons of each method, examine shipping costs, cover important topics like customs, insurance, and required documentation—and show you how ShippingToGo helps you choose the smartest, most cost-effective way to ship from the USA to Turkey.
What are the best shipping options from the USA to Turkey today?
| Carrier / Method | Transit Time | Best For | Tracking |
|---|---|---|---|
| DHL Express | 3–5 business days | Urgent parcels, documents | Full real-time |
| FedEx International Priority | 3–5 business days | Commercial shipments | Full real-time |
| UPS Worldwide Express | 4–6 business days | B2B, heavy packages | Full real-time |
| USPS International | 7–14 business days | Economy, lightweight parcels | Partial |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | 14–19 days | Bulk goods, furniture | Milestone updates |
These are the most common couriers people use today to transfer products between the USA and Turkey. Despite the large distance (approximately 10,000 km), ShippingToGo makes the process straightforward — enter your shipment details once and receive quotes from all major carriers in seconds.
Simply fill out the inquiry form with the shipment's specifics, and ShippingToGo will display all available shipping options and associated costs. The unique feature of the ShippingToGo platform is that it automatically identifies the best offer in terms of price and time, whether the shipment is urgent or not.
1. Things to Keep in Mind when Shipping From the USA to Turkey
Due to rising e-commerce sales, there is an increase in international shipping costs. Shipping internationally differs slightly from shipping domestically. You need to be aware of additional rules, documentation, and procedures related to customs.
Here are eight key things to think about before shipping from the USA to Turkey.
2. Taxes and Customs
Every item you ship needs to pass through customs. This confirms that the goods are legal to import and that all taxes and duties have been properly paid.
Turkey's customs charges for US imports:
- VAT: 18% on the declared value plus any applicable duties
- Customs duties vary by HS code — electronics typically 0–10%, clothing 12–20%
- The US and Turkey do not have a bilateral free trade agreement, so standard rates apply
Before any non-paper item can be delivered, a duty tax must be paid. Most shippers have the necessary paperwork and duty information on hand. Complete the papers and pay the required tax to avoid clearance delays.
3. The Package's Weight
Shipping costs are determined by the weight of the parcel — but note that carriers use either actual weight or dimensional weight (whichever is greater). Dimensional weight is calculated as: Length × Width × Height (cm) ÷ 5,000.
Weigh and measure your item precisely. You could pay more if the product is measured incorrectly. Certain weight or dimension requirements apply for specific shipping services — verify before booking.
4. The Transit Time
When shipping internationally, selecting a delivery date is crucial. International shipments are more likely to be delayed than domestic ones due to customs processing, weather events, or handling at transit hubs. Plan your shipping timeline accordingly, adding buffer days for customs clearance.
Based on ShippingToGo's shipping data, USA-to-Turkey shipments via express couriers are delivered within their stated timeframe approximately 90% of the time when documentation is complete.
5. Compare Shipping Costs
Compare shipping costs across carriers before booking. Each carrier charges unique rates based on your package dimensions, weight, and origin city. ShippingToGo displays all-inclusive prices upfront — no hidden fees.
6. Documents Required for USA-Turkey Shipments
Proper documentation is critical for international shipping. Required documents include:
- Commercial Invoice (sender, recipient, product description, declared value, HS code)
- Packing list (item count, weights, dimensions)
- Air waybill or bill of lading
- Certificate of Origin (for preferential rates or regulated goods)
- Electronic Export Information (EEI) via AES for shipments valued over $2,500
- NAFTA Certificate of Origin if applicable
When paperwork is in order, you can anticipate smoother customs clearance and on-time arrival.
7. Transportation Method
There are three methods of shipping internationally: air, sea, or freight (land/rail).
- Sea shipping — typically most economical for large shipments, but transit takes 14–19 days
- Air freight — fastest option (3–6 days), but costs approximately five times more than sea freight
- Perishable and sensitive items should not be transported by sea in sealed containers without climate control
8. Determine Which Items Are Restricted
Verify whether your item is on Turkey's prohibited or restricted import list. Turkey restricts or bans import of certain weapons, narcotics, counterfeit goods, and certain agricultural products. The Turkish customs authority may detain any shipment containing banned items.
Also check whether your products are perishable — follow the best shipping procedures for perishable goods to prevent spoilage during transit.
9. Insurance
There is always a chance of damage in international shipping, no matter how careful the handling. Insure goods against damage and accidents, particularly for high-value items. ShippingToGo offers shipment insurance options at the time of booking.
Sea Shipping from Turkey to the USA
Turkey ranked among the top 35 importers of products into the United States in recent years. Sea freight is the most common mode for large-volume goods transport between these two countries.
From Turkey to the US by sea
LCL (Less than Container Load) or FCL (Full Container Load) are your options. Sea freight from Turkey to the USA typically takes 14 to 19 days.
Major Seaports in Turkey:
- Ambarli Port — the largest port in Turkey
- Gemlik Port — a hub for the automotive sector
- Port of Mersin — Turkey's second-largest port
- Haydarpaşa Port in Istanbul — third-largest port
Major Sea Ports in the USA:
- Port of Los Angeles — the busiest container port in the United States
- Port of Long Beach — handles approximately 7 million containers annually
- Port of New York and New Jersey — largest port complex on the East Coast
- Northwest Seaport Alliance (Ports of Seattle and Tacoma) — among the busiest in the US
Air Freight from Turkey to the USA
Air transit between Turkey and the US takes 1–3 days. The cost of air freight is around five times that of ocean shipment. Air is recommended for perishable items, high-value goods, or time-sensitive shipments.
Principal Airports in Turkey:
- Istanbul Airport (IST) — primary international hub
- Ankara Esenboa Airport (ESB) — major secondary airport
Main Cargo Airports in the USA:
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- Louisville International Airport (SDF) — major UPS hub
- Memphis International Airport (MEM) — busiest cargo airport, FedEx hub
- Miami International Airport (MIA) — hub for UPS and FedEx Express
Customs Clearance for Shipping from Turkey to the USA
Before sourcing products, examine the customs duties using the official US Harmonized Tariff Schedule. Required documents for US customs clearance typically include:
- Certificate of origin
- Packing list (inventory)
- Letter of credit or payment terms documentation
- Commercial invoice
- Bill of lading or air waybill
Detailed quotes on overseas cargo costs are available from ShippingToGo for multiple forwarders simultaneously, saving you time and ensuring you get the best rate.
Frequently Asked Questions — Shipping from USA to Turkey
What are the best shipping options from the USA to Turkey?
Express couriers — DHL, FedEx, and UPS — offer the fastest service (3–5 days). USPS International provides a more economical option (7–14 days). For large commercial shipments, sea freight via LCL or FCL (14–19 days) is significantly cheaper per unit. Compare all options in real time on ShippingToGo.
How long does shipping from the USA to Turkey take?
Express courier: 3–5 business days. Standard international: 7–14 business days. Sea freight: 14–19 days. Turkish customs clearance typically adds 2–5 business days. Complete, accurate documentation is the most important factor in avoiding customs delays.
What are Turkish customs duties on imports from the USA?
Turkey applies 18% VAT on all imports plus product-specific customs duties. There is no US-Turkey Free Trade Agreement, so standard tariff rates apply. Electronics typically attract 0–10% duty; clothing 12–20%. Check the official Turkish tariff schedule for your product's HS code before shipping.
What documents do I need to ship from the USA to Turkey?
Required documents: commercial invoice (with HS codes and declared values), packing list, air waybill or bill of lading, and EEI (Electronic Export Information) for shipments over $2,500. Sea shipments require a bill of lading. A certificate of origin may be needed for certain product categories.
What is the cheapest way to ship from the USA to Turkey?
Sea freight (LCL) is the cheapest per-unit option for large or heavy shipments. For smaller parcels, USPS International or economy air services offer the lowest rates among express-style options. ShippingToGo compares all options side by side so you can select the best combination of price and speed.
