Understanding Strict Turkish Customs Laws

Shipping exhibition products to Turkey is a process often underestimated by international companies. As of February 2026, Turkish customs regulations have become exceptionally rigorous. Previously, small items under a specific value might have passed through easily, but today, not even a single needle can be imported without formal customs clearance. Many exhibitors mistakenly believe that sending items directly to a local contractor's warehouse via standard couriers like DHL, FedEx, or UPS solves the logistics puzzle. However, reaching Turkey is not the same as clearing Turkey.

When goods arrive at the border, they are immediately flagged for commercial or exhibition use. Standard courier services do not automatically handle the complex "Temporary Importation" or "Permanent Importation" paperwork required by Turkish authorities. If you ship your exhibition samples or booth materials directly to our factory without a professional customs broker, a 100% chance of customs seizure exists. This leads to high storage fees, legal delays, and in most cases, your products failing to reach the booth before the show ends. At ExpoTurco, we prioritize your success, which is why we must be transparent: we do not have the legal authorization to "clear" or "rescue" stuck items from customs.

• Mandatory Rule: Use a specialized exhibition logistics firm (ATA Carnet is highly recommended).
• Liability: ExpoTurco accepts no responsibility for goods shipped without prior customs clearance.
• The Risk: Items sent via standard mail will likely be held indefinitely at the customs terminal.

Professional Logistics vs. Direct Shipping

The difference between a successful exhibition and a logistical nightmare lies in the hands of a professional customs agent. While ExpoTurco excels at stand design, production, and on-site installation, we are not a logistics or customs brokerage firm. International brands often assume that because they paid for "express shipping," the goods will arrive at their booth. In reality, once the item hits the Turkish border, it enters a legal zone that requires specific tax IDs, power of attorney, and often a hefty bank guarantee for temporary entry.

We strongly advise all our clients to work with global exhibition logistics specialists like DB Schenker, Kuehne+Nagel, or local experts who understand the Tüyap or Istanbul Expo Center regulations. These firms handle the ATA Carnet process, which allows goods to enter Turkey temporarily without paying import duties. If you insist on shipping materials directly to our warehouse against our advice, you must be prepared to manage all legal hurdles personally. ExpoTurco will not intervene in customs disputes, as our core expertise is ensuring your physical stand is built to perfection and compliant with venue technical rules.

ExpoTurco On-Site Support and Strategy

To avoid the stress of Turkish customs, we recommend a "Local First" strategy. Instead of shipping heavy promotional materials, catalogs, or generic furniture, allow ExpoTurco to handle the production and sourcing within Turkey. We provide high-quality digital printing, furniture rental, and technical equipment that meet all local fire and safety regulations. This not only eliminates the risk of customs delays but also significantly reduces your total logistics budget. Our team ensures that every element of your stand from the flooring to the LED screens is ready and waiting for you when you arrive at the venue.

If you must bring proprietary products or machinery, start the paperwork at least 8 weeks before the show. Ensure your logistics partner coordinates directly with the venue’s official freight forwarder. Remember, our goal is to provide a seamless experience where you focus on sales while we focus on the build. By following these strict guidelines, you ensure that your presence in the Turkish market starts on a professional and hassle-free note.