Moving to Turkey? Here’s How to Ship Your Vehicle

Relocating to Turkey offers an incredible lifestyle change, but navigating Turkish customs regulations is complex. Many expats ask, “Can I ship my vehicle if I am moving to Turkey?” At West Coast Shipping, we specialize in navigating the intricate “Blue Plate” and temporary import regimes that allow foreigners to bring their vehicles to Turkey, making your transition smoother.

Understanding Your Vehicle Shipping Options to Turkey

When planning a move to Turkey, selecting the right transport method is critical for both budget and vehicle safety. At West Coast Shipping, we offer three proven methods for Turkey-bound shipments:

Container Shipping: Our most recommended option for Turkey. You can ship your vehicle in a shared container (consolidated) to reduce costs or a dedicated container for exclusivity. This method is ideal for expats bringing high-value SUVs or sedans, as it provides extra security against the elements and allows for carrying personal effects inside the vehicle—a distinct advantage for relocations.

RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off): A cost-effective solution for standard, running vehicles. Your car is driven onto the vessel and secured on a specialized deck. Note that RoRo carriers to Turkey strictly prohibit personal items inside the vehicle, so this is purely for vehicle transport.

Air Freight: Need your vehicle in Istanbul or Ankara immediately? Our air freight service delivers vehicles in days rather than weeks. While premium-priced, this limits the time you spend navigating a new country without your own transportation.

Moving Costs: Shipping and the "Blue Plate" Deposit

Budgeting for a move to Turkey requires understanding two distinct costs: the shipping itself and the Turkish customs requirements.

• Shipping Costs: Transporting a vehicle from the US to Turkey typically costs between $3,900 and $5,400, depending on your departure port (California, Florida, or New Jersey) and the destination port (usually Istanbul, Izmir, or Mersin).

• The "Blue Plate" (Misafir Plaka) Deposit: To avoid Turkey’s high import taxes (ÖTV and VAT), eligible foreigners (work permit holders, retirees, etc.) typically use the tax-free "Blue Plate" regime. This requires posting a security deposit (teminat) with the Turkish Touring and Automobile Union (Turing). This deposit is calculated based on the vehicle’s potential tax liability and is refundable when you eventually export the vehicle or naturalize.

Use our online calculator for an instant, transparent shipping quote to Turkey.

Timeline for Moving Your Vehicle to Turkey

International relocation requires patience. Shipping a vehicle from the US to Turkey typically takes:

• 30–45 days from the East Coast (New Jersey, Florida)

• 45–60 days from the West Coast (California)

We provide specific sailing schedules based on your origin to help you coordinate your arrival in Turkey with your vehicle’s clearance.

Documentation Required for Turkey Relocation

Successful entry into Turkey’s "Blue Plate" or temporary import system relies on precise documentation. You will need:

For US Export:

• Original Vehicle Title (or lien release letter)

• Bill of Sale

• Power of Attorney form

• Copy of Passport

For Turkey Import (Blue Plate/Tax-Free Eligibility):

• Residence Permit: Proof of legal residence in Turkey.

• Work Permit or Retirement Document: Essential for "Blue Plate" eligibility.

• "Turing" Carnet Application: The Foreign Vehicles Temporary Entry Carnet (Blue Card).

• Proof of Overseas Residence: The "185-Day Rule" often applies (you must have been outside Turkey for 185 of the last 365 days), though retirees may have exemptions.

Our team handles the US export formalities and coordinates with your Turkish customs broker to ensure your documents align with local requirements.

The Complete Turkey Moving Process

Relocating your vehicle follows a structured timeline:

Preparation (2-3 weeks): We handle vehicle collection, condition reporting, US Customs export clearance, and secure loading.

Transit: Your vehicle travels via ocean freight to a major Turkish port.

Arrival & "Turing" Processing: Upon arrival, your vehicle enters a bonded customs area. You or your broker will present your residence/work permits to the Touring and Automobile Union to secure your Blue Plate status and post your guarantee. Once approved, the vehicle is registered with MA/MZ (guest) plates.

Additional Considerations For Your Move

Moving to Turkey involves unique rules compared to other destinations:

• The 185-Day Rule: Most importers must prove they lived outside Turkey for at least 185 days in the last year to qualify for temporary import.

• Driver Restrictions: "Blue Plate" vehicles can typically only be driven by the registered owner and their immediate family members (spouse/children).

• Insurance: You will need valid Turkish traffic insurance (Zorunlu Trafik Sigortası) immediately upon clearing customs.

Why Choose West Coast Shipping For Your Turkey Move

Turkey’s import regulations are among the strictest in Europe/Asia. With extensive experience shipping to Turkey, we understand:

• The difference between "tourist" temporary admission and "Blue Plate" relocation.

• How to prepare vehicles to pass strict Turkish customs inspections.

• Managing the logistics to major hubs like Istanbul and Izmir.

• The critical timing of US export docs vs. Turkish residency approval.

Whether you are retiring to the Mediterranean coast or moving to Istanbul for work, trust your vehicle to experts who know the terrain.