Export Documents Explained: What You Need When Importing from Turkey
When you import food or commodities from Turkey, the goods are only half of the shipment – the other half is paperwork. Without the right documents your container can sit at the port, collect storage charges, or even be refused entry. This guide explains the export documents you are most likely to receive from a Turkish supplier, what each one is for, and how to avoid the most common problems.
1. Commercial invoice
The commercial invoice is the bill for the goods. It shows the seller and buyer, a description of the products, quantities, unit prices, total value, currency, the agreed shipping term (for example CFR or CIF) and the HS code. Customs in your country use it to calculate import duty and taxes, so the description and value must be accurate and match the other documents.
2. Packing list
The packing list shows how the goods are packed: number of cartons, bags or pallets, net and gross weights, and often the container and seal numbers. Customs and your warehouse use it to check the shipment, and it helps you if anything goes missing.
3. Bill of lading
The bill of lading (B/L) is issued by the shipping line. It is the receipt for the goods, the contract of carriage, and – in its original form – the document of title. Whoever holds the original B/L can collect the container at the destination port. You will usually see one of these:
- Original bill of lading: paper originals are couriered to you or your bank. You need them to release the goods.
- Telex release / surrendered B/L: the originals are surrendered in Turkey and the shipping line releases the goods to you electronically – faster and common once the payment is settled.
- Sea waybill: not a document of title; the goods are released to the named consignee without originals.
4. Certificate of origin
The certificate of origin proves that the goods come from Turkey. In Turkey it is issued by the local chamber of commerce or industry. Many importing countries require it, and it is needed to claim reduced duty under trade agreements. Depending on the product and your country, Turkish exporters may also issue a preferential origin document such as an EUR.1 or A.TR movement certificate, which can lower or remove import duty – ask your customs broker whether your country accepts one.
5. Phytosanitary certificate
A phytosanitary certificate is required for plant products such as grains, pulses, seeds, fresh fruit and vegetables, and animal feed of plant origin. It is issued by the Turkish Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry after inspection, and confirms the goods are free from pests and diseases according to your country’s rules. Products like lentils, soybean meal and alfalfa pellets usually need one.
6. Health certificate
For processed foods and products of animal origin, many countries ask for a health or sanitary certificate confirming the food is fit for human consumption. Requirements vary a lot between countries, so check them before the goods are produced.
7. Certificate of analysis
A certificate of analysis (COA) shows laboratory results for the batch – for example moisture, protein, free fatty acids or peroxide value. It is your proof that the goods meet the specification in your contract. Our sunflower oil import guide shows the typical values buyers check for cooking oil.
8. Halal certificate
If you sell in markets where Halal certification is required or expected, ask for a Halal certificate issued by a recognised certification body. In Turkey, Halal certification bodies are accredited by the Halal Accreditation Agency (HAK). Check that the certificate covers the specific product and that your country recognises the issuing body.
9. Insurance certificate
If you buy on CIF terms, the seller provides an insurance certificate or policy for the sea journey. Make sure it is in your name or can be transferred to you. Our guide to FOB, CFR and CIF shipping terms explains who insures the goods under each term.
10. Other documents you may need
- Fumigation certificate: sometimes required for grains, pulses or goods packed on wooden pallets.
- Pre-shipment inspection or conformity certificates: some countries require an inspection and a certificate before loading.
- Import permit or licence: issued in your own country for certain food products.
How to avoid document problems
- Check requirements first. Ask your customs broker for the full list of documents your country needs for the product before you place the order.
- Send your list to the supplier. Agree in writing which documents will be supplied and in whose name.
- Check details match. Names, addresses, product descriptions, weights and HS codes should be the same on every document.
- Ask for drafts. Request draft copies of the B/L and certificates before shipment so mistakes can be corrected early.
- Be extra careful with letters of credit. Banks check documents strictly; even a small spelling difference can delay payment.
Documents from BS Sariyavuz Export
For every order we confirm in advance which export documents will be provided for your product and destination, and we can share drafts for your approval before shipment. Tell us your country and the documents your customs require, and we will advise you. Browse our products in the shop, including sunflower oil and durum wheat pasta.
Contact us on WhatsApp or by phone at +1 727 201 2398, or through our contact page. We are available 08:00–17:00 every day, including weekends.
Frequently asked questions
Do all products need a phytosanitary certificate?
No. It is mainly required for plants and plant products such as grains, pulses, seeds, fresh produce and some animal feed. Processed foods usually need a health certificate instead, depending on your country.
What is a telex release?
It means the original bill of lading has been surrendered at the port of loading, and the shipping line releases the container to the consignee without paper originals. It saves courier time once payment is complete.
Who pays for the export documents?
Standard export documents are normally prepared by the seller. Special certificates or inspections required only by the importing country may be charged separately – agree this in your contract.
