Ship Car to Istanbul with Safe, Affordable Transport from the USA

Car Shipping Istanbul

Istanbul is the largest city and the most popular tourist destination in Turkey. Nearly 12 million people visit the city yearly because of its historic architecture, culture, and entertainment. If you relocate to Istanbul, you may need your vehicle to drive during your stay in the city. You will need help from a professional auto transporter to move the car overseas. You will need to abide by U.S. and Turkish customs regulations and rules set by the transport company when you ship the vehicle overseas. The hauler will require you to provide some standard paperwork for international car hauling.

Proper Documentation

When shipping a car to Istanbul, ensuring all necessary documentation is in order is crucial for a smooth process. Key documents typically include the vehicle's title, registration, proof of ownership, a copy of your passport, and a bill of sale if applicable. It's advisable to consult with your shipping company to confirm the specific paperwork required, as missing or incorrect documents can lead to delays or additional fees during customs clearance.

Standard Paperwork that will be needed:

• Driver’s License.
• Social Security Number.
• Vehicle Title.
• Power of Attorney.

You can also contact U.S. Customs for information on export laws for hauling a car from the United States.

Choosing Between RoRo and Container Shipping Methods

Selecting the appropriate shipping method based on your vehicle type and budget is essential. Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping is often the most cost-effective option for standard vehicles, where cars are driven onto the ship and secured for transit. However, if you have a luxury or classic car, container shipping might be preferable despite the higher cost, as it offers added protection against potential damage during the journey.

Cost & Time Examples For Hauling a Vehicle

*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle.

*Save on ground transport costs by delivering the vehicle to the nearest port.

*Allow an additional 10 days to process the documents.

*Prices are for one car in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to haul a vehicle internationally. Other items may be included in the container to help save you money when moving.

*The RoRo (roll on, roll off) method is less expensive, and shipments can be completed in fewer days. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.

Customs Regulations

Turkey has very stringent customs regulations for importing motor vehicles, and they must be followed precisely. To bring a car into Istanbul, you may choose a temporary or permanent resident status.

Temporary Status Importation

If you plan on staying in Istanbul for up to 3 months, you may be able to import the car temporarily. To do s,o you will need the following paperwork:

• Passport.
• International Driver’s License.
• Motor Vehicle Registration.
• Motor Vehicle Insurance (Must be valid in Turkey).

Permanent Vehicle Import Rules for Istanbul

Bringing a car into Turkey permanently can be challenging for non-Turkish citizens. In most cases, it isn’t allowed unless you fall into specific categories, such as being a student, an educator with a permanent position, or a retiree relocating to Istanbul. If you qualify, applying for a Blue Card through the Turkey Touring and Automobile Association allows you to stay in the country long-term and import your vehicle legally.

Whether your vehicle is entering the country temporarily or permanently, you’ll need to be physically present at the customs checkpoint when it arrives. If you cannot drive the car from the port yourself, you can arrange with your car shipping company to deliver it to your address in Istanbul once customs clearance is complete.

What to Know Before You Ship Your Car to Istanbul

Before you finalize your international car shipping to Turkey, speak with your transport agent about available shipping methods, timelines, and costs. They’ll guide you on any mechanical updates your vehicle may need before departure, what documents must be provided, and what to expect regarding taxes and port fees in the U.S. and Istanbul.

Don’t forget to ask about insurance coverage during transport. Some overseas shipping companies include insurance, while others may require you to add temporary coverage through your current auto policy. Your agent should also clarify the customs process for U.S. and Turkish regulations to help you avoid unnecessary delays or penalties during your vehicle’s journey overseas.

How to Import an Auto to Istanbul

Hauling a car from the United States to Istanbul, Turkey, is generally done with either Ro-Ro or Container Shipping. Ro-Ro, also known as Roll-On Roll-Off Shipping, is the most widely used mode to ship a car overseas. Cars are rolled, or driven onto a ship, parked, and strapped in place for the trip overseas. All vehicles on a Ro-Ro ship must be completely emptied of personal items or paperwork before leaving the shipping port. If you plan on sending personal or home goods along with the vehicle, you must pay a fee for a container and ship the car on a container instead of a Ro-Ro ship. As your automobile transport agent discusses all aspects of overseas automobile shipping with you, they will also detail all the pros and cons of each type of shipping and how each will benefit your own car or personal shipping budget. You can check with the Federal Maritime Commission for more information on overseas carriers.

Conclusion

Shipping a car to Istanbul doesn’t have to be complicated if you plan. From choosing the proper transport method to gathering the correct documents, each step makes the process efficient and stress-free. Working with an experienced international auto transport company ensures that U.S. and Turkish customs requirements are handled correctly, reducing the risk of delays or unexpected costs. Whether you're relocating for work, study, or an extended stay, having your vehicle with you in Istanbul can offer unmatched convenience and mobility throughout your time in Turkey.