Turkish Travels

Moving to Turkey: What to Know Before You Relocate

Moving to Turkey can be an exciting adventure, but shipping your belongings, navigating customs and making practical preparations require careful planning. Below are key points to be aware of when relocating from the UK, along with practical tips and trusted removal companies.

Moving household goods and personal effects to Turkey is generally straightforward if your items are used and for personal use. Your belongings usually need to arrive within a specific window relative to your own arrival, and customs authorities can be strict about documentation. A detailed inventory of everything you pack is essential, and you will normally need valid residency documentation before your goods can be released.

Key Considerations When Shipping Belongings

Preparing a detailed contents list in both Turkish and English is one of the most important steps. Every box and item should be listed, and electrical goods should include brand names and serial numbers. Customs authorities expect full clarity, and incomplete documentation can lead to delays or unexpected charges.

Avoid shipping brand-new white goods such as washing machines or fridges. New appliances are often treated as commercial imports and may be taxed heavily. Even packing used appliances in their original boxes can lead to misunderstandings, so it is better to remove them from original packaging and clearly mark them as used.

Bringing a car to Turkey is one of the most complicated parts of relocation. Vehicles are subject to strict import rules and must be cleared separately. If your car is shipped in the same container as your household goods, everything may be delayed until the vehicle is cleared. You usually need to be physically present during customs procedures or appoint a representative.

Some goods are restricted or prohibited. Alcohol, tobacco, foodstuff and multiple duplicate electronics can trigger extra checks or taxation. Weapons or controlled items are strictly prohibited. Ensure you understand what you are allowed to bring and what may cause problems.

When shipping by cargo or post, goods above certain value thresholds may be subject to tax. Always provide realistic valuations to avoid disputes. Under-declaring can cause far more complications than declaring items properly.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Move

Be prepared with a bilingual inventory. Photograph valuable goods and electronics, including serial numbers. Ensure all your documents are ready before your shipment arrives, including your passport and residence paperwork.

Using a professional international mover is strongly recommended. Companies experienced with UK to Turkey relocations understand the necessary customs procedures and can help you avoid common mistakes. Pack your belongings securely, label all boxes clearly and don’t forget to keep a printed copy of your contents list with you.

Sample Contents List Template (English / Turkish)

Here is a simple bilingual template you can expand:

English	Turkish
Sofa (3-seater)	Kanepe (3 kişilik)
Wooden dining table	Ahşap yemek masası
Television, Samsung, serial no. XYZ123	Televizyon, Samsung, seri no. XYZ123
Laptop, Dell, serial no. ABC456	Dizüstü bilgisayar, Dell, seri no. ABC456
Kitchen pots and pans	Mutfak tencere ve tavalar

Continue this format until every single item is listed.

Top UK Removal Firms for Moving to Turkey

Below are five reliable UK removal companies that offer shipping services to Turkey:

GB Liners
A well-established UK removals company with over a century of experience. They offer international shipping, packing services and coordinated customs support for moves to Turkey. This is the company we used and we can strongly recommend them. Very organised and extremely professional as well as being keen on price.
Website: https://www.gbliners.com/

Pickfords
One of the UK’s largest international removal firms, offering regular container services to Turkey with both full and shared load options. They help with customs paperwork and local delivery.
Website: https://www.pickfords.co.uk/moving-to-turkey

Sterling Sinclair Removals
Experienced overseas movers offering surveys, packing services and international shipping. They handle all required documentation for moves to Turkey.
Website: https://www.sterlingsinclairremovals.co.uk/residential-moves/moving-abroad/turkey/

Moving Partnership
Specialists in European and international relocations with experience in UK-to-Turkey shipments. They provide door-to-door services and customs coordination.
Website: https://www.movingpartnership.co.uk/removals-to-ankara-turkey

CML Cargo
A logistics and relocation company providing door-to-door service, customs clearance and full shipment management for moves to Turkey.
Website: https://cmlcargo.com/international-removals/

Moving to Turkey can be a smooth experience if you prepare your documentation carefully, understand customs rules and choose a reputable removals company. A well-organised inventory, realistic expectations about what you can bring and professional support will make your transition to life in Turkey much easier.