Freight from Türkiye to Iran

The main steps for importing goods from Türkiye to Iran are as follows.

Step 1. Choose a reliable supplier

Choose a reputable seller and verify its business credentials before paying.

Step 2. Obtain a pro forma invoice

Ask the seller for a pro forma invoice before finalising the order or shipping the goods. It lists the product specifications, price, quantity, payment terms and shipping arrangements. It sets out the proposed terms before the final commercial invoice is issued.

Step 3. Estimate freight and clearance costs

Use the pro forma invoice to obtain estimates from international freight forwarders and customs brokers. Where a letter of credit (LC) or bank transfer is available and appropriate, the bank may use details from the pro forma invoice when preparing the payment arrangements.

Step 4. Check duties, charges and import restrictions

Importers may have to pay customs duties and other charges to clear goods in Iran. The applicable charges may include the following.

• Customs duty. The applicable tariff is assessed on the customs value, which may be based on cost, insurance and freight (CIF).
• Commercial profit levy. An additional charge may apply to certain goods.
• VAT and other fees. VAT, Red Crescent charges, standards fees and related costs vary by HS code, commodity and current rules. Verify the applicable amounts before shipping.

Some goods are restricted or prohibited for reasons such as the following.

• Religious or cultural restrictions. Examples include alcoholic beverages and prohibited content.
• Economic restrictions. Some categories, such as certain household appliances or clothing, may be restricted to protect domestic production.
• Health or safety restrictions. These may apply to unlicensed food products, certain medicines or goods that fail applicable standards.
• Used goods. Certain second-hand items may be prohibited or require specific authorisation.

Check the product’s import status through Iran’s Comprehensive Trade System or consult a qualified customs broker before buying or shipping.

Step 5. Obtain import approvals

A pro forma invoice is generally used when applying for order registration, health approval, standards approval or other permits that may be required for the goods.

Order registration is an important stage in the formal import process for goods subject to it.

• Import authorisation. Where registration is required, complete it before the goods enter the customs clearance process.
• Foreign exchange allocation. Registration may be needed when applying for foreign exchange through authorised channels.
• Coordination with regulators. Registration makes details about the goods, seller and buyer available to the relevant authorities, including the industry ministry, customs and standards bodies.
• Transparency and anti-smuggling controls. Registration helps authorities track imports and monitor compliance.

Where it applies, order registration is an early step before the remaining customs procedures.

Step 6. Use authorised payment channels

Arrange cross-border payments through authorised banks, licensed exchange providers or official systems as applicable. Check Central Bank of Iran instructions and applicable currency, tax and trade rules before transferring funds.

Points to check

• Check that the exchange provider is licensed by the Central Bank of Iran and can process the intended transfer.
• The provider may ask for an invoice, contract or order registration record.
• Confirm the exchange rate and fees with the authorised provider before committing.
• Informal or unauthorised transfers may expose you to financial losses or legal consequences.