Professional Roadmap in the Customs Process: From Preparation to Delivery

Another journey as important as the physical journey of your belongings in the logistics world is the customs journey on paper. The answer to the question 'How are customs procedures done?' depends on the type of product you send (commercial or personal effects), the legislation in the destination country, and the quality of the prepared documents. As Han Bros Cargo, we divide this complex process into four main phases for you. Our goal is to transform customs points from being 'obstacles' into professional 'crossing points'. Whether you send textile samples or move an entire house; customs discipline is the key to our success.

Customs Clearance Stages: What Do We Do Step-by-Step?

A standard customs operation proceeds in this chronological order:

Document Sorting and Draft Preparation: Before the vehicle is loaded, your invoice, packing list, and authorization documents are collected. The draft of your customs declaration is created by our experts.
Export Customs Procedures (Turkey): Procedures are completed at the relevant customs directorate for the items to leave the Turkish border and sealing is done.
Transit Process: Transit declarations in the countries passed along the way (Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, etc.) are managed with T1/T2 documents.
Arrival Customs Clearance (Import): When the destination country (UK, Germany, etc.) is reached, taxes are paid according to the local legislation there (if any) or the items are released by closing the exemption file.

Compliance and Cost Optimization

Customs clearance is not just about making a declaration, but also about minimizing the tax burden. Han Bros Cargo protects you from additional costs by following up-to-date discounts in EU customs legislation and personal effects exemption rules (compliant with GDPR and local laws). For example, obtaining your ToR (Transfer of Residence) approval when moving to the UK can save you from thousands of pounds of VAT and customs duty. We offer the technical support and consultancy necessary to obtain these approvals as a standard part of our package. For you, customs is not a surprise, but a planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who fills out the customs declaration?

Our certified customs consultants authorized on your behalf enter all technical data into the system, legally fill out the declaration and follow it up.

Does the difference between import and export affect the processing time?

In transportation, departure from Turkey is called 'export' (exit declaration if it's personal effects), and entry into the destination country is called 'import'. The approval times for both may vary according to the system intensity on that day.

What happens if my belongings are damaged at customs?

Customs examination is an official process. Han Bros Cargo personnel stand by the items during the examination and ensure that the packages are made secure again after the control is finished.

How does the process work if I need to pay tax?

If a customs duty has arisen, the relevant amount is paid to the customs administration. We can pay this amount on your behalf and invoice it to you, or we can ask you to make the payment directly.