Overview
At customs, everything starts with the right tariff heading. The GTIP — Türkiye’s 12-digit, HS-based tariff code — directly determines the duties and taxes payable, measures such as additional customs duty and anti-dumping duty, TAREKS and other agency checks, and statistical records. Misclassification can turn into additional duties and penalties in post-clearance audits. As customs brokers, we provide HS code and tariff classification support from our head office in Kayseri and our branch and liaison offices.
How is the GTIP determined?
The Turkish Customs Tariff Schedule (TGTC) uses a 12-digit structure: the first six digits are based on the Harmonized System and the first eight on the EU Combined Nomenclature. Classification follows the General Interpretative Rules of the Harmonized System, the section and chapter notes, and the HS Explanatory Notes.
The goods’ technical characteristics, composition, function and intended use are assessed together. Where needed, we work from product catalogs, technical drawings or laboratory analysis reports, and also take into account administrative rulings on similar goods and BTIs already issued.
Binding Tariff Information (BTI)
For products with disputed classification or high volumes, Binding Tariff Information is the most powerful tool for ensuring predictability. A BTI (BTB in Turkish) is an official decision issued by the customs administration on application, making the tariff classification of specific goods binding on both the administration and the holder for as long as it remains valid.
A complete and technically clear application file directly affects the speed and outcome of the process. We prepare an application that describes your product accurately and support it with samples and technical documents where necessary.
Product lists and classification reviews
For companies with a wide product range, we classify product lists in bulk and review the tariff choices made in past declarations. Together with you, we plan how to resolve any inconsistencies we find, taking post-clearance audit risk into account.
What we do
- 12-digit GTIP determination with a reasoned classification opinion
- Analysis of duties and commercial policy measures linked to the GTIP
- Identifying TAREKS, import license and other control requirements
- Preparing Binding Tariff Information (BTI) application files
- Bulk classification of product lists
- Tariff consistency checks on past declarations
- Monitoring changes to the tariff schedule and new regulations
Documents typically required
- Product catalog, brochure or technical data sheet
- Technical drawings, product photos and user manual
- Composition or ingredient information, or an analysis report
- Description of the production process and intended use
- Previous declarations and BTIs obtained, if any
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I declare the wrong GTIP?
If an incorrect GTIP led to underpaid duties or bypassed required checks, the missing duties may be collected along with administrative fines. The consequences depend on the nature and impact of the error; when in doubt, getting an assessment before filing is the safest course.
Who is bound by a BTI?
A BTI is binding only for the person to whom it is issued and for the goods described in it. Since changes to the legislation or tariff schedule can end a BTI’s validity before it expires, we recommend checking its current status before relying on it.
Why is the code on my supplier’s invoice different?
The first six digits of the GTIP are common internationally under the Harmonized System. The remaining digits follow the nomenclatures of individual countries or customs unions, so the code on your supplier’s invoice may not exactly match the 12-digit GTIP used in Türkiye.
Is a sample needed for classification?
Not always. Most products can be classified using technical documents and photos; however, products whose composition or function is not clear from documents may require a sample examination or laboratory analysis.