Ocean FCL
Full 20ft and 40ft containers from Istanbul (Ambarli), Mersin and Izmir.
How Turkey to South Africa freight works
Turkey supplies South Africa with textiles, appliances, furniture, glass and construction materials. Cargo leaves through Istanbul's Ambarli terminals, Mersin and Izmir, and Istanbul Airport is a major air cargo hub.
Ocean LCL
Groupage for part loads, so smaller importers pay only for the space they use.
Multi-supplier consolidation
Orders from several Turkish suppliers combined into one shipment and one customs entry.
Air freight
From Istanbul into OR Tambo for urgent and high-value cargo.
Indicative transit times from Turkey
| Origin | Mode | Indicative transit to South Africa |
|---|---|---|
| Istanbul / Mersin / Izmir | Ocean FCL | 25–40 days to Durban (routing dependent) |
| Turkish ports | Ocean LCL | 30–45 days |
| Istanbul | Air freight | 2–5 days to JNB |
Times are indicative and vary with carrier, transhipment and season. We confirm current schedules with every quote.
Duty, permits and compliance
South Africa does not have a free trade agreement with Turkey, so Turkish goods generally pay the full SACU duty rate. Textiles and clothing carry high duties, so classification matters.
HS classification
The tariff code decides your duty rate. We classify before you buy so the landed cost holds.
NRCS and SABS
Electrical goods, vehicle components and some building products need NRCS letters of authority before import.
ITAC permits
Used goods, certain steel, textiles and other controlled items may need an ITAC import permit.
Valuation
SARS can question low invoice values. Accurate invoices protect you from penalties and delays.
How we run an import from Turkey
- Quote. Send the pro forma invoice, packing details and Incoterm. You get a landed-cost quote.
- Collection or port receipt. We collect from the supplier (EXW/FCA) or take over at the load port (FOB).
- Document check. Bill of lading, invoice, packing list and any certificates are checked before sailing.
- SARS clearance. We lodge the entry as a SARS-licensed clearing agent and manage inspections.
- Delivery. Door delivery across South Africa or onward into SADC by road.
Turkey to South Africa import FAQs
How long does sea freight from Turkey take?
Usually 25 to 40 days to Durban depending on routing and transhipment. We confirm the current routing when we quote.
Do you ship dangerous goods to and from Turkey?
Yes. We have moved hazardous cargo such as aerosols on this lane and handle DG declarations and carrier approvals.
Do Turkish textiles pay high duty?
Clothing and many textiles attract high duty rates in South Africa. We confirm the rate on your exact product before you order.
Can you export from South Africa to Turkey?
Yes. We handle exports to Turkey as well, including export clearance and DG documentation.