In the rapidly evolving world of global trade, businesses are constantly seeking ways to reduce logistics costs, speed up delivery times, and maintain flexibility in their supply chains. One effective method gaining attention among international companies is the transshipment business model—the practice of moving goods through an intermediate hub before they reach their final destination.
Thanks to its strategic geographic position, modern port facilities, and active free zones, Türkiye has become one of the most attractive transshipment hubs in the region. This guide explains what transshipment is, why Türkiye is a strong choice for this model, and what foreign investors should know before getting started.
What Is Transshipment?
Transshipment refers to the process of transferring goods from one means of transportation to another at an intermediate location—most commonly at a port, airport, or free zone—before they continue to their final market.
Example: A container leaves Shanghai bound for Hamburg but stops at Mersin Port in Türkiye. There, the goods are unloaded, temporarily stored, and then reloaded onto another vessel headed for Europe. This is a classic transshipment operation.
Why Türkiye Is a Strategic Hub for Transshipment
1. Geographic Advantage
Türkiye is uniquely located at the intersection of Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it a natural logistics bridge connecting major markets.
2. Advanced Port Infrastructure
Major Turkish ports—such as Ambarlı (Istanbul), Mersin, İzmir Alsancak, İskenderun, and Yılport (Gebze)—are equipped with high-capacity terminals, advanced handling equipment, and efficient customs services.
3. Free Zones
Türkiye operates multiple free trade zones where companies benefit from:
- Flexible warehousing and storage options with simplified customs procedures.
- No customs duties or VAT on goods in transit.
- Permission to carry out value-added activities such as repackaging, labeling, or light assembly.
Advantages of the Transshipment Model for Foreign Investors
- Cost Efficiency: Using Turkish ports as a transit hub can reduce overall freight costs compared to direct shipments.
- Tax Benefits: Goods that transit through Türkiye without entering its domestic market are exempt from import duties and VAT.
- Time Savings: Quick maritime and land connections to Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa reduce lead times.
- Supply Chain Flexibility: Ability to reroute shipments during disruptions in global trade routes.
- Operational Support: Access to specialized services such as consolidation, cold storage, and bonded warehousing in free zones.
How Transshipment Works in Türkiye
- Cargo arrives at a Turkish port.
- Customs procedures and transit declarations are prepared.
- The cargo is temporarily stored or directly transferred to another vehicle.
- Goods are shipped to a third country without entering the Turkish market.
Note: As long as the goods are not sold within Türkiye, no import tax or VAT is incurred.
Who Can Benefit from This Model?
- International logistics companies
- Global trading and distribution firms
- E-commerce businesses
- Transit traders
- Foreign investors seeking access to Europe or the Middle East via Türkiye.
Important: If goods are sold within Türkiye, regular import duties and VAT will apply.
How ÖzbekCPA Can Help
At ÖzbekCPA, we provide end-to-end consultancy for foreign investors looking to operate transshipment activities in Türkiye. Our services include:
- Company formation and registration in free zones
- Customs and transit procedure guidance
- Accounting and tax compliance
- Advisory on incentives and tax exemptions
- Operational process planning and regulatory support
Why Türkiye Should Be Your Transshipment Hub
When applied strategically, the transshipment model offers significant cost savings and operational flexibility for international businesses. With its strong port network, active free zones, and unmatched location, Türkiye is one of the best countries in the region to set up a transshipment base.
If you are considering Türkiye as your next logistics hub, our experienced team is ready to support your investment every step of the way.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate your transshipment project in Türkiye.
