Get the Paperwork Right Once
Most UK customs delays trace back to missing or incorrect paperwork. Get the documents right the first time and a UK import clears quickly. Get them wrong and even routine shipments stall at the border.
Here is the practical checklist of what we typically need for a UK import from Turkey.
The Core Documents
Commercial Invoice
The commercial invoice is the single most important document. It tells HMRC what the goods are, what they are worth, and the basis of the transaction. It should include:
- Seller (shipper) and buyer (consignee) details
- Description of goods (clear, plain language)
- HS / commodity code (if known)
- Quantity, weight, packaging
- Unit price, total price and currency
- INCOTERMS (FOB, CIF, EXW, DAP, etc.)
- Invoice number and date
- Country of origin
A vague description like "machine parts" can trigger queries. The clearer the description, the smoother the clearance.
Packing List
The packing list breaks down what is physically in each package. It should match the commercial invoice in totals (quantity, weight) and provide the per-package detail customs and warehouse staff need:
- Number of packages and type (cartons, pallets)
- Dimensions and weight per package
- Contents of each package
- Total gross and net weight
Bill of Lading or CMR
For road freight, the CMR consignment note is the contract of carriage and proof that the goods were dispatched. For sea freight it is the bill of lading (or sea waybill).
These documents identify the carrier, the route, and the consignee. The original CMR/BoL is needed for the customs entry.
EORI Number
Every business importing into the UK needs an EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification). It is issued by HMRC and looks like GB123456789000.
If you do not have one, you cannot import. Period. Apply for one before your first shipment — most are issued within 3–5 working days.
Product-Specific Documents
Beyond the core four, certain goods need extras:
- Food and animal products — health certificates, IPAFFS pre-notification.
- Plants and plant products — phytosanitary certificate.
- Controlled goods — import licence (firearms, certain chemicals, etc.).
- Textiles and clothing — depending on origin, additional documentation may apply.
- Dual-use goods — export controls may require a licence even on import.
If you are not sure whether your goods need additional documents, ask before shipping. It is much cheaper to find out at the booking stage than at the border.
Origin and Preferences
If your goods qualify for preferential duty under the UK–Turkey trade agreement, you need to demonstrate origin. That usually means:
- A statement on origin on the invoice from the exporter, or
- A EUR.1 movement certificate issued by Turkish customs, or
- The exporter making a declaration that meets the rules of origin.
Preferential duty can reduce your import bill significantly, so it is worth getting this right.
What To Send Us
When you book a UK import with us, please send:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- CMR or bill of lading (when issued)
- EORI number (yours, if you are the importer)
- Any product-specific certificates
Send these as PDFs by email or upload via our contact form. The earlier we have them, the earlier we can pre-lodge the customs entry and get you a fast release.