Customs duties for Turkish carpets

Overview

Turkish carpets shipped internationally are processed under standard customs regulations. Duties and taxes depend on the destination country, the type of rug, and its declared value. With proper documentation, most shipments clear customs smoothly and without complications.

1. How Customs Classifies Turkish Carpets

Turkish rugs are typically categorized as home décor textiles. Handmade and machine-made rugs may fall under different subcategories, but both are evaluated using similar criteria:

• Material (wool, cotton, silk)

• Construction method (hand-knotted, flat-woven, machine-made)

• Intended use (personal import vs. commercial import)

This classification determines how duties and taxes are applied.

2. Duties by Destination Country

United States

• Many handmade rugs enter with low or zero duty, depending on classification.

• Local state taxes may still apply upon delivery.

European Union

• Duties are commonly applied based on textile category and declared value.

• VAT (Value Added Tax) is charged upon arrival.

United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Gulf Countries

• Standard textile import rules apply.

• VAT/GST may be charged depending on declared value.

Because tariff systems differ, exact rates vary between countries.

3. Who Pays the Duties?

In most cases:

• The buyer is responsible for paying any import duties, VAT, or taxes at the destination.

This is standard procedure for international shipments, regardless of whether the rug is modern or antique.

4. How Duties Are Calculated

Customs authorities typically calculate duties based on:

• Declared value on the invoice

• Shipping cost (some countries include this in the taxable amount)

• Material composition

• Country of origin (Turkey)

The courier—such as DHL, FedEx, or UPS—usually notifies the recipient if any duties or taxes are due.

5. Required Documentation

Professional carpet stores prepare all necessary export documents, including:

• Commercial invoice

• Material and weaving details

• Country of origin statement

• HS code classification

• Export declaration

Accurate paperwork ensures faster processing and smooth clearance.

6. Are Antique Rugs Treated Differently?

Antique rugs (typically classified as 100+ years old) can fall under special categories in some countries.
However, most antique carpet shipments still pass through customs using standard procedures when properly documented.

7. Customs-Related Delays

Minor delays can occur due to inspections or peak-season backlogs. These are generally resolved quickly if:

• The documentation is complete

• The declared value is accurate

• The invoice matches the shipment

Conclusion

Turkish carpets are straightforward to import into the US, Europe, and other major markets. Duties or taxes may apply, but with correct paperwork and reputable shipping partners, the process is predictable, manageable, and typically completed without issues.