Blog · · 2 min read
Importing salon and spa furniture from Türkiye to the EU: duties, ATR and paperwork
European buyers often ask whether furniture made in Türkiye is cheaper or harder to import than furniture from elsewhere. Because the EU and Türkiye are in a customs union, there is a specific route for industrial goods of Turkish origin. This guide explains it in plain terms, with the points to confirm with your customs broker.
What is the ATR certificate?
According to the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (KVK), an ATR certificate is a customs document certifying a product's origin, used in trade between the EU and Türkiye. Goods of Turkish origin can be imported into the EU free of import duties with it. The Turkish supplier applies for the certificate at Turkish customs, and it is valid for four months after issue. Certain agricultural and steel products are excluded.
Furniture is an industrial product, so this route generally applies, but your customs broker should confirm the tariff classification for your goods.
Duty-free does not mean tax-free
The ATR removes customs duty. It does not remove other taxes. Import VAT and any national charges in your country still apply, so ask your broker to calculate the full landed cost.
Documents to ask your supplier for
- Commercial invoice with the Incoterms 2020 term and place named.
- Packing list.
- The ATR movement certificate, if you want duty-free entry. Ask for it before shipping, as it is issued by Turkish customs.
- The transport document (bill of lading or road consignment note).
- Confirmation of wood packaging marking for pallets and crates.
Product safety rules to check
The EU General Product Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/988 has applied since 13 December 2024. According to SGS guidance, a product from outside the EU can be placed on the EU market only if an EU-established economic operator takes on specific responsibilities, and its details must appear on the product or packaging. Whether and how the regulation applies to furniture sold for professional use in a salon depends on how the product is classified, so confirm this with your adviser rather than assuming. This article is general information, not legal advice, and rules change.
Practical next steps
Ask a customs broker for the tariff code of each item and the full landed cost, request the ATR from your supplier, and agree the delivery term. We make salon and spa furniture to order in Türkiye and quote EXW, FOB or CIF; see our export information and Incoterms guide, or request a quotation.
Sources
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