How long does it take to ship marble from Turkey?

Shipping time from Turkey varies by destination: Europe 2-3 weeks, US East Coast 3-5 weeks, US West Coast 6-8 weeks, Middle East 1-2 weeks. Add 1-2 weeks for production and customs clearance at destination.

What is the best Incoterm for importing stone?

For first-time importers, CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) is recommended as the seller handles shipping and insurance. DAP (Delivered At Place) offers maximum convenience with door-to-door delivery. EXW is only suitable if you have established freight forwarding relationships.

How much does it cost to ship a container of marble?

Container shipping costs vary by destination: Europe €1,500-2,500, US East Coast $3,000-4,500, US West Coast $4,500-6,500, Middle East $1,200-2,000. Rates fluctuate based on fuel prices and container availability. Contact us for current rates.

What documents are required to import natural stone?

Essential documents include: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading (B/L), Certificate of Origin, and ISPM-15 phytosanitary certificate for wooden crates. For EU imports, an EUR.1 certificate may reduce duties.

What is the HS code for marble tiles?

The HS Code for worked marble and travertine (tiles, slabs) is 6802.91. This code is used worldwide for customs classification. Import duties typically range from 2-6% depending on your country's trade agreements with Turkey.

How are marble tiles packed for international shipping?

Marble tiles are packed in ISPM-15 certified wooden crates with foam protection between each piece. Crates are secured inside containers with wooden bracing and strapping to prevent movement during ocean transit. Each crate typically weighs 1-1.5 tonnes.

What customs duties apply to Turkish marble?

Import duties for Turkish marble vary by country: EU 0-2.5% (with EUR.1), USA 3.7%, UK 0% (post-Brexit agreement), Australia 5%, Middle East 0-5%. VAT/GST is additional and usually recoverable for businesses. Consult your customs broker for exact rates.

Can I track my stone shipment from Turkey?

Yes, all shipments are trackable. You'll receive the Bill of Lading number which can be tracked on shipping line websites. For DAP shipments, we provide real-time updates via WhatsApp or email including vessel position, port arrival, and delivery scheduling.

What size containers are used for marble shipping?

Three container types are common: 20ft Standard (20-22 tonnes capacity, ideal for tiles), 40ft Standard (25-27 tonnes, for mixed orders), and 40ft High Cube (extra height for large slabs). Most tile orders fit in 20ft containers. Oversized blocks require flat rack containers.

How do I avoid demurrage fees on stone imports?

To avoid demurrage (port storage) and detention (container holding) fees: 1) Pre-clear customs before vessel arrival, 2) Have transport arranged in advance, 3) Ensure site is ready for unloading with proper equipment (telehandler with 5.2m reach), 4) Unload within free time (usually 2 hours).

Turkish Natural Stone Import Guide

Responsibility Matrix

Compare service levels. Choose DAP for a stress-free experience or EXW if you have your own expert logistics.

Logistics Steps

EXW

Ex Works

Max Effort

FOB

Free On Board

Medium Effort

CIF

Cost, Insurance, Freight

Recommended

DAP

Delivered At Place

Premium Service

Tile Packing

ISPM-15

Crates ready at factory

Transport to Port (Origin)

Inland truck in Turkey

Customs & Bill of Lading

Origin documentation

Loading on Board

Stowage on vessel

Sea Freight & Insurance

Ocean transport

Dest. Unloading (THC)

Port handling charges

CIF: Check Contract

Import Clearance

Customs broker service

Final Delivery to Site

Trucking to jobsite

Import Taxes & Duties

Payment to Government

Universal Buyer Responsibility (VAT / Duties) across all terms.

Global Logistics Network

We coordinate Turkish natural stone shipments from factories in Turkey to construction sites worldwide. Whether you're importing marble, travertine, or limestone, our logistics expertise ensures reliable delivery. Select your destination region to view estimated shipping times for your stone import project.

Origin: Turkey

Sea Freight Route

Total Estimated Time

4-6 Weeks

Production & QC

2-3 Wks

Quarrying, cutting, sizing & crating

Export Logistics

1 Wk

Inland transport to port & customs

Ocean Freight

2-3 Wks

Vessel transit to destination port

Import & Delivery

1 Wk

Customs clearance & delivery to site

* Estimates only. Customs clearance and inland delivery times may vary based on specific location and regulations.

Financial Flow: Who gets paid?

Go2Stone

Receives: Cost of Stone + Freight (If CIF/DAP)

Govt / Customs

Receives: VAT + Duties (Paid directly or via Broker)

Carrier / Truck

Receives: Detention Fees (If unloading takes >2h)

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about importing Turkish natural stone

Delivery Site Preparation

Ensure smooth reception of your natural stone

Reception Protocol

To ensure stone safety, unloading requires planning. The driver positions the truck, and your team handles the unloading.

Readiness Checklist

Telehandler (Manitou)Must have 5.20m outreach and ability to handle min 2 tons at max outreach.

ForkliftWithout a portable or structure ramp, the importer cannot use a forklift to unload as the container stays on the truck during delivery.

CraneCannot use crane unless the container type is OT (Open Top).

Professional delivery of Turkish marble tiles to construction site