How to Import from China? Up-to-Date Guide for 2026

China is the world's largest exporter. Importing products from China provides significant cost advantages for Turkish entrepreneurs and businesses — but if the process is undertaken without knowledge, the losses can be equally large.

In this guide, we explain how to import from China, what to pay attention to, and which steps to follow based on our real experiences.

1. 4 Questions to Ask Before Starting Imports

The first thing you should do when you want to bring products from China is answer some basic questions:

• What product will you import? The more clearly you define it, the easier it will be to find the right supplier.

• What is the GTIP code? The customs duty is determined by this code.

• What certifications are required? Documents such as CE, TSE, and TAREKS vary based on the product.

• What will the minimum order quantity be? Chinese factories impose MOQ conditions.

Moving forward without answering these questions lays the groundwork for serious problems later on.

2. GTIP Code: The Foundation of Importing

GTIP (Customs Tariff Statistics Position) is a 12-digit code assigned to every product. Customs duties, regulations, and declarations are based on this code.

A wrong GTIP code declaration can lead to fines and delays in customs. You can learn your GTIP code through the Ministry of Trade's TAREKS system or via a customs consultant.

3. Finding the Right Supplier

There are millions of manufacturers in China. Finding a reliable one is the most critical step in importing.

The main ways to find suppliers are as follows:

• Alibaba and Made-in-China: The most common platforms. However, ordering without verification is risky.

• Yiwu Market: The world's largest wholesale market for small and medium-sized products.

• Direct factory visit: The most reliable method. You should never place a large order without seeing the factory.

• Local supply agent: A partner who speaks Chinese and works on-site in China is the fastest and safest solution.

When choosing a supplier, always check factory documents, references, and sample quality.

4. Don’t Order Without Samples

This point is very important. Photos may not reflect reality. The only way to understand a product's quality is to hold it in your hands.

Pay attention to these during the sampling process:

1. Request an official sample from the supplier

2. The buyer generally covers the shipping cost

3. Examine the sample in terms of size, material, and workmanship

4. Request revisions if necessary

5. Sign a contract after sample approval

5. Payment Security

The most common payment method in China is T/T (bank transfer), usually paid 30% in advance and 70% before shipment.

For large orders, using a Letter of Credit (L/C) reduces risk. If you are purchasing through Alibaba, the Trade Assurance system provides some security.

Never make 100% advance payment on your first order.

6. Production Tracking and Quality Control

The job doesn't end after placing the order. Following the production process prevents surprises.

• Confirm the production start date

• Request weekly photo updates

• Ensure quality control is done before shipment

Quality control should be performed in three stages: pre-production, during production, and before shipment. Get photo reports at each stage.

7. Logistics: Which Path to Choose?

There are three ways to transport products from China to Turkey:

• Sea freight: 20–35 days, the most economical option. Ideal for bulky and heavy products.

• Air freight: 3–7 days, high cost. Suitable for small and urgent orders.

• Land freight: 10–15 days, moderate cost. Especially preferred for routes through Central Asia.

The most common sea route to Turkey is: Yiwu → Shanghai → Istanbul/Mersin

8. Customs Process

The customs process begins when products arrive at a Turkish port. The following documents are required during this process:

• Commercial Invoice

• Bill of Lading

• Packing List

• Certificate of Origin

Declarations are made through a customs consultant, taxes are calculated based on the GTIP code, and after payment is made, the products are released.

9. The 5 Most Common Mistakes

• Ordering without samples

• Incorrectly declaring the GTIP code

• Skipping quality control

• Working without a contract

• Staying dependent on a single supplier

Conclusion

Importing from China can provide a significant competitive advantage to your business when done correctly. However, this process may seem complex due to language barriers, geographic distance, and bureaucratic procedures.

Working with a supply team that speaks Chinese and operates on-site in Yiwu eliminates much of these risks. You can request a free consultation to take the first step.

→ Get Free Consultation