The starting point for many processes — from determining TAREKS scope to calculating customs duty — is a single piece of information: the HS Code (GTİP). An incorrectly determined HS Code can lead either to an unnecessary inspection or to a product that is actually within scope going unnoticed. In this article we explain what the HS Code is and how to determine it correctly.
What Is the HS Code (GTİP)?
GTİP is the Turkish abbreviation for "Customs Tariff Statistics Position" and is a detailed product coding system used in Türkiye, based on the international Harmonized System (HS) classification. Every product corresponds to a specific HS Code based on its physical and functional characteristics. This code determines the customs duty rate, import/export statistics, and — most critical for our purposes — which technical inspection legislation (including TAREKS/ÜGD) the product is subject to.
Why Does the HS Code Matter So Much?
The Product Safety and Inspection communiqués published by the Ministry of Trade list the product groups subject to inspection by HS Code. For this reason, the answer to the question of whether a product falls within TAREKS scope depends directly on correctly determining the HS Code. An incorrect code declaration carries a two-way risk: a product that is within scope can be mistakenly shown as out of scope (which is a serious non-conformity), or a product that is out of scope can be unnecessarily routed to inspection.
How Is the HS Code Determined?
- Clarify the product's technical description, material, function and intended use.
- Research the relevant chapter and heading in the Harmonized System nomenclature.
- Examine which HS Codes similar products have previously been imported under.
- In doubtful or borderline cases, consider requesting binding tariff information (BTI) from the customs administration.
- Use the determined code consistently in the product's technical file and in the TAREKS application.
Common Sources of Ambiguity
| Situation | Why It Creates Ambiguity |
|---|---|
| Multi-function / combined products | Carrying characteristics that could fit more than one heading |
| Semi-finished or partly completed products | Being subject to a different classification than the final product |
| Spare parts / accessory imports | Ambiguity over whether it is an independent product or part of the main product |
| Products involving new technology | Not having a clear counterpart in the existing nomenclature |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who determines the HS Code?
The responsibility for declaring the HS Code belongs to the importer/exporter (in practice, generally the customs broker); but determining the correct code requires the product's technical characteristics to be accurately conveyed.
Is there a penalty for an incorrect HS Code declaration?
Yes, an incorrect HS Code declaration can lead to administrative sanctions under customs legislation; for this reason it is important to determine the code carefully and, if necessary, confirm it with binding tariff information.
Can the same product have more than one HS Code?
No, there is only one correct HS Code for each product; however, depending on the product's technical characteristics, which code is correct can require interpretation, in which case binding tariff information can be requested.
Conclusion
The HS Code is the invisible but decisive first step of the import process. A correctly determined HS Code clarifies both TAREKS scope and the applicable technical legislation from the very outset.
For more information, see our TAREKS & Import consultancy service.
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