The most common problem encountered with a shipment routed to document review under the TAREKS process is that the requested documents are missing or disorganized. In this article we explain the documents typically requested in a TAREKS application and possible document review, and what each one is for.
The Basic Document Set
- EU Declaration of Conformity: The signed document in which the manufacturer declares that the product complies with the relevant directives. See What Should the Declaration of Conformity Look Like?.
- Technical file summary: A document summarizing the product's design, risk analysis and applied standards. See How Is Technical File Review Carried Out?.
- User manual: A Turkish manual containing instructions for the product's safe installation, use and maintenance.
- Product label/marking: Labeling containing information such as the CE mark, manufacturer information, and model/serial number.
- Test reports: Laboratory reports showing the product has been tested against the relevant standards (if within scope).
- Invoice and shipping documents: Commercial documents required for customs procedures.
Additional Documents by Product Group
| Product Group | Typical Additional Document |
|---|---|
| Machinery | Risk analysis report, parts list |
| Electrical products | Electrical safety test report |
| ATEX-scope equipment | Notified body certificate (depending on category) |
| Personal protective equipment | Type examination certificate (depending on category) |
Which additional documents a product requires depends on the directive it is subject to; for a general framework on this topic, see our article Which Directives Apply to My Product?.
What to Watch for When Preparing Documents
- Clarify before ordering whether the documents can be obtained from the manufacturer.
- Plan the Turkish translation of the user manual early.
- Check that the declaration of conformity matches the product's actual technical characteristics (model, serial number).
- Prepare the technical file summary anticipating questions that could be asked during review.
- Keep all documents together in a digital, organized file structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all documents the same for every product?
No, the documents requested vary depending on the directive the product is subject to and its product group; however, the declaration of conformity, a technical file summary and the user manual are commonly requested for most product groups.
Can the documents be in English?
It is a general requirement for end-user-facing documents such as the user manual to be in Turkish; the language requirement for technical file components can vary by product group.
Does the process stop completely if documents are missing?
Generally, additional time is given to complete missing documents; however, this leads to a longer process and additional cost, so it is preferable for the documents to be complete from the outset.
Conclusion
Although the document set requested under TAREKS varies by product group, the underlying logic is always the same: the documentation proving the product's conformity with legislation must be complete and consistent. Preparing these documents before import is the biggest guarantee of a smooth process.
For more information, see our TAREKS & Import consultancy service.
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