Road freight between Türkiye and the UK
Full and part loads between Türkiye and the United Kingdom, both ways: post a load and compare quotes, or find loads for your trucks.
Distance
about 2,900–3,300 km by road from Istanbul
Typical transit
Usually 6–8 days from Istanbul, the Channel crossing included. A Ro-Ro leg to Trieste can shorten the time behind the wheel.
Both directions: export from Türkiye and import into Türkiye.
How trucks go
Trucks cross the Balkans and central Europe, or sail to Trieste, then reach Britain by ferry from Calais or through the Channel Tunnel.
Documents
- CMR consignment note
- Export declaration in Türkiye and UK import declaration
- A transit document: T1 (NCTS) or a TIR carnet
- Proof of origin under the UK–Türkiye trade agreement
- Safety and security declarations for entry to Great Britain
Vehicles and loads
Curtainsiders and mega trailers carry most goods, reefers carry food; part loads travel as groupage.
Questions
How long does a truck take between Türkiye and United Kingdom?
Usually 6–8 days from Istanbul, the Channel crossing included. A Ro-Ro leg to Trieste can shorten the time behind the wheel.
Which documents does a load between Türkiye and United Kingdom need?
Usually: CMR consignment note; Export declaration in Türkiye and UK import declaration; A transit document: T1 (NCTS) or a TIR carnet; Proof of origin under the UK–Türkiye trade agreement; Safety and security declarations for entry to Great Britain. Your customs broker confirms what your goods need.
Typical figures, not a promise: border queues, ferries and the season change them, and the carrier confirms the time in its quote. Ask your customs broker which documents your goods need. Updated 20 Oct 2026
