ATR document
Do you want to trade between the EU and Turkey? Then you are required to apply for an ATR document. For transport to or from Turkey, this document is mandatory. For example, it ensures that you don’t have to pay import duties on certain products. Want to know more? Read on below!
What is an ATR document
An ATR document is a customs document that you must present to customs when you send goods to Turkey or import from Turkey to the EU. The meaning of ATR stands for "Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission", which refers to the temporary admission procedure of goods. This certificate proves that your goods originate from the EU or Turkey and meet the conditions of the customs union between these two regions.
ATR certificate
An ATR document, also known as an ATR certificate, is essential in trade between the EU and Turkey. It ensures that goods are eligible for preferential import rates, reducing trade barriers and saving you costs. For exporters, the use of an ATR certificate offers substantial benefits, including lower import duties and a more efficient customs process.
Why is an ATR document important for me?
As an exporter, it is crucial for you to have an ATR document, because:
- It is a mandatory document when trading between the EU and Turkey.
- With an ATR certificate, you can import your goods with no or reduced import duty costs.
- Lower import costs mean you can offer your products at competitive prices, strengthening your market position.
- It ensures swift processing at customs, as it clearly proves the origin of your goods and meets the requirements of the customs union.
Request a no-obligation quote
Company details
Contact details
What documents do you need?
How many documents do you need?
Please note: The customs declarant can charge € 25 for a one-off or first order

Why get an ATR with TransHeroes?
When exporting goods to Turkey or importing from Turkey to the European Union, a correct and valid ATR document is essential. Our customs specialists have extensive knowledge and experience in preparing ATR documents and are fully up-to-date with the latest customs regulations and procedures. We ensure all details are filled in accurately and correctly, saving you time and preventing unnecessary delays to your shipments due to customs procedures. All you need to do is provide us with the necessary information and documents, such as a commercial invoice.
Customs documents

In addition to an ATR document, we can also help you with other customs documents. At TransHeroes, we have our own in-house customs department, with each team member having their own specialism. Are you planning to import goods from countries outside the European Union? Then you will need to deal with export declarations. Or do you want to export goods outside the European Union? In that case, you will also need various customs documents! One thing is certain: with TransHeroes, your customs documents are in perfect order!
Complete peace of mind

Our customs specialists prepare many different customs documents and certificates every day. For us, it’s relatively straightforward to provide your transport with a customs document. But were you also aware of our other services? TransHeroes also has its own road, sea, and air freight divisions. This means you can entrust your entire logistics process to us. You will always have a dedicated contact person and access to our innovative online customer portal: the TransPortal. Here, you have immediate oversight and can even track your shipments live!
Frequently asked questions ATR document
Customs documentation can be a complicated matter. Fortunately, at TransHeroes, we have a team of experts who can prepare all customs documents, including ATR certificates. When you choose TransHeroes, you choose:
- Expertise and knowledge
- Personal contact
- Correct documentation
- Cost savings
- Speed
The purpose of an ATR document is to demonstrate that goods meet the requirements of the customs union between the EU and Turkey. This allows the goods to be imported with reduced, or complete exemption from, import duties.
No, there is no difference between an ATR document and an ATR certificate. Both terms are used to describe the same customs document used in trade between the European Union (EU) and Turkey. This document proves that goods originate from the EU or Turkey and are eligible for preferential import rates.
ATR is a customs document used in trade between the European Union (EU) and Turkey. The ATR certificate proves that the goods are in free circulation within these countries, which means they can be traded between them without customs duties. This document is specific to the trade of industrial products and certain processed agricultural goods. The ATR certificate helps simplify customs formalities and ensures the smooth flow of goods between the EU and Turkey.
Companies licensed as "Authorised Exporters for self-issuing ATR certificates for goods traffic", such as TransHeroes, can issue these certificates themselves without the need for customs validation.
To obtain an ATR certificate, you must follow a few steps, depending on your situation and the type of goods you are exporting to Turkey. In general, proceed as follows:
- Check if your goods are eligible: The ATR certificate applies to goods that can be imported free of import duties from the EU to Turkey and vice versa, as long as these goods have been placed in free circulation in the EU or Turkey. So first check whether your goods qualify for this.
- Apply for the ATR certificate: You can request the certificate through the Dutch Customs. This is often handled via a customs broker or a logistics service provider, such as TransHeroes, who will take care of the application and administrative process for you.
- Complete the necessary documents: To apply for the ATR, you need to submit several documents, such as an invoice, packing list, and possibly a preferential origin statement. These documents serve as proof that the goods qualify for a reduced import rate or exemption.
- Have Customs stamp it: Once you have completed and submitted the certificate, it must be approved and stamped by Customs. This process can take time, so make sure you start well in advance.
- Send your goods with the ATR certificate: Once you have received the stamped certificate, include it with your shipping documents. On arrival in Turkey, your goods may be eligible for exemption from import duties.
You can complete an ATR certificate yourself, but it is only valid after being checked and stamped by customs. However, TransHeroes can issue the certificate themselves and use it straight away without the intervention of customs. This saves a lot of waiting time.
No worries! In most cases you can still draw up an ATR certificate retroactively with the statement "Issued Retrospectively". This enables you to reclaim the import duties paid in Turkey, or customs clearance can be finalised once the original document is received. If you have any questions, contact us directly!
You can find the rates for having an ATR document prepared on our rates page. This is always up to date. The customs declarant may charge a one-off €25 administration fee. For larger volumes, we can offer a bulk discount. Contact us to find out what is possible for you.
An ATR certificate is valid for one shipment only and cannot be reused. The certificate is only valid while the shipment is in transit and must be presented upon arrival in Turkey in order to qualify for exemption or reduction of import duties. The certificate therefore expires once the shipment is completed. From that moment, the certificate is no longer valid.
