What is ETGB?

ETGB is a declaration issued electronically by transport operators during import or export operations. ETGB stands for Electronic Commerce Customs Declaration and is a system used in Turkey to facilitate the customs procedures of electronic trade. This system is particularly helpful for speeding up the import and export processes of small packages and e-commerce shipments. Thanks to this declaration, businesses or individual users can complete customs procedures faster and electronically. One of the key features of ETGB is that it is issued by transport operators, not customs brokers.

What is ETGB and Micro Export?

ETGB export is also known as micro export. It has specific regulations defined by law. These regulations include:

• A maximum gross weight of 300 kilograms and a value limit of up to €15,000.
• To ensure smooth export operations, an indirect representation authorization document, a micro export shipment information form, the original invoice approved by the tax office, and an English invoice matching the Turkish invoice are required.
• Once the necessary documents are submitted along with the products to the courier company, the process known as express export begins.
• Items sent for processing abroad, repairs, or temporary exports such as fairs are not included under ETGB export. Only goods exported for sale can be shipped abroad through express export.

ETGB Import

Import shipments containing samples with no commercial value can be included under the Electronic Commerce Customs Declaration by transport operators without the need for a power of attorney. The rules defined under ETGB import include:

• The maximum shipment weight is set at 30 kilograms, and the value limit is €1,500.
• The shipped items must be samples and must not have commercial value.
• The declaration of goods under this scope must be approved.
• A letter of authorization must be signed; however, this is only possible for companies holding an official authorization certificate. Imports are subject to a tax rate of 18% for items originating from EU countries and 20% for those from other countries.

The advantages provided by ETGB include:

• No requirement for power of attorney in customs procedures.
• Exemption from the Customs Brokerage Service Fee.
• Exemption from membership fees paid to exporters’ associations.
• Faster operations and time-saving thanks to digital processes.
• Door-to-door delivery option is available.

How to Fill Out the Electronic Commerce Customs Declaration?

Before filling out the ETGB form, you must access the relevant electronic system of the Turkish Ministry of Customs and Trade. This system is commonly used to perform customs operations electronically.

Before reaching the stage of filling out the ETGB form, it is crucial to gather all the required information. Since the form includes all the details related to micro export, the following information must be included accurately:

• Bill of lading number
• Exporter company and address
• Tax number and tax office
• Contact person and communication details
• Exporter bank account information
• Description of the goods
• GTIP (Customs Tariff Statistical Position) number
• Quantity, value, and payment method of the goods
• Invoice details certified by the tax office (invoice number and date)
• Country of origin
• Documents to be shipped with the goods
• Receiver company name and address

Once all the information is provided, the ETGB form is processed and declared with a stamp or signature.

How to Query an ETGB Declaration?

ETGB query is a crucial step in e-commerce-based import and export operations. To perform an ETGB query, the person must visit the website of the courier company used for fast shipment. By entering the sub bill of lading number into the declaration query screen, the ETGB query can be completed. This way, you can obtain the declaration number and date.

You can also use the Ministry of Trade’s Declaration Query page for ETGB queries. The person or company performing the query may become eligible for VAT refunds. In express export operations, the lack of printed declarations and documents such as VAT copies may sometimes cause issues of proof. In such cases, the declaration number and date obtained from the query can serve as proof that the person or company conducted a micro export.

The ETGB system has gained significant importance with the rise of e-commerce. This system allows electronic submission of declarations to the relevant customs authorities via courier companies or authorized operators, significantly reducing the time it takes for products to reach their recipients. It also offers advantages such as reduced paperwork and lower operational costs during customs procedures.

Micro export operations are carried out in accordance with the regulations set by the Turkish Ministry of Customs and Trade. As a result, international shopping via e-commerce becomes more accessible and convenient for both consumers and businesses. In short, ETGB is now considered a key tool that contributes to the growth of e-commerce.