published datepublished date: 7/23/2025
read timeread time: 7 Minutes

Exporting goods to Turkey is considered one of the most important trade routes for Iranian merchants. As one of Iran's key neighbors, Turkey offers a large market for a variety of goods. Utilizing different export methods, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages, can impact the speed, cost, and quality of delivery. In this article, we will thoroughly examine the differences between land and sea exports to Turkey and explain the key aspects of each method in more detail.

Advantages and Challenges of Exporting to Turkey via Land Border

Land exports to Turkey are mainly carried out through common border crossings such as Bazargan, Sarv, and Turkey Chay. This method has become very popular in recent decades, especially for goods that require fast delivery and lower costs.

One of the main advantages of land export is the speed of goods delivery. Due to the proximity of the border and the ability for trucks and trailers to pass quickly, the shipping process can be completed within a few days, which is particularly important for perishable goods or urgent orders. Additionally, transportation costs by land are usually lower than sea freight, and with no port fees or handling charges, there is a lighter economic burden on the exporter.

On the other hand, land export to Turkey also comes with challenges. These include limitations on the volume and weight of goods, as trucks and trailers have specific capacities and may not be suitable for bulky or heavy loads. Moreover, border customs may sometimes experience heavy traffic, which can lead to delays in customs clearance. Issues related to security checks, border documentation, and sanctions are other potential obstacles that need careful management.

Key Features of Sea Exports to Turkey and Their Impact on Trade

Sea export is one of the most common and oldest methods of transporting goods internationally. Thanks to its ability to handle large volumes and a wide range of cargo, it continues to play a special role in trade between Iran and Turkey.

One of the main advantages of sea freight is the ability to transport extremely voluminous and heavy loads, which would be difficult or uneconomical by land. Also, with the development of Iranian ports such as Imam Khomeini Port, Shahid Rajaee Port, and northern ports, convenient access and advanced infrastructure have made sea exports to Turkey and even other countries highly competitive in quality and cost.

In this method, shipping costs are generally less than land transport when the volume of cargo is high, though delivery times are longer. The duration of sea transport depends on the origin, destination, and shipping routes; typically, it takes several weeks and is suitable for goods without time sensitivity.

Disadvantages of sea export include a lengthy delivery process and the need for complex port operations. Loading and unloading at ports may cause time delays, while storage and port service fees can add to the final product cost. Furthermore, for goods that require speedy delivery or come in smaller quantities, using sea freight is usually not cost-effective.

Comparing Time and Cost: Exporting to Turkey by Land or Sea?

One of the primary concerns for exporters when choosing a shipping method is a precise comparison of delivery times and final costs. While the total cost of sea freight is generally more economical for bulky goods, the longer shipping time may lead to increased ancillary expenses such as warehousing and storage.

Land transport, on the other hand, is faster and incurs fewer extra costs, but if the volume is large or the load is heavy, it may not be the most economical option.

Therefore, depending on the type of goods, urgency of delivery, and cargo volume, the exporter must select the most suitable route. For example, fresh and perishable products mostly use land transportation, while industrial goods or large volumes of raw materials are usually shipped by sea.

The Role of Border and Port Infrastructure in Facilitating Exports to Turkey

The state of border and port infrastructure is a key factor in choosing a shipping method. The border crossings between Iran and Turkey have significantly developed in recent years. New facilities, such as electronic cargo control systems, automated customs, and streamlined clearance procedures, have sped up the land export process.

On the maritime side, the development of Iranian ports in the south and north of the country, equipped with modern facilities, advanced loading equipment, and rapid unloading systems, has dramatically boosted the capacity for sea exports. Joint cooperation between Iranian and Turkish ports to simplify customs clearance and transit procedures has also played an important role in reducing the time and cost of exports.

The Influence of Geographic and Political Conditions on Land and Sea Exports

Due to the geography of Iran and Turkey, land exports benefit from shared borders, enabling fast and easy access. However, there are restrictions such as winter precipitation and the temporary closure of borders because of political or security conditions, which can disrupt trade flows.

Sea transportation is also affected by weather conditions, international issues, and shipping restrictions. Political changes in the Persian Gulf region, the Strait of Hormuz, and international relations can affect pricing and shipping routes.

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Impacting Factor

Description

Type of Metal

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Pipe Thickness

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Painting

Powder coating is more durable and more expensive

Number of Legs & Reinforcement Structure

Beds with more legs and reinforced structures are more expensive

Headboard Design

Curved and fantasy headboards increase the price

Ease of Assembly and Transport

Some models come packed as kits and are easy to assemble

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Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice of export method to Turkey directly depends on the type of product, cargo volume, delivery urgency, and export budget. Land transport is recommended for small and urgent shipments, while sea transport is more suitable for large volumes and non-urgent goods.

It is also essential to consider day-to-day market conditions, exchange rate fluctuations, the status of infrastructure, and customs regulations to ultimately select the best and most economical option.

 

FAQ

Land export is usually faster and, in the absence of border traffic, goods can reach their destination within a few days. This method is more suitable for perishable or urgent goods.
The most important land borders between Iran and Turkey include Bazargan, Sarv, and Razi (Turkcheh Chay), all of which are equipped with customs facilities and international transportation.
Bulk, heavy, and non-perishable goods such as industrial raw materials, metals, equipment, and machinery are mostly transported by sea.
In some cases, yes; for example, goods are shipped from Iranian ports to Turkish ports and then transported by truck to their final destination within Turkey (multimodal transportation).

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Moein Vijeh

SEO Manager

Moein Vijeh, SEO and content production manager with professional experience in digital marketing, passionate about analysis, strategy, and impactful content creation.


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