Overview

A seasoned Amazon seller recently shared why he moved his sourcing from China to Turkey after freight costs from Asia surged and he needed tighter control over lead times and quality. The shift offers Amazon merchants a viable alternative to traditional Asian factories, especially for brands looking to reduce risk and improve responsiveness.

Key Points

• Rising freight expenses — Sea and air rates out of China have climbed to levels that erode profit margins for many sellers.
• Proximity advantage — Turkey’s location places it only a few flight hours from major European hubs, cutting transit time by up to 70 %.
• Comparable quality — Numerous Turkish manufacturers adhere to European standards and can match the product quality typically associated with Chinese factories.
• Lower minimum orders — Turkish suppliers often accept smaller order quantities, easing cash‑flow pressure for emerging brands.
• Different customs rules — Importing from Turkey involves distinct HS‑codes and origin‑document requirements compared with Chinese shipments.
• Language and cultural alignment — Many Turkish partners speak fluent English and have experience serving European markets, simplifying communication.

How Sourcing from Turkey Works

1. Market research and supplier identification — Sellers scan platforms such as Alibaba, TurkishExporter, and regional chambers of commerce to compile a shortlist. Example: A vendor of kitchen tools discovers three Turkish factories that produce stainless‑steel items meeting EU regulations.
2. Supplier qualification — Prospective partners are asked for corporate documents, certifications like ISO 9001, and client references to verify production capability. Example: The seller reviews a factory’s ISO certificate and confirms it aligns with the brand’s quality benchmarks.
3. Requesting samples — Before committing to volume, a prototype is ordered to assess material, workmanship, and packaging. : A sample stainless‑steel spatula is received, tested for heat resistance, and judged against the brand’s design standards.