How to Calculate Shipping Costs from Turkey to the USA

Beeontrade · July 2025
6 min read

From the Editor’s Desk

Calculating international shipping costs can be daunting—especially when sending cargo from Turkey to the United States. The total delivery cost isn’t just about the freight rate; it includes customs charges, pallet rates, inland delivery, and documentation fees. Without accurate forecasting, logistics budgets can easily spiral out of control.

This blog offers a comprehensive breakdown of how to calculate your shipping expenses. We'll cover how to use a shipping fee calculator, understand customs and duties, and apply cost-saving techniques for every shipment.

Key Observations

Growing Trade Volume

• Exports from Turkey to the U.S. rose 15% in H1 2025, led by textiles and machinery.
• Freight forwarders are expanding consolidation services for Turkish SMEs.

Cost Impact Factors

• Volatility in TRY/USD exchange rates is directly affecting final invoice totals.
• Importers face rising pallet delivery costs across major U.S. distribution hubs.

Step-by-Step Guide to Shipping Cost Calculation

Step 1: Determine Your Cargo Dimensions and Weight

Start with measuring your shipment in cubic meters (CBM) and kilograms. Freight charges are typically calculated based on whichever value is greater: actual weight or dimensional weight.

Step 2: Use a Shipping Fee Calculator

Online shipping fee calculators allow you to input size, weight, and route to estimate base freight cost. These calculators adjust for seasonal fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and handling fees.

Step 3: Add Customs Charges and Duties

Customs clearance costs depend on the HS code classification. Typical charges include:

• U.S. Customs Duty (based on declared cargo value)
• Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF)
• Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF)

Step 4: Factor in Pallet Rate USA

Final-mile delivery rates are often calculated per pallet. These can vary significantly depending on destination zip code, service level (LTL vs. FTL), and accessorials like liftgate service or inside delivery.

Step 5: Calculate Total Delivery Cost

Combine the following to arrive at your final total:

• Origin port charges
• Main freight leg (ocean or air)
• Customs and compliance fees
• Inland delivery and pallet rate
• Insurance, if applicable

Cost-Saving Best Practices

Optimize Load Utilization

Maximize your cargo per pallet or container. Partial loads may cost more per unit than fully loaded shipments.

Bundle Shipments

Working with a freight forwarder who offers consolidation lets you share space—and cost—with other shippers on similar routes.

Digital Freight Tools

Freight platforms help compare quotes, predict landed costs, and manage documents in one place.

Beeontrade’s Perspective

At Beeontrade, we make shipping from Turkey to the USA simple, affordable, and predictable. Our integrated freight calculator, customs tools, and real-time tracking empower businesses to take control of their delivery costs—before cargo even leaves the port.

Use Our Shipping Cost Calculator

Sources

• JOC: "Turkish Export Trends and U.S. Trade Outlook" – joc.com
• Flexport: "Total Landed Cost Calculation Guide" – flexport.com
• Trade.gov: "Customs Clearance in the U.S." – trade.gov
• Beeontrade: "Shipping Rate Intelligence Platform" – beeontrade.com