What Is a TIR Carnet? How to Obtain and Use It
The TIR carnet is an international customs document that, under the TIR Convention, allows goods in international road transport to be carried in a sealed vehicle without detailed inspection or additional guarantees at the customs of transit countries.
What Is a TIR Carnet? How to Obtain and Use It
The TIR carnet is an international customs document that, under the TIR Convention, allows goods in international road transport to be carried in a sealed vehicle without detailed inspection or additional guarantees at the customs of transit countries.
How does it work?
The carnet is issued in the country of departure and is loaded onto the vehicle together with the type and quantity of the goods and the route. After loading, the vehicle is sealed by customs. As long as the seal is intact, the cargo is not opened and inspected in the transit countries; this shortens waiting time at borders.
Guarantee system
Under the TIR system the guarantee is provided by an international guarantee chain, so a separate guarantee does not have to be given in each transit country. In Türkiye, TIR carnets are distributed through the authorised association (UND).
Who can use it?
- Carriers registered and authorised in the TIR system.
- Those using TIR-approved vehicles or containers.
- Those carrying transit goods between countries party to the convention.
Advantages
- Less waiting and inspection at border crossings.
- Passage through several countries with a single document.
- Simplified duty and guarantee procedures during transit.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the TIR carnet and T1?
The TIR carnet is based on the TIR Convention, T1 on the Common Transit Convention. Which document applies is determined by the countries on the route and the transport conditions.
Can the TIR carnet be used with any vehicle?
No. The vehicle or container must be approved under the TIR conditions and be sealable.
What happens if the seal is broken?
If tampering with the seal is detected, customs takes action and draws up a record; the goods may be inspected and the guarantee system may come into play.