Almost all companies engaged in commercial activities aim to expand abroad. Providing global services is a core part of many organizations’ visions. The main reason is that companies want to generate revenue in foreign currencies that have higher value against the Turkish lira. When examined, this offers significant advantages. In addition, companies that want to export do not necessarily need to ship large quantities of goods. This is exactly where micro export comes into play. It is an export model that enables small and medium‑sized businesses to enter international markets.
Many companies frequently ask: What is micro export and how is it done? Companies can conduct micro exports even with just a few kilograms of goods. Moreover, this model offers many advantages. With the advancement of technology and the widespread use of e‑commerce, micro export has become an increasingly preferred option. E‑export, which is a part of e‑commerce, can also be performed at small scales. Therefore, many companies can sell their products abroad through micro export, making the question “What is micro export?” increasingly common.
Micro export refers to a trade model involving international sales below 15,000 euros. This amount refers to the value of a single shipment, not the total amount accumulated over a period. Additionally, VAT (KDV) is not included in this limit.
There are also weight restrictions:
To qualify as micro export, the total shipment weight must be less than 300 kilograms.
These criteria make up the essential conditions for micro export.
Micro export practices are especially beneficial for e-commerce companies, as deals often involve lower quantities and values. More efficient business models can be included within micro export operations. It is also recommended that micro exports be carried out through ETGB – Electronic Commerce Customs Declaration.
Compared to traditional export, micro export limits are more flexible, but certain conditions must still be met. Exporters must be taxpayers, meaning they must be legally recognized as conducting commercial activities. Company size does not matter—limited, joint-stock, or sole proprietorships can all perform micro exports. Therefore, when asked, “Who can do micro export?” sole proprietorships are also included.
Micro export is a regulated trade model with specific limits, and companies must comply with these requirements. The most important factor is adhering to the rules of micro export. Before starting, you must ensure that your products meet the necessary criteria.
Unlike traditional export, the process is simpler and much faster. Traditional exporters must work with a customs broker, prepare extensive documentation, and cover various costs. However, micro export does not require a customs broker. Companies simply need to work with a logistics provider authorized to issue and process an ETGB.
To enter foreign markets through micro export, companies must be able to issue invoices and have tax declaration capability. Products shipped abroad must be registered in the customs system. Micro export is permitted for all products except those that are legally prohibited.
One frequently asked question is: How do you issue a micro export invoice?
When issuing a micro export invoice, great attention is required. The invoice must be prepared accurately without errors. It must be an officially approved printed invoice or an e‑archive invoice (e‑fatura is not used for micro export). Required information includes:
Micro export is subject to specific limits determined under the Electronic Commerce Customs Declaration (ETGB) framework. The micro export limit is calculated without VAT, which is why companies can receive VAT refunds.
The key limits are:
These limits may vary depending on the country or even the sector, but the general framework remains consistent. As long as your operations stay within these limits, micro export can be carried out smoothly without complications.