How to Find GTIP and HES Code: 2026 Guide

Confusion Between GTIP and HES Code: What Does Each “Code” Do in 2026?

When researching exports, imports, or travel to Turkey, we encounter very different concepts with the word “code”:
GTIP / HS code (customs and foreign trade) and HES code (health/tracking system during the COVID-19 period) are the two most commonly confused.

As we enter 2026:

• If your business is foreign trade, GTIP (HS/HTS code) is still mandatory and critical.
• If you are planning to travel to Turkey or domestic flights, the HES code application has effectively ended.

In this guide, from a 2026 perspective:

• What GTIP / HS code is and what it is used for,
• Step by step how to find the correct GTIP in 2026,
• What HES code is, why it was introduced, and what stage it is at today (2025–2026),
• How HES code was historically obtained (as archival information),
• And why obtaining professional support in these processes, especially in international structuring and payroll structures, is critical.

We will address this in detail.

1. What is GTIP? (Basis of HS / HTS Code)

GTIP (Customs Tariff Statistical Position) is the Turkish adaptation of the globally used HS Code (Harmonized System Code).
Countries add their own additional levels on top of the 6-digit HS structure determined by the World Customs Organization (WCO):

• First 6 digits: HS – global, common basic classification in all countries,
• Subsequent digits: National/domestic subdivisions (for example, HTSUS in the USA, CN/TARIC in the EU, GTIP in Turkey).

For example, the codes used in imports to the USA operate through the HTSUS table, referred to in guides like Shopify as “HTS codes for importing products into the US“. Many international sources related to 2026 have started publishing guides specific to this system with titles like “HS/HTS code classification 2026 guide“.

1.1. What is the Use of GTIP / HS Code?

The correct GTIP / HS code is not only necessary for “filling out forms”; it determines the customs fate of the goods:

• Determines customs duty and VAT rates: An incorrect code can lead to either overpayment of taxes or penalties due to underreporting.
• Import/export statistics: Governments collect and analyze foreign trade data according to HS/GTIP.
• Bans, quotas, surveillance, and technical regulations:
  Whether a product’s import is banned, requires additional permits, has quotas, or is subject to surveillance/protection measures – all depend on the GTIP code.
• Free trade agreements and proof of origin: Determines which chapter the product falls under and to what extent you can benefit from which FTAs.

1.2. GTIP is Different from GTIN

One of the common confusions is between GTIP and GTIN (Global Trade Item Number):

• GTIN: The commercial unit identity of the product, the numerical code on the barcode.
  It is used for product identification in the supply chain and retail.
• GTIP: The tariff classification used in customs and tax matters.
  The customs duty, VAT, quotas, surveillance, etc., all regulations are shaped according to this code.

In summary, a product’s GTIN is important for your e-commerce and inventory systems; GTIP comes into play when crossing borders and calculating financial obligations.
When planning exports and imports, both codes must be managed correctly, but they do not replace each other.

2. How to Find GTIP in 2026? (Step-by-Step Guide)

The basic logic of the GTIP finding process specific to 2026 does not change; however, digital customs systems and cross-checks are working much more strictly.
This means that misclassification can be detected more easily, and the consequences can be more severe.

2.1. First Step: Correctly Define the Product

Everything in tariff classification starts with the product definition. Ask yourself the following questions:

• What is the primary function of the product? (e.g., “knife used for cutting food in the kitchen”),
• What material is it made of? (e.g., stainless steel),
• Is it a single piece or a set? (e.g., 6-piece knife set),
• Does it contain electronic components, software, or smart functions?

For example, the definition “stainless steel kitchen knife” will likely lead you to Chapter 82 (“Tools, knives, etc.”).
The clearer your description, the easier it will be to reach the correct result in official search tools.

2.2. Use Official Tariff Search Tools

One of the tools frequently cited as a good practice example worldwide is the USITC HTS online search tool, which Shopify refers to as the “gold standard.” The basic logic here is:

• First, search with a general keyword related to the product (e.g., “tea”),
• Then narrow down the results to find the relevant chapter, position, and sub-position.

The same approach applies to Turkey and the EU. The general strategy for finding GTIP in 2026 is:

1. Clarify the product’s function and material description.
2. Find the relevant chapter in the official tariff database:
   • Food and live animals: 1–24
   • Chemical products: 28–38
   • Plastics and rubber: 39–40
   • Textiles and clothing: 50–63
   • Machinery and electronics: 84–85
3. Select the position and sub-positions that best match the product description within the chapter.
4. Be sure to review the explanatory notes and rules of interpretation (GRI – General Rules for Interpretation).

The official search engine that can be used in Turkey and the EU’s TARIC / CN databases provide direct or indirect access to GTIP.
USITC HTS is also a strong reference point in terms of English explanations for companies operating in Europe and Turkey.

2.3. Classification Guides and GRI Rules for 2026

As of 2026, various digital customs solutions are publishing guides similar to “Complete Guide to HS Code Classification in 2026“.
These guides generally include:

• GRI (General Rules of Interpretation),
• Sample classification files,
• Common mistakes

explained in simple language.

Summary of GRI:

• GRI 1: Classification is primarily based on the text of the position.
  That is, the text description of the goods is looked at first.
• GRI 2–3: Regulates complex situations such as finished goods/semi-finished goods, mixed items, sets, and classification by function.
• GRI 4–6: Explains details such as comparison through similar items, selection at the sub-position level, and inter-chapter priority.

2.4. Auxiliary Tools and Practical Tips

You can think of the tools you can use to find GTIP / HS code in three groups:

• Official HS / HTS search tools:
  • Online HS / GTIP search engine of the national customs authority,
  • USITC HTS search tool for the USA (Shopify refers to it as the “gold standard” for finding HTS codes).
• Expert software and 2026 guides:
  • AI suggestion systems integrated into HS classification software,
  • HS classification guides dated 2026 (for example, blogs and training examining classification cases).
• Professional support:
  • Chambers of commerce,
  • Customs consultants,
  • Customs units of logistics companies.

Especially in gray areas such as sets, electronic products, devices containing software, composite products, obtaining professional advice is a much cheaper and safer way to avoid potential additional taxes and penalties in the future.

2.5. What Happens If You Choose the Wrong GTIP in 2026?

Digital customs systems, data analytics, and automated cross-check mechanisms will be much more advanced in 2026. Choosing the wrong GTIP can lead to:

• Additional taxes and penalties (retroactive assessments, late fees, administrative fines),
• Delays and waiting at customs,
• Administrative investigations and an increase in your risk score,
• And in some cases, seizure of goods.

In 2026, many countries will digitally match HS codes, invoices, proof of origin, and freight data, automatically flagging inconsistencies.
Therefore, the era of “no one will look anyway” has effectively ended. A small mistake can pose millions of dollars in risk for companies operating on a global scale.

3. What is HES Code? Current Status in 2025–2026

Now let’s move to a completely different area, the HES code. Its only commonality with GTIP is that it carries the word “code.”

3.1. Definition and Purpose

HES (Life Fits Home) code is a personal risk/tracking code developed by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Turkey during the COVID‑19 pandemic, consisting of 10–12 digits. The purpose was to control a person’s COVID‑19 contact and risk status during domestic travel and entry into public spaces.

For example, UNHCR Turkey defines HES as “a 10 or 12-digit code used to purchase tickets for public transport within Turkey” and states that this code was designed to slow the spread of COVID‑19.

During the period of highest application in 2020–2021:

• When purchasing intercity bus, train, and plane tickets,
• When entering public institutions, some shopping malls, and crowded places,
• Sometimes when matching HES codes to public transport cards (for example, Istanbulkart)

Presenting the HES code was mandatory.

3.2. After 2022 and HES Requirement in 2025–2026

With the transition to a controlled phase of the pandemic, the requirement for the HES code was gradually lifted.
For example, a tourism information source clearly emphasizes that as of March 2022, the HES requirement has been lifted both for entry into the country and in institutions and that tourists no longer need a HES code when traveling to Turkey.

Between 2023–2025:

• The actual use of the HES code has ended,
• However, the system may continue to exist as a infrastructure that can be reactivated in the event of a new outbreak or emergency scenario.

Some English guides dated 2025 still detail the HES code, but this explanation is more from a “what was it in the past, why was it introduced?” perspective, serving as archival information.

Summary in the context of the 2026 guide:

• 2020–2021: HES code was widely and mandatorily used for domestic transportation and entry into enclosed spaces.
• 2022: Requirements were gradually lifted as of March 2022.
• 2023–2025: HES code is not practically used; the legal infrastructure can be updated if necessary during potential crisis periods (this part is commentary; current official statements should be checked).
• As we enter 2026: The general rule for tourists or business people coming to Turkey is that the HES code is not required. However, you should always check the latest government announcements before traveling.

4. How Was HES Code Obtained? (Historical / Archival Information)

Although it is not practically mandatory today (2025–2026), let’s briefly recall how the HES code was obtained in the past to understand how the system worked.

4.1. Obtaining HES Code via SMS (For Turkish Citizens)

According to the UNHCR Turkey guide, the standard SMS format for Turkish citizens was as follows:

• The following format would be written in the message section of the phone:
  
  HES [space] T.C. ID No [space] Birth year [space] Number of days
• The message would be sent to a designated short number (for example, 2023).
• A personal HES code would be generated with the incoming SMS response.

The “number of days” specified in this command determined how long the HES code would be valid. It was possible to request a new code before the validity period expired.

4.2. HES Code via Application and e-Government

For those with a T.C. ID number or foreigners who have obtained a foreign ID number:

• Generating a code through the “Life Fits Home” mobile application,
• Creating a HES code by logging in through e-Government

was also possible. In these channels, the following information was generally displayed:

• Code duration (validity date),
• Information showing to whom the code belongs,
• Occasionally linking vaccination/PCR information.

4.3. HES Code for Foreigners and Tourists

During the peak of the pandemic, tourists coming to Turkey or foreigners living here also needed to obtain a HES code for intercity travel.
These individuals:

• Could use SMS and application methods if they obtained a foreign ID number,
• Could benefit from forms that allowed them to generate HES codes with passport information during certain periods.

Today, however, this information is more important for understanding the past; you do not encounter requests for HES codes in practice.

5. GTIP / HS Code, HES Code, and Things to Consider When Doing Business in 2026

At this point, let’s clarify the difference between the two concepts:

• GTIP / HS / HTS code: Mandatory product classification code for foreign trade, customs duties, quotas, and statistics.
• HES code: A personal travel/risk code used for health risk tracking during the COVID‑19 period, which is not currently used.

Therefore:

• If you are importing/exporting, the main focus should be on the correct identification of GTIP / HS code and its impact on taxes, VAT, quotas, and permits.
• If you are traveling to Turkey for business or vacation, the general rule as of 2026 is that HES code is not required; however, in case of an extraordinary situation, official announcements take precedence.

6. Cost, Tax, and Compliance Aspect: The Cost of Wrong Code

Choosing the wrong or incomplete GTIP is not just a technical “code error”; it directly produces financial results:

• Customs duties and VAT: Underreporting leads to retroactive tax assessments and interest/penalties; overreporting requires a refund process.
• Anti-dumping duties, surveillance, and protection measures:
  Additional taxes or surveillance prices may apply for certain GTIPs in some product groups (e.g., steel, textiles, chemical products).
  An incorrect code can leave you facing an unexpected tax burden.
• Permits and certifications: Technical regulations such as CE marking, health certificates, agricultural/zoonotic permits are mostly defined according to GTIP.

Digital customs authorities will automatically match the declared GTIP in 2026 with:

• Invoice description,
• Freight/transportation information,
• Proof of origin,
• Your statistical history

This is why the “it won’t matter just this once” approach poses a serious compliance risk for your company in the long term.

7. Corpenza’s Role: Professional Support in International Structuring, GTIP, and Payroll Processes

International corporate structuring, sending personnel abroad, posted worker model for tax optimization, payroll (EOR), investment-based residency and citizenship plans are complex enough on their own. Adding to this:

• Each country’s different HS / HTS / GTIP structure,
• Different taxation and social security rules,
• New compliance obligations brought by digital customs systems

creates a natural need for professional consulting.

Corpenza works with expert teams on:

• Company establishment and international structuring,
• Residency permits and golden visa processes,
• International accounting and payroll / EOR solutions,
• Personnel leasing and tax optimization with the posted worker model,
• Investment-based citizenship programs.

Whether you are sending personnel to Europe or exporting goods and services from Turkey to different countries;
customs classification, tax planning, and compliance must be considered together.
When the correct structure is established:

• You can optimize the total tax burden,
• Reduce the risk of double taxation,
• Avoid unnecessary delays and penalties at customs.

Corpenza can work alongside your customs and tax teams and provide you with a comprehensive framework on the international payroll and corporate structuring side.

8. Conclusion: Summary Roadmap for 2026

The concepts of GTIP and HES code belong to two completely different worlds:

• GTIP / HS / HTS code: The fundamental instrument of foreign trade and customs duties that will still be in force in 2026.
• HES code: A personal health/travel code from the COVID‑19 period; gradually lifted after March 2022, and a practice that is not practically used between 2023–2026.

If you want to grow your business healthily in 2026:

• Correctly identify the GTIP / HS codes of your products,
• Follow the updated versions of tariff tables and explanatory notes,
• Include obtaining professional support in customs, tax, and international structuring in your plans.

This approach not only secures your current operations; it also allows you to act strategically while opening up to new markets.

Disclaimer

This text has been prepared for general informational purposes; it does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice.
Customs tariff schedules, health practices, and travel rules may change over time.
Before making any decisions, you should check the regulations and announcements published by the official authorities of the relevant country for the current situation, and if necessary, seek advice from a professional expert in the field.
Corpenza and the author cannot be held responsible for the consequences of decisions made based on the information in this text.