Import Household Goods to Greece
Planning a move to Greece?
Moving to Greece in 2026: customs, shipping times & more
Applies to people shipping their own used household and personal goods to Greece as Unaccompanied Personal Effects (UPE).
You must lodge an electronic import declaration via ICISnet and provide a detailed inventory, your transport document (AWB or bill of lading), and photo ID.
Biosecurity checks can apply to UPE in Greece. Items containing wood, plant material, animal products, or used outdoor gear may be inspected and need to be clean, dry, and clearly described.
Greece follows EU customs rules. Import VAT applies to commercial consignments from non-EU origins, and the EU low-value VAT exemption ended on 1 July 2021.
Minimum shipment size is a small studio apartment. No maximum size limit.
There are important things to know before you pack your boxes. From EU customs requirements to choosing the right residence status, a smooth move to Greece starts with good preparation and the right partner.
At Swift Cargo, we make international moving simple, secure, and stress-free. This page guides you through everything you need to know about shipping your belongings to Greece. You will find clear information about customs clearance, seasonal shipping patterns, and the minimum shipment size required. We also explain our door-to-door service, insurance options, and practical packing tips.
Whether you are relocating for work, family, or study, Swift Cargo and our local partners handle your move with care and efficiency. We manage the logistics and clearance steps, so you can focus on settling into life in Greece with peace of mind.
Our process
Fill out our standardized application on our platform.
Request a Quote
Tell us where you're moving and give an idea of what you wish to move. Most expats finish in under ten minutes.
Get Connected
Your Move Manager will tailor your route, advise on inventory, confirm appropriate permits, and find the right strategy for your family.
Finalise your Plan
You can relax. We will manage the packing and shipping to deliver your life safely to your new home.
Peak months
Planning your freight shipments around Greece’s peak seasons can save time and reduce costs. Here is what to expect through the year based on common port and airport patterns:
- June to September
Summer tourism drives higher volumes through ports and airports. Island routes and major gateways can feel busier, so build in extra buffer for handling and local delivery. - May to September (Meltemi season)
Strong Aegean winds can disrupt ferry and small port schedules. Sea freight to islands may face short notice delays, especially in mid-summer. - November to March
Winter storms can affect some island services and create weather-related holds. Mainland ports stay active, but allow flexibility for sea and road legs.
Customs
Greece applies EU customs law, with national procedures run by the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE). If you are shipping household goods or personal items, you must meet all documentation and inspection requirements.
Documents you need for personal goods
To clear your items through Greek Customs, you will typically need the following:
- Ocean Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
- Completed electronic import declaration lodged via ICISnet (AADE Imports System)
- Passport or national ID for the importer and, if used, a letter of authority for your representative
- Detailed inventory list, itemised and ideally in English
- Each package labelled with a list of contents
- Proof of residence status if you are claiming any personal effects relief
- Transfer-of-residence evidence , if you are applying for duty relief
- Full name and residential address in Greece for delivery and customs records
Quarantine and delays
Household and personal goods entering Greece may be inspected under EU plant and animal health rules, with checks coordinated by the relevant Greek Border Control Posts.
- Inspection timing depends on the shipment and whether risk goods are present.
- To reduce delays, clean items thoroughly before packing, especially anything that has touched soil, plants, or outdoor materials, and avoid untreated wood packaging.
For sea freight travellers
If you are travelling by sea, follow the arrival instructions from your carrier and Greek border authorities, and keep your shipping documents accessible in case customs asks for them.
Restricted goods
Drug Contraband
Explosives
Biohazard
Chemicals
Corrosives
Counterfeit
Ivory
Flammables
Firearms
Drugs
Fake Notes
Poison
Hazardous
Minimum shipment size for Greece
When shipping to Greece with Swift Cargo, there are minimum volume requirements to ensure efficient handling and delivery.
- Minimum shipment: Studio Apartment
This is the smallest shipment size accepted for freight or relocation services to Greece.
- No maximum size limit
Swift Cargo can manage shipments of any size, from small personal moves to full household relocations.
These minimums apply specifically to shipments entering Greece.
Download the customs forms
- Greek imports declaration (ICISnet / SAD): Independent Authority for Public Revenue (IAPR)
- EORI registration information: Online Registration with EORI (IAPR)
Contact Greek Customs
Taxes and duties
Understanding Greece’s import tax rules can help you avoid surprises during customs clearance. Here is what you need to know:
General tax rules
- Import duty and VAT depend on the HS code and your shipment type under EU rules, especially for goods arriving from outside the EU.
- However, import VAT applies to non-EU commercial consignments, and the EU low-value VAT exemption ended on 1 July 2021.
Tax exemptions
- Some used household goods may qualify for relief when transferring normal residence, but eligibility is case-by-case under EU customs relief rules.
- Relief applies only if the shipment meets AADE and EU transfer-of-residence conditions, including ownership and use requirements.
Duty-free status for official use
Some individuals or organisations may import goods without paying duties, provided the items are for official use. This can include:
- Diplomatic missions
- Government posts
- Staff on official assignment
To qualify, you must:
1. Contact AADE Customs
2. Confirm your EORI details
3. Provide documents supporting the exemption
This status may apply to embassy staff, foreign aid workers, or volunteers under specific missions, subject to Greek and EU rules.
Cargo insurance
Shipping goods across borders always comes with some risk. That is why cargo insurance is strongly recommended when sending valuable items to Greece.
Why you need insurance
Moving cargo by sea or air exposes your shipment to potential damage. Insurance can protect you against:
- Rough weather during transit
- Improper storage or handling
- Fumigation treatments
- Accidental loss or damage
What is covered
Coverage depends on your insurance provider. Most policies include:
- Protection during transport
- Coverage for specific risks (e.g. fire, theft, moisture damage)
- Limitations and exclusions based on your declared value
Always review the terms with your broker before finalising.
How to get insured
You can arrange cargo insurance through:
- A general insurance company
- A specialist broker
- Your bank
- Swift Cargo’s own insurance program.
Note: Our insurance is charged at 3% of your declared shipment value.
Visa requirements for moving to Greece
If you are planning to relocate to Greece, you will need the correct residence status or visa for your situation. Options vary by passport and purpose of stay. The best way to choose the right one is to check the official Greek and EU requirements and confirm which pathway you are eligible for.
Main visa categories
Most Greek residence or visa options fall into these categories:
Visitor visas
For short stays, tourism, or business visits
Working and skilled visas
For temporary or long-term work
Student and training visas
For education or professional development
Family and partner visas
For joining relatives or spouses in Greece
Note: If you are moving to Greece permanently, a work-based residence permit or a family permit is often the most appropriate, depending on your situation.
For detailed and up-to-date information, visit the official Greek government immigration portal.
List of shipping ports in Greece
Swift Cargo operates through major international gateways across Greece. Whether you are relocating or shipping goods, we provide both sea freight and air freight options to the destinations below:
List of shipping ports in Greece
Ports and shipping methods
- Athens (Piraeus) – Sea freight and air freight available
- Thessaloniki – Sea freight and air freight available
- Patras – Sea freight and air freight available
- Heraklion (Crete) – Sea freight and air freight available
- Other Greek gateways – Sea freight and air freight available
- Regional ports – Sea freight and air freight available
- Island routes – Sea freight available, air freight where served
- Mainland distribution hubs – Sea freight and air freight available
Transit time per destination
| From | To | Est. transit time |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles, United States | Bangkok, Thailand | 18-21 days |
| New York City, United States | Bangkok, Thailand | 24-26 days |
| Marseille, France | Bangkok, Thailand | 24-26 days |
| Sydney, Australia | Phuket, Thailand | 23-25 days |
| Melbourne, Australia | Bangkok, Thailand | 21-23 days |
| Cape Town, South Africa | Phuket, Thailand | 28-30 days |
| Shanghai, China | Bangkok, Thailand | 18-21 days |
| Incheon (Seoul), South Korea | Bangkok, Thailand | 21-24 days |
Door-to-door relocation service
Swift Cargo offers a full door-to-door moving service to Greece. From packing your goods to unpacking them in your new home, we take care of every step of the process.
1. Packing and Loading.
We offer professional packing services to make sure your items are safe and well protected during transport. Common packing materials:
- Packing boxes
Available in different sizes, designed to handle standard household items during shipping. - Bubble wrap
Used for fragile items like glasses, ceramics, and electronics to prevent breakage. - Wooden crates
Ideal for large or sensitive items. They offer extra resistance and protection, including against humidity. For non-EU origins, crates and pallets must be ISPM-15 compliant.
Full Packing Service: Do not want to pack yourself? No problem. Our team can pack all types of goods, including furniture and oversized items. Fill out the contact form and one of our consultants will organise your packing needs.
2. Pickup
Our agents collect the packed goods from your location or warehouse. All movements are tracked and documented, ensuring your shipment is handled securely.
3. Customs clearance
We manage the customs process for Greece. See the Customs section above for required documents, EORI needs, and inspection details.
4. Delivery and unloading
Once your shipment arrives in Greece, we deliver it directly to your home. Our team unloads all boxes at your doorstep.
5. Unpacking and setup
We also offer unpacking services. Our team places your goods where you want them, so you can settle in without stress.
Support team
Swift Cargo’s Support Team is built around one simple belief: shipping should never feel stressful, confusing, or impersonal. That’s why we take care of every client one by one, with real attention, real follow-ups, and real specialists who stay involved from start to finish.
When you work with Swift Cargo, you’re not passed around between random departments or forced to repeat yourself over and over: you’re supported by a dedicated logistics specialist who understands your shipment, your priorities, and your expectations. Our role is to make sure you feel comfortable, confident, and safe throughout the entire shipping process.
From pickup coordination to tracking updates, documentation, customs guidance, and delivery confirmation, our team stays reachable and proactive, ensuring you always know what’s happening and what comes next. Whether you need fast answers, reassurance, or expert advice, we’re here with the same specialist ready to help you, every step of the way.
Talk to an agent now
Import your vehicle
Bringing a car into Greece is possible but requires approval and compliance with EU and Greek import rules.
What you need
What you need
- Import permission and customs pre-check – Confirm before the car arrives
- Key documents – Passport or ID, registration papers, bill of lading, sales invoice, and ICISnet declaration
- Compliance – Your car must meet EU and Greek safety and emissions requirements
Costs to expect
- Import duty may apply
- Import VAT may apply
- Additional taxes may apply depending on vehicle type and value
Extra fees may apply for inspection, cleaning, or modifications.
We Can Help - Swift Cargo handles the process from start to finish: paperwork, transport, and customs.
Import your pets
Greece follows EU animal health and border control rules. Only pets meeting required health, vaccination, and entry conditions are allowed. Requirements vary by origin country and pet type, so confirm the latest rules before travel.
Key requirements
- Valid entry approval
Check the EU and Greek pet entry pathway that applies to your origin country before travel. - Microchip & Vaccinations
Your pet must be microchipped and up to date on rabies and other core vaccines required for EU entry. - Rabies Blood Test
A rabies titer test may be required depending on origin and travel history. - Border checks
Pets may be inspected at designated Border Control Posts on arrival. Any quarantine or follow-up measures depend on compliance with entry rules.
Eligibility by origin country
Banned dog breeds in Greece
Breed restrictions can apply by origin and purpose:
- Check breed rules before travel
- Confirm eligibility with authorities
- Rules vary by case
- Seek official guidance
- Do not assume approval without checks
We Can Help - From paperwork and vet checks to booking flights and border inspections. We make sure your pet arrives safely and legally.
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What our customers say – Greece moves
About Greece
Shipping activity in Greece
Greece is a major Mediterranean logistics hub, with steady sea and air freight volumes through gateways like Piraeus and Athens International Airport, plus strong regional links via Thessaloniki and key island ports.
National freight activity (all operators):
High volume
cargo shipments handled regularly
Large scale
containers processed across major ports
Consistent flow
air freight managed through main hubs
Greece cost of living
Relocating to Greece can mean a different cost profile depending on where you settle. Athens and central Thessaloniki tend to be the most expensive for rent and daily services, while smaller mainland towns may feel more affordable. Housing is usually the biggest adjustment for newcomers. Expect higher demand and seasonal price pressure in popular island areas, especially during summer. For many expats, day-to-day costs can feel moderate compared with Northern Europe, but still higher than in some parts of Asia or Eastern Europe.
Utilities, mobile service, and internet are common setup costs when you arrive. Prices and service quality vary by provider and by region, with cities offering the broadest choice. Groceries are widely available, with strong local produce markets in most areas, and imported specialty items costing more. Eating out ranges from low-cost casual meals to higher-end tourist venues. As a rule, island locations and major tourist districts are priced higher than mainland neighbourhoods.
Transportation costs depend on your city and commute style. Athens and Thessaloniki offer the widest public transit networks, while smaller towns may rely more on driving. Island travel can add extra seasonal expenses.
Income levels in Greece vary by sector and location. Your budget will depend on your profession, residency status, and where you live. Many newcomers find that choosing neighbourhoods carefully and planning for initial setup costs makes the transition easier.
Overall, moving to Greece can be very manageable with the right planning. Your biggest variables are housing, transport, and whether you live in a tourist-heavy area. Compare cities and regions based on your lifestyle, and budget for one-time relocation costs such as deposits, insurance, and registration. With preparation, Greece offers a practical base in Europe, strong transport links, and a comfortable day-to-day lifestyle.
Security in Greece
Security in Greece
Greece is generally considered a safe destination for expatriates. As with any country, safety can vary by city and neighbourhood, and urban areas tend to have more petty theft than smaller towns.
Official crime data in Greece is published by national authorities and statistical agencies. Most expatriates live safely without serious incidents. The more common risks are pickpocketing or bag theft in busy tourist zones and on public transport, especially during summer peaks.
Stay alert in crowded urban centres and tourist hotspots, where petty theft is more likely. Choose a secure neighbourhood, lock your home and vehicle, and stay informed about local advice. With normal precautions, most people enjoy a safe and comfortable life in Greece.
Infrastructure and public services in Greece
Greece offers a broad network of public facilities, with the strongest concentration in large cities. Education is available through public and private schools, and quality and specialisation can vary by region. Major cities provide the widest choice of international programmes and extracurricular options, while smaller towns may have fewer specialised services.
Healthcare in Greece includes public and private providers. Access depends on your residency and insurance status, and major cities offer the broadest range of hospitals, clinics, and specialist care. In more remote areas and islands, you may need to travel to larger centres for certain treatments.
Public services such as government administration, emergency response, and social support are widely available, but rural regions and some islands can have longer travel times to major facilities. Planning your location around the services you need can make daily life smoother.
For many expatriates, Greece offers reliable core services with the most comprehensive options in Athens and Thessaloniki. Tourist islands may have excellent seasonal services but fewer year-round specialists. Your day-to-day access to schools, hospitals, and public services will depend heavily on the region you choose.
Frequently asked questions
Shipping times to Greece depend on the origin country and the method you choose.
- Sea freight: Transit time varies by route, port schedules, and any customs or biosecurity checks on arrival.
- Air freight: Faster door-to-door option, with timing affected by flight availability and clearance steps.
Keep in mind that summer peak season and weather events like Meltemi winds can cause delays, especially for island routes. Our team will give you a personalised timeline based on your shipment details and preferred method.
Checklist for your Greece relocation
Checklist for your Greece relocation
Fill out the form with details about your move.
Receive custom quotes within 48 hours.
Choose the option that suits you best, and let our agents guide you through the process.
Request the required documentation to prepare for your arrival in Greece.
Track your shipment with our agents and receive updates at every step
(If necessary) Provide additional details to speed up customs clearance.
Move into your new home while we take care of delivering your goods.
