Maritime shipping from China to Greece is now one of the main pillars of economic cooperation between the two countries. In 2024, bilateral trade saw significant growth, with China exporting approximately $1.18 billion worth of goods to Greece, while Greek exports to China reached around $53.1 million.
These trade interactions have boosted key industries such as electronics, machinery, and textiles, playing an important role in supporting the GDP of both nations.
The Port of Piraeus plays a crucial role in this process; as one of Europe’s most important gateways, it provides optimized shipping routes for cargo movement and offers a variety of shipping methods , allowing businesses to choose the best balance between speed, cost, and flexibility.
For companies looking to enter this trade route, partnering with reliable logistics providers like Top Shipping can turn all logistical challenges into opportunities, ensuring sustainable and profitable trade between China and Greece.
August 2025 Shipping Update: China → Greece
Here’s the latest average market rates and transit times for shipments from China to Greece (August 2025):
Costs
- Air Freight (1,000 kg+): from $4.17 per kg.
- Sea Freight (20ft Container to Piraeus/Thessaloniki): from $1,600 per 20′.
- Sea Freight (40ft Container to Piraeus/Thessaloniki): from $2,900 per 40′.
- Rail & Truck Combination (40ft HQ to Athens/Thessaloniki): from $8,300 per 40′ HQ.
Delivery Times
| Mode of Transport | Route (China → Greece) | Estimated Cost | Average Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight (Express / Door-to-Door) | Major Chinese airports → Athens | ~$5.0 / kg (1,000 kg+) | 3–6 days |
| Sea Freight (20′ Container) | Shanghai / Ningbo → Piraeus | ~$1,600 per 20′ | 22–28 days |
| Sea Freight (40′ Container) | Shenzhen / Qingdao → Piraeus | ~$2,900 per 40′ | 22–28 days |
| Rail Freight (40′ Container) | Xi’an / Chengdu → Thessaloniki (via Europe) | ~$6,700 per 40′ | 18–24 days |
Shipping Options from China to Greece
B2B importers shipping to Greece rely on accurate transit time estimates to efficiently plan inventory and meet customer commitments. Actual delivery times can vary depending on the shipping method, the completeness of documentation, and seasonal fluctuations, so careful planning is essential to avoid delays.
| Shipping Method | Transit Time (Port/Airport to Port/Airport) | Customs Clearance & Handling | Total Estimated Delivery Time (Door-to-Door) | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight | 3–7 days | 2–4 days | 5–10 days | Urgent shipments, electronics, fashion, high-value items |
| Sea Freight (FCL 20′) | 22–28 days | 3–5 days | 25–33 days | Bulk shipments, machinery, automotive parts |
| Sea Freight (FCL 40′) | 22–28 days | 3–5 days | 25–33 days | Large volume bulk shipments |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | 25–30 days | 5–7 days | 30–37 days | Small to medium volumes, mixed cargo |
Container Types for Ocean Freight from China to Greece
Choosing the right container for shipments from China to Greece can save time and reduce costs.
- Standard Containers: Ideal for general cargo like electronics, machinery, and textiles.
- Refrigerated Containers: Keep perishable or sensitive goods, such as food or chemicals, at the correct temperature.
- High Cube Containers: Offer extra space for bulky shipments without a major increase in cost.
Selecting the appropriate container ensures efficient shipping, cost control, and smooth handling at Greek ports like Piraeus.
Here’s a quick guide to container sizes and their ideal cargo.
| Container Type | Internal Dimensions (L × W × H) | Max Volume (CBM) | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20′ Standard (TEU) | 5.90 m × 2.35 m × 2.39 m | 33–37 | Smaller shipments, heavy cargo, machinery, metals, tiles |
| 40′ Standard (FEU) | 12.03 m × 2.35 m × 2.39 m | 67–76 | Large-volume shipments, electronics, packaged goods |
| 40′ High Cube (HC) | 12.03 m × 2.35 m × 2.69 m | 76–86 | Light, bulky items, furniture, textiles, packaging foam |
| LCL (Less than Container Load) | Shared container space | 1–25 | Cost-effective for SMEs, irregular shipments, samples |
| Reefer Container (40′ HC) | 11.58 m × 2.29 m × 2.55 m | 67.7 | Perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, food products |
| Open Top Container (40′ HC) | 12.03 m × 2.35 m × 2.67 m | 75.55 | Oversized cargo, heavy machinery, construction materials |
| Flat Rack Container (40′ HC) | 12.03 m × 2.35 m × 2.39 m | 53–60 | Extremely heavy or irregular-shaped cargo, vehicles, industrial equipment |
Efficient Door to Door Delivery to Greece
Smooth and timely shipping from China to Greece is essential for a reliable supply chain. Whether sending samples, high-value parcels, or full container loads, fast delivery with minimal handling ensures your business runs efficiently. Accurate documentation, customs support, and real-time tracking help prevent delays at key Greek ports such as Piraeus and Thessaloniki. By choosing the right method—Express, Air, or Sea—importers can optimize speed, cost, and reliability.
Door-to-Door Shipping Process (China → Greece)
- Order Preparation: Confirm order details, packaging, and labeling according to Greek import regulations.
- Documentation: Prepare essential documents, including commercial invoice, packing list, and certificate of origin.
- Pickup & Consolidation: Goods are collected from the supplier and consolidated at the shipping facility.
- Transport to Port/Airport: Cargo is moved to the departure port or airport in China.
- Customs Clearance (China): Export clearance is completed before departure.
- Ocean or Air Transport: Goods are shipped via chosen method (Sea, Air, or Express).
- Customs Clearance (Greece): Import documentation is checked, duties and taxes are applied.
- Delivery to Destination: Cargo is transported from Greek port/airport to the final door address.
DDP Shipping from China to Greece
DDP is a shipping term under Incoterms where the seller assumes full responsibility for delivering goods to the buyer’s door in Greece, including all shipping costs, export and import duties, taxes, and customs clearance.
With DDP:
- The seller handles transportation from China to Greece.
- All customs duties, taxes, and fees are prepaid by the seller.
- The buyer receives the goods at their location without worrying about paperwork, customs, or additional charges.
DDP is ideal for buyers who want a hassle-free, door-to-door service, ensuring smooth delivery and full cost transparency.
Amazon FBA Shipping Greece
We handle the complete shipping process to Amazon fulfillment centers in Athens and Thessaloniki, ensuring your products arrive FBA-ready, fully packaged, and accurately labeled.
With our end-to-end service, timely delivery, and full compliance with Greek import regulations, you can focus on growing your brand, boosting sales, and reaching Greek customers effortlessly.
Express Shipping from China to Greece
For urgent shipments, Express Shipping from China to Greece offers the fastest and most reliable way to deliver goods. This service is ideal for samples, high-value parcels, and time-sensitive products, ensuring that shipments reach Greek ports and distribution centers, including Piraeus and Thessaloniki, within just a few days. With accurate tracking, full customs support, and minimal handling, businesses can maintain supply chain efficiency, meet tight deadlines, and keep operations running smoothly.
Advantages of Express Shipping
- Fast Delivery: Goods reach their destination in the shortest possible time, ideal for urgent or time-sensitive shipments.
- Reliable and Secure: High-value items and critical cargo are handled with care, reducing the risk of damage or loss.
- Minimal Handling: Fewer transfers and touchpoints mean lower chances of delays or errors.
- Tracking & Transparency: Real-time shipment tracking allows businesses to monitor progress and plan accordingly.
- Customs Support: Expert assistance ensures smooth clearance at ports and airports, avoiding unnecessary delays.
- Operational Efficiency: Quick delivery helps maintain inventory levels, meet deadlines, and keep supply chains running smoothly
Express Shipping Suited For
- Urgent Shipments: Time-sensitive orders that must arrive quickly.
- High-Value Goods: Electronics, jewelry, and other valuable items needing careful handling.
- Samples & Prototypes: Small shipments for testing, evaluation, or presentation.
- Perishable Products: Items like food, pharmaceuticals, or temperature-sensitive goods.
- Critical Business Supplies: Components or materials that keep operations running without delays.
Shipping from China to Greece Transit Time
For B2B importers shipping to Greece, accurate transit time estimates are crucial for effective inventory management and meeting customer commitments. Actual delivery times can vary depending on the chosen shipping method, completeness of documentation, and seasonal factors, so planning ahead ensures smoother operations and timely fulfillment at Greek ports like Piraeus and Thessaloniki.
This table helps you understand how long shipments typically take from origin to destination and which shipping methods work best for different types of cargo, ensuring efficient, timely, and reliable delivery.
| Shipping Method | Transit Time (Port/Airport to Port/Airport) | Customs & Handling | Total Estimated Delivery Time (Door-to-Door) | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Express Courier (DHL/FedEx/UPS) | 2–4 days | 1–2 days | 3–6 days | Urgent parcels, samples, eCommerce shipments |
| Air Freight (Standard) | 3–7 days | 2–3 days | 5–10 days | Medium-weight shipments, time-sensitive B2B cargo |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | 22–28 days | 3–5 days | 25–33 days | Small to medium shipments, cost-effective option |
| Sea Freight (FCL – 20ft) | 20–26 days | 3–5 days | 23–31 days | Large shipments, full container loads |
| Sea Freight (FCL – 40ft) | 21–27 days | 3–5 days | 24–32 days | Large-volume cargo, cost-efficient |
Transit Time Factors and Solutions
Several key factors can influence the shipping time from China to Greece:
- Shipping Method: Air, sea, rail, and express services vary in speed; choosing the right method ensures faster delivery.
- Customs Clearance: Incomplete documentation or cargo inspections can cause delays at major Greek ports like Piraeus and Thessaloniki.
- Port Congestion: Busy ports and high cargo volumes may slow down the shipping process.
- Seasonal Demand: Peak periods, such as summer holidays or sales seasons, can extend transit times.
By managing these factors carefully, importers can ensure fast, reliable, and hassle-free delivery of their shipments.
Solutions to Reduce Delays
- Select the Right Shipping Method: Use air, express, or rail for urgent shipments to ensure faster transit to Greek ports like Piraeus and Thessaloniki.
- Ensure Complete Documentation: Accurate commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin help avoid customs delays.
- Plan Around Peak Seasons: Schedule shipments to bypass busy periods such as summer holidays or sales seasons in Greece.
- Partner with Experienced Freight Forwarders: Professionals can handle customs efficiently and optimize shipping routes .
- Use Real-Time Tracking: Monitor your shipment throughout its journey to quickly resolve any issues.
- Consolidate Shipments Efficiently: Proper packaging and load management reduce handling delays and speed up delivery.
Holiday & Peak Season Considerations for Shipping from China to Greece
Shipping from China to Greece can face delays during major holidays and peak seasons, such as Chinese New Year, Greek summer holidays, or global sales periods. During these times, ports like Piraeus and Thessaloniki experience higher cargo volumes, which can increase transit times and shipping costs. Planning shipments in advance and considering faster shipping options can help avoid delays and ensure timely delivery.
Shipping Costs & Transparent Pricing
For B2B importers shipping from China to Greece, knowing the total landed cost is essential for accurate budgeting and avoiding unexpected expenses. Costs can vary depending on shipping method, cargo type, and seasonal demand, as well as customs duties and port fees at Greek ports like Piraeus and Thessaloniki. Careful calculation helps businesses plan effectively, optimize pricing, and maintain smooth supply chain operations.
| Service Type | Cost Range | Minimum Charge | Best For | Estimated Transit Time (Door-to-Door) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Express Courier | $12–18/kg | $50 | Documents, samples, urgent or high-value items | 3–6 days |
| Air Freight | $7.50–8.50/kg (1,000kg+) | $300 | Time-sensitive B2B cargo, electronics, fashion goods | 5–10 days |
| Sea Freight (FCL – 20ft) | $2,900–3,800/container | N/A | Large shipments, full container loads | 23–31 days |
| Sea Freight (FCL – 40ft) | $3,500–4,200/container | N/A | High-volume shipments | 24–32 days |
| Sea Freight (LCL) | $140–280/CBM | $200 | Small to medium shipments, cost-effective | 25–33 days |
Factors Affecting Shipping Costs from China to Greece
Several key factors influence the cost of shipping goods from China to Greece:
- Shipping Method: Air, sea, rail, and express services vary significantly in price. Air and express are faster but more expensive, while sea freight is cost-effective for bulk shipments.
- Cargo Type & Weight: Heavy, oversized, or fragile items may incur higher charges due to special handling or packaging requirements.
- Container Type & Volume: Full container loads (FCL) are generally more economical per unit than less-than-container loads (LCL). High-cube or refrigerated containers increase costs.
- Seasonal Demand: Peak periods, such as Chinese New Year or Greek summer holidays, can raise freight rates and port fees.
- Customs & Duties: Import taxes, port charges, and documentation fees at Greek ports (e.g., Piraeus, Thessaloniki) affect total shipping costs.
- Additional Services: Insurance, tracking, and door-to-door delivery add to the total cost but improve reliability and convenience.
By understanding these factors, businesses can budget accurately, choose the optimal shipping method, and avoid unexpected expenses when importing from China to Greece.
Common Import Duty Examples for Greece
Greece charges import duties based on HS codes , and a standard 24% VAT applies to the total landed cost (product, shipping, insurance, and duties). Some items, like luxury or regulated goods, may have extra taxes.
| Product Category | Customs Duty Rate | VAT Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electronics (e.g., mobile phones, laptops) | 0% – 5% | 24% | Includes consumer electronics; rates vary based on classification. |
| Clothing & Apparel | 10% – 12% | 24% | Encompasses garments, textiles, and fabrics. |
| Footwear | 10% – 15% | 24% | Covers all types of shoes and boots. |
| Toys | 0% – 5% | 24% | Pertains to children’s toys and games. |
| Machinery & Industrial Equipment | 1% – 5% | 24% | Includes industrial machinery and equipment. |
| Furniture | 0% – 5% | 24% | Encompasses home and office furniture. |
| Cosmetics & Personal Care | 5% – 8% | 24% | Covers skincare, haircare, and beauty products. |
| Sports Equipment | 3% – 6% | 24% | Includes fitness gear, bicycles, and sporting goods. |
| Books & Stationery | 0% | 24% | Applies to printed books and office supplies. |
| Automotive Parts | 5% – 10% | 24% | Covers car parts, accessories, and engines. |
| Food & Beverages | 5% – 12% | 24% | Includes packaged foods, drinks, and snacks. |
| Medical Equipment | 0% – 2% | 24% | Encompasses hospital equipment and diagnostic tools. |
| Textiles & Fabrics | 8% – 12% | 24% | Covers raw textiles, yarns, and fabric rolls. |
Greece Customs & Import Documentation Requirements
| Document Type | Required For | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | All imports | Declares the value of goods for calculating Greek customs duties and VAT. Must be accurate to avoid fines or clearance delays. |
| Packing List | All shipments | Details cargo content for inspection and verification. Helps Greek Customs classify goods efficiently. |
| Bill of Lading / Air Waybill (AWB) | Sea, air, rail freight | Proof of shipment and contract of carriage between shipper and carrier. |
| Certificate of Origin | Goods eligible for preferential duty rates | Confirms origin to claim reduced customs rates under trade agreements (e.g., EU-China agreements). |
| Import Declaration (SAD) | All commercial cargo | Mandatory electronic filing for clearance through Greek Customs. Speeds up processing and ensures compliance. |
| Compliance Certificates / Licenses | Electronics, machinery, medical devices, chemicals, food | Ensures compliance with Greek standards, safety regulations, and industry-specific rules. |
| EORI Number | All commercial imports | Required registration for importers to process customs clearance and VAT reporting in Greece. |
| Insurance Certificate | All shipments | Proof of coverage for loss or damage during transit; often required by freight forwarders or buyers. |
| Proforma Invoice | Samples, quotations, pre-shipment approval | Used for preliminary customs assessment, cost estimates, or import approvals. |
Customs Clearance Tips for Shipping to Greece
- Prepare Accurate Documentation: Ensure your commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading air waybill are complete and correct to avoid delays.
- Use Correct HS Codes: Classify goods precisely under EU tariff codes to prevent fines or miscalculated duties.
- EORI Registration: All importers must have an EORI number to process customs and VAT in Greece.
- Include Certificates & Licenses: Certain products (electronics, medical devices, food) require compliance certificates.
- Check Import Duties & VAT: Factor in duties and 24% VAT for accurate landed cost calculations.
- Work with Experienced Freight Forwarders: Partnering with professionals familiar with Greek ports like Piraeus or Thessaloniki can streamline clearance.
Customs Clearance Methods & Incoterms for Shipping China to Greece
| Incoterm | Seller’s Responsibility | Buyer’s Responsibility | Best Suited For | Estimated Transit Time (China → Greece) | Estimated Cost Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DDP Incoterm (Delivered Duty Paid) | All costs and risks to deliver goods to buyer’s premises, including import duties and taxes. | Receive goods at agreed location. | Buyers seeking hassle-free, door-to-door delivery. | Sea: 25–40 days; Air: 5–12 days | Seller covers all costs (freight, insurance, duties, VAT, delivery). |
| DAP incoterm (Delivered At Place) | Delivery to agreed destination port or location in Greece. | Customs clearance, import duties, VAT, and inland transport. | Experienced importers managing customs locally. | Sea: 20–35 days; Air: 5–10 days | Seller pays freight; buyer covers import duties, VAT, and inland transport. |
| CIF incoterm(Cost, Insurance, Freight) | Shipping and insurance to Greek port. | Customs clearance, import duties, VAT, and inland delivery. | Port-to-port shipments needing insurance coverage. | Sea: 20–35 days; Air: 5–10 days | Seller pays freight & insurance; buyer handles customs duties, VAT, and inland transport. |
| FOB Incoterm(Free On Board) | Goods loaded onto vessel at Chinese port. | International freight, customs, VAT, and delivery. | Importers managing their own shipping and logistics. | Sea: 20–35 days; Air: 5–10 days | Buyer pays all costs from port of loading onwards (freight, insurance, customs duties, VAT, inland transport). |
Prohibited and Restricted Items
Shipping to Greece means knowing the local import rules. Some items are banned, and others need special permits or certificates. Knowing these rules helps you avoid delays, fines, or confiscation at customs.
We’ve created a simple table of restricted and prohibited items in Greece to make your shipping process easier and worry-free.
| Category | Prohibited Items | Restricted / Conditional Items |
|---|---|---|
| Dangerous Goods & Weapons | Firearms, ammunition, explosives, fireworks, pepper spray | Knives over certain length, chemicals requiring permits, flammable liquids with restrictions |
| Endangered Species & Cultural Artifacts | Ivory, exotic animal skins, endangered wildlife | Antiques, cultural artifacts – require import permits and CITES certificates |
| Food, Alcohol & Agricultural Products | Uncertified fresh meat, dairy, and unlicensed alcohol | Meat, dairy, fish, honey, live plants – must have EU health or phytosanitary certificates |
| Cosmetics & Personal Care | Products containing banned or unsafe ingredients | Must comply with EU cosmetic regulations and labeling requirements |
| Medical Devices & Pharmaceuticals | Unregistered drugs, unapproved medical devices | Registered medical devices; prescription medicines require official EU authorization |
| Currency | Counterfeit or illegal funds | Cash above €10,000 must be declared to Greek Customs |
| Electronics & Batteries | Non-compliant electronics, unsafe batteries | Lithium batteries, drones, or devices with radio transmitters must comply with EU safety and transport rules |
Key Ports in China and Greece for Shipping
Major Origin Ports in China for Shipments to Greece
- Shanghai (SHACN): China’s largest container port, perfect for high-volume shipments to Greek ports.
- Shenzhen/Yantian (SZXCN): Electronics, consumer goods, and fashion hub with reliable sea and air freight options to Greece.
- Guangzhou (CANCN): Manufacturing center offering flexible sea-air routes for urgent deliveries.
- Ningbo (NGBCN): Cost-effective choice for both LCL (Less than Container Load) and FCL (Full Container Load) shipments.
- Qingdao (TAOCN): Northern port suitable for bulk cargo, machinery, and industrial goods.
Major Destination Ports in Greece
- Piraeus: Greece’s largest port, strategically located for industrial and consumer distribution.
- Thessaloniki: Northern hub, ideal for machinery, textiles, and general cargo.
- Patras: Western port serving bulk shipments, food products, and regional distribution.
- Heraklion: Supports specialized cargo and imports to Crete and surrounding areas.
Careful route planning, combined with experienced logistics partners, ensures shipments from China to Greece arrive safely, on schedule, and ready for distribution throughout the country.
Major Air Freight Hubs for China to Greece Shipments
Key Airports in China for Shipments to Greece
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG): China’s largest air cargo hub, ideal for electronics, textiles, and general merchandise with frequent flights to Greek airports.
- Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN): Southern gateway for automotive parts, consumer goods, and industrial machinery.
- Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX): Hub for high-tech electronics, fashion, and urgent shipments with fast customs processing.
- Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK): Northern hub for samples, medical equipment, and time-sensitive cargo.
- Ningbo Lishe International Airport (NGB): Growing hub for industrial and consumer goods, offering cost-efficient air cargo options.
Major Airports in Greece
- Athens International Airport (ATH): Greece’s main air cargo hub, serving both domestic and international trade lanes; ideal for electronics, textiles, and high-value goods.
- Thessaloniki Airport (SKG): Northern Greece hub, perfect for machinery, consumer products, and urgent shipments.
- Heraklion Airport (HER): Supports specialized cargo and perishable goods to Crete and nearby islands.
Shipping Platforms & Freight Partners for China to Greece
DHL Express – Fast & Dependable
- Transit Time: 3–5 business days from major Chinese cities (e.g., Shanghai, Shenzhen) to Athens or Thessaloniki.
- Coverage: Direct delivery to Greece’s primary hubs, including Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion.
- Best For: Urgent shipments, high-value products, or time-sensitive goods.
- TopShipping Tip: Ensures fast, secure delivery with minimal handling, keeping your supply chain reliable.
FedEx Express – Efficient & Wide-Ranging
- Transit Time: 4–6 business days from China to Greece, depending on origin and destination.
- Coverage: Ideal for e-commerce packages, samples, and important documents across all major and regional cities.
- Best For: Small to medium businesses seeking dependable, cost-effective express solutions.
- TopShipping Tip: Offers consistent transit times and professional customs handling, reducing delays.
UPS Express – B2B & High-Volume Friendly
- Transit Time: 4–6 business days from China to Greece, with strong domestic logistics support.
- Coverage: Handles larger shipments, Amazon FBA deliveries, and bulk B2B cargo efficiently.
- Best For: Exporters with frequent, high-volume shipments requiring predictable schedules.
- TopShipping Tip: Minimizes risk of delays and ensures timely delivery for heavy or recurring shipments.
International Freight Forwarder from China to Greece
Move your shipments from China to Greece seamlessly with TopShipping, your trusted international logistics partner. From pickup at your supplier’s warehouse in China to delivery at homes or warehouses in Athens, Thessaloniki, or Heraklion, we ensure secure, timely, and stress-free transport at every stage of the journey.
How to Select the Right Freight Forwarder for Greece?
Choosing the right freight partner is essential for efficient shipments from China to Greece.
Focus on these key factors:
- Proven Experience: Forwarders familiar with China–Greece routes deliver consistent and reliable service.
- Strong Local Network: Partners in both China and Greek ports, like Piraeus and Thessaloniki, ensure smooth logistics.
- Comprehensive Services: From warehousing and consolidation to last-mile delivery, choose a provider that covers all stages.
- Customs Expertise: Knowledge of Greek import rules and documentation prevents delays and fines.
- Transparent Costs: Clear, all-inclusive pricing with no hidden charges avoids unexpected expenses.
- Safe Handling: Proper care for fragile, oversized, or high-value cargo is crucial.
- Responsive Communication: Real-time updates and support keep you informed throughout the shipment.
- End-to-End Tracking: Complete visibility from origin to final delivery ensures peace of mind.
Partnering with a forwarder who meets these standards guarantees timely, secure, and stress-free shipping to Greece.
Shipping Made Simple: From China to Greece in Easy Steps
1. Plan & Understand Import Rules
- Define the type of goods you are shipping (weight, volume, value, sensitivity)
- Review Greece’s import regulations and required documents (such as CE certification or health permits).
- Estimate all costs in advance (freight, insurance, duties, and 24% VAT) to avoid unexpected expenses.
2. Choose the Right Incoterms
- Decide which Incoterm (FOB, CIF, DAP, or DDP) best fits your shipment.
- Clearly outline which party is responsible for costs and risks at every stage.
3. Prepare All Shipping Documents
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)
- Certificate of Origin
- Special permits if required (health, safety, or EU compliance)
4. Pack & Label Professionally
- Use durable packaging (moisture-resistant cartons or strong pallets).
- Each package should display complete details: shipper, consignee, order number, and handling instructions.
- For added safety, use seals or tamper-proof packaging.
5. Select the Best Transport Mode
- Sea Freight (FCL/LCL): Cost-efficient for bulky or non-urgent cargo.
- Air Freight: Suitable for high-value or time-sensitive goods.
- Rail Freight: Balanced option from China to Europe, then onward to Greece.
- Express Courier (DHL, UPS, FedEx): Fastest choice, typically 3–6 days.
6. Partner with a Reliable Freight Forwarder
- Choose a forwarder with proven experience on the China–Greece route.
- Consider value-added services like cargo insurance, consolidation, or door-to-door delivery.
7. Export Clearance in China
- Your supplier must prepare export documents and complete necessary payments.
- Obtain Chinese customs approval before loading cargo.
8. International Transport
- Goods are loaded at the chosen port or airport in China.
- Use online tracking systems to monitor shipment progress.
9. Customs Clearance in Greece
- Submit all documents to Greek Customs.
- Pay applicable import duties and 24% VAT
- Once cleared, the goods are released for local transport.
10. Inland Delivery in Greece
- Shipments move from the entry point (e.g., Port of Piraeus or Athens Airport) to your warehouse or final destination.
- Under DDP terms, your freight forwarder manages the full delivery process.
11. Final Check & Documentation
- Inspect the goods upon arrival for quantity and condition.
- Keep all shipping records for accounting and compliance purposes.
- Evaluate your freight forwarders performance to improve future shipments.
Final Review
Shipping from China to Greece can be smooth and cost-effective when you understand the available methods, transit times, and customs regulations. Whether you choose sea freight for bulk shipments, air freight for speed, or rail and multimodal solutions for balance, the right planning ensures efficiency and savings.
To avoid delays and unnecessary costs, it’s essential to work with a reliable freight forwarder who understands both Chinese and Greek logistics. Topshipping, as a trusted global logistics partner, offers tailored solutions for shipping from China to Greece. From handling paperwork and customs clearance to ensuring on-time delivery, Topshipping makes the process simple, safe, and affordable.
If you’re ready to ship from China to Greece, choose Topshipping as your logistics partner and experience stress-free, reliable, and efficient freight services.
FAQs: Shipping to Greece
How long does shipping from China to Greece take?
Shipping by sea usually takes 25–35 days, depending on the port and route. Air freight is much faster, around 5–10 days, while express couriers can deliver in 3–7 days.
What is the cheapest way to ship goods from China to Greece?
The most cost-effective option is usually sea freight (FCL or LCL), especially for larger shipments. For smaller, urgent packages, air freight or express shipping is better.
Do I need a freight forwarder for shipping to Greece?
Yes. A freight forwarder like Topshipping can manage customs clearance, shipping paperwork, and transport logistics to make the process smooth and stress-free.
What are the main ports in Greece for shipments from China?
The major entry point is Piraeus Port, one of the largest in Europe. Other ports include Thessaloniki and Heraklion, depending on the destination.
How much does it cost to ship from China to Greece?
Costs vary by weight, volume, and method. Sea freight is the cheapest, while air freight and express shipping cost more but are faster. A forwarder like Topshipping can provide a tailored quote.
Are there import taxes or duties when shipping from China to Greece?
Yes. Since Greece is part of the EU, customs duties and VAT (Value Added Tax) apply. Your freight forwarder will guide you through the process.
Can Topshipping handle my shipment from China to Greece?
Absolutely. Topshipping specializes in sea, air, and express shipping from China to Greece, ensuring competitive rates, fast delivery, and full customs support.
