Guide to Sending Parcels to Greece

For a western traveller, Greece is best known for its islands and beaches - Corfu, Mykonos, Santorini - to name a few of its 2000-plus spots of land in the Ionian and Aegean Seas. However, it is the ancient Greek civilisation that has had a profound influence on the West, particularly: democracy, philosophy, architecture, art, cinema, and literature.

Greece may have arisen 2,800 years ago, but its e-commerce economy is a product of the 21st century; not only has it been growing but Greek businesses adapted to the challenges of the pandemic. You could say their efforts were Herculean, and worthy of an Olympic medal.

Information for this page was taken from the Greek General Directorate of Customs & Excise Taxes and the European Commission.

IconShipping Rates

Easily compare the best and cheapest shipping options to Greece through a variety of carriers using Secureship

Secureship provides safe and affordable shipping from Canada to Greece. In case you are an everyday shopper or a business, you can easily save up to 50% on your international shipping costs by way of accessing our group buying power.

find the cheapest way to ship to Greece from Canada
Get an estimate

IconEasy Tracking Information

Shipments through Secureship come with full, easy to read tracking information to Greece


IconDisclaimer

While we have made every effort to ensure that the information on this page is accurate, Customs laws and procedures change regularly so it is important to consult a licensed broker in Greece before shipping any goods.

Full tracking information for parcels to Greece is available with Secureship
Tracking #:780123123123
Tel: 1-800-463-3339
Signed By: Pikwalia @ Residence
Dec 11, 2024
8:49 am
Kalambaka, KA, GR
Delivered
Dec 10, 2024
7:18 am
Ioannina, IO, GR
In transit
Dec 9, 2024
9:03 pm
Larissa, LA, GR
International Clearance
Dec 9, 2024
8:14 am
Piraeus, PI, GR
In transit
Dec 9, 2024
12:17 am
Toronto, ON, CA
In transit
Dec 8, 2024
4:30 pm
Ottawa, ON, CA
Pickup Scan

IconTypes of Shipments

Not all types of shipments are created equal. Shipping a television will require different paperwork, duties, and taxes than shipping an accounting statement, for example.

Shipping Documents Only to GreeceDocuments Only

Shipping the following documents shipped from Canada to Greece are exempt from duty if they have no commercial value.

Document shipments include:

  • Bids
  • Diplomas
  • Examination papers Driver's licence
  • Visa applications

The following items may also be shipped from Canada to Greece duty-free if they meet the restrictions listed in the table below:

Item Restriction
Airline tickets Must be validated
Annual reports Must only be shipped to shareholders or company officials
Blueprints Must have no commercial value and are for intercompany use or as a bid invitation (for example, architectural plans for an EU contract)
Brochures Must be for intercompany use or for non-commercial purposes
Business cards A maximum of 15 cards is permitted
Cheques Only personalised cheques allowed
Credit cards Must be personalised
Event tickets (for concerts, stage performances, football (soccer) matches) A maximum shipment weight of 10 kg Cannot be from a printing company to a ticket sales office or an organiser of an event
Greeting cards and invitations Only if personalised
Manuals Only if technical and in a number appropriate to the purpose
Negatives, slides, or print films Only if sent to a press or publishing agency and have had no value added through press or editorial charges
Newsletters Only intercompany documents for internal use and with no commercial value Cannot be from a publisher or printing company
Newspapers Only if they have no commercial value
Stationery Must be personalised, have no commercial value, and the quantity is appropriate for non-commercial use
Traveller's cheques Personalised cheques only

Sources:
https://www.ups.com/ga/CountryRegs?loc=en_US

Shipping Gifts to GreeceShipping Gifts

Gift shipments sent to Greece from Canada with a value of €45 (about $65 CAD) or less will be exempt from duty.


Alcoholic drinks, tobacco products, cosmetics, and perfumes may also be shipped as gifts but with certain restrictions (see table below).

Items Restrictions
Alcoholic beverages Maximum of 1 L of distilled spirits Maximum of 2 L of wine
Tobacco products
  • 50 cigarettes; or
  • 25 cigarillos (maximum weight of 3 g per item); or
  • 10 cigars or 50 g of smoking tobacco
Perfumes or cologne 50 g or 250 mL
Coffee 500 g (extracts and essences 200 g)
Tea extracts or essences 40 g

Shipments from Individual-to-Individual

Gifts sent from an individual in Canada to an individual Greece of €45 (about $65 CAD) or less will be exempt from duty.

Some restrictions will apply to alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, cosmetics, and perfumes.

Shipments from Business-to-Business

Gifts shipped to a business in Greece from a business in Canada will incur duties and taxes no matter the value of the gift.

Shipments from Business-to-Individual

Gifts sent to an individual on behalf of a business address will also incur taxes and charges regardless of the value of the gift.

Gift Checklist

  • A commercial invoice must be included with your shipment
  • The words 'Gift Shipment' or 'Unsolicited Gift' are included on the commercial invoice, even if the shipment is sent at Christmas time (see sample)
  • List the items in the parcel and write the value of each
  • Sending more than one gift in the parcel? Wrap and tag each one individually.

Sample Commercial Invoice for Gifts

Ship To Invoice
Ioannis Kapodistrias
Athens 157 72
Greece

Phone: +30 21 0727 7000
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Personal Shipment / Gift Shipment

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
1 Each Gift Shipment: LEGO Star Wars Rebel UWing Fighter, 659 piece set

CA $79.99
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Gifts
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $79.99
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge


Multiple Gifts in One Shipment

Sending multiple gifts in one shipment is permitted as long as individual parcels enclosed are individually wrapped and tagged and the value does not exceed the limit of €45 (about $65 CAD).

Sample Commercial Invoice for Gifts

Ship To Invoice
Ioannis Kapodistrias
Athens 157 72
Greece

Phone: +30 21 0727 7000
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Unsolicited Gift: Consolidated Gift Package

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
1 Each Gift - Roger: LEGO Star Wars Rebel UWing Fighter, 659 piece set

CA $39.99
1 Each Gift - Erica: Handwoven French Canadian Catalogne Blanket

CA $49.99
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Gifts
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $89.98
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

Sources:
https://www.elta.gr/el-gr/%CE%B9%CE%B4%CE%B9%CF%8E%CF%84%CE%B5%CF%82/%CE%B1%CE%BB%CE%BB%CE%B7%CE%BB%CE%BF%CE%B3%CF%81%CE%B1%CF%86%CE%AF%CE%B1%CE%B4%CE%AD%CE%BC%CE%B1%CF%84%CE%B1/%CE%B5%CE%BA%CF%84%CE%B5%CE%BB%CF%89%CE%BD%CE%B9%CF%83%CE%BC%CF%8C%CF%82.aspx
https://www.elta.gr/Portals/0/pdf/%CE%A0%CE%AF%CE%BD%CE%B1%CE%BA%CE%B1%CF%82%20%20%CE%BC%CE%B5%20%CF%84%CE%B7%CE%BD%20%CF%84%CE%B5%CE%BB%CF%89%CE%BD%CE%B5%CE%B9%CE%B1%CE%BA%CE%AE%20%CE%BC%CE%B5%CF%84%CE%B1%CF%87%CE%B5%CE%AF%CF%81%CE%B9%CF%83%CE%B7%20%CF%84%CF%89%CE%BD%20%CF%84%CE%B1%CF%87%CF%85%CE%B4%CF%81%CE%BF%CE%BC%CE%B9%CE%BA%CF%8E%CE%BD%20%CE%B1%CE%BD%CF%84%CE%B9%CE%BA%CE%B5%CE%B9%CE%BC%CE%AD%CE%BD%CF%89%CE%BD.pdf

Shipping personal effects/belongings to GreeceShipping Personal Effects

People moving to reside in Greece can import their personal property exempt from duty and tax provided:

  • The intent is that they are used as household goods only
  • They have lived outside of Greece for least 2 consecutive years

Personal property means any items intended for the personal use of its owner and his or her family members. These goods include:

  • Household furniture and appliances
  • Clothing and linens
  • Portable instruments required for the practice of a profession or trade

NOTE: The following items are excluded from duty exemption:

  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Tobacco and tobacco products
  • Materials for professional use

Moving Temporarily

Students

Students moving to Greece temporarily to study may ship their personal belongings duty-free. They must provide proof of enrollment in an educational institution and a photocopy of their passport.

Personal belongings include:

  • Educational materials (paper, pens, calculator, computer, and books)
  • Furniture used for studying such as a chair and a desk
  • Household goods such as linens, footwear, and clothing
Non-Students

Non-students moving to live in Greece temporarily can import their goods without incurring duty and tax provided they are intended to be used as household goods and:

  • They have lived outside of Greece for at least 2 consecutive years
  • They must provide documentation such as an employment contract or certificate from an employer
  • Proof of residence in Greece or a certificate of registration

Moving Permanently

Returning Greek citizens may ship their goods free of duty providing:

  • They have lived outside Greece for more than 6 months (consecutive or not) per 12-month period before moving to Greece
  • All required documents have been approved by Greek Customs prior to the arrival of shipment
Personal Effects Checklist
  • A commercial invoice must be included with your shipment
  • Commercial invoice must clearly indicate 'Personal Effects' (see sample)
  • A detailed description of each item is provided
  • For students, proof of enrollment in a Greek educational institution

Sources:
https://www.aade.gr/sites/default/files/2021-02/FAQs_Persons_transferring_their_normal_residence_to_Greece_0.pdf
https://www.aade.gr/sites/default/files/2021-02/FAQs_Temporary_Importation-Use.pdf

Sample Commercial Invoice for Personal Effects

Ship To Invoice
Ioannis Kapodistrias
Athens 157 72
Greece

Phone: +30 21 0727 7000
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Personal effects being delivered to my new address.

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
5 Pairs Personal Effects: 5 pairs of various types of shoes

IN $40.00
1 Each Personal Effects: Arc'terix Winter Jacket

CA $478.00
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Personal Effects
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $678.00
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

Shipping Food, Chocolate, Candies to GreeceFood, Chocolate, Candies

Food and food items may be shipped to Greece providing they abide by the rules and standards established by the European Union.

You May Ship

  • Baked goods
  • Food supplements
  • Meat extracts and meat concentrates
  • Olives stuffed with fish
  • Pasta
  • Broths
  • Honey*
  • Powdered baby milk and food, and foods for special medical diets*
  • Cured, cooked, or smoked fish*

*Maximum of 2 kg

Do Not Ship

  • Meat and meat products
  • Milk and milk products
Food, Chocolate, Candies Checklist
  • Clearly indicate 'Food' on the commercial invoice in the General Description or Remarks section (see sample)
  • Ensure that your food, chocolate, or candies may be imported into the country
  • You are not shipping commercial quantities (for any duty & tax exemption)
  • Check with your carrier that they will accept food shipments

Sources:
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EL/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32004R0745(01)&from=en

Sample Commercial Invoice for Food, Chocolate, Candies

Ship To Invoice
Ioannis Kapodistrias
Athens 157 72
Greece

Phone: +30 21 0727 7000
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Food Shipment - Assorted chocolate bars in their original manufacturer's packaging

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
1 Box Nestle Chocolate Bars in original packaging expiring May 2021 (shelf life of 6 months or longer)

CA $20.00
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Permanent / Sold
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $20.00
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

Shipping Promotional Material to GreeceSamples

Commercial samples are shipped for demonstration purposes at exhibitions, meetings, and trade fairs. The intention is to promote future purchases by encouraging people to place orders of the samples, not to sell them.


Samples shipped from Canada to Greece may qualify for duty-free entry if:

  • Shipment weighs no more than 10 kg
  • They are of negligible value - maximum of €22 (about $32 CAD)
  • The goods are supplied directly from outside Greece
  • They are intended to promote orders of the product

NOTE:
An ATA carnet can be used to ship samples with no commercial value. See Temporary Imports section for more details.

Commercial Sample Checklist
  • A Commercial Invoice must be included with your shipment
  • Clearly indicate 'Commercial Samples' on the commercial invoice in the General Description & Detailed Description of Goods (see sample)
  • The item shipped has tearing, perforation, slashing, defacing, or has permanent marking clearing indicating the item as commercial sample

Sources:
https://www.aade.gr/sites/default/files/2018-05/egxeiridio_teloneiakwn_thematwn_maios2018.pdf

Sample Commercial Invoice for Commercial Sample

Ship To Invoice
Ioannis Kapodistrias
Athens 157 72
Greece

Phone: +30 21 0727 7000
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Commercial Sample - Not for Resale

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
1 Box Commercial Sample - Advanced reading copy of Dan Brown's novel.

CA $20.00
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Commercial Sample
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $20.00
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

Sending Promotional material to GreeceAdvertising Material

Printed material shipped to Greece from Canada is exempt from duty provided it is intended solely for advertising purposes. These items include:

  • Calendars
  • Catalogues
  • Instructions for use
  • Posters, brochures
  • Price lists
  • Unframed photographs

When shipping advertising material to Greece from Canada, ensure that:

  • Forms clearly show the name of the company that produces, sells, or leases the goods or that supplies the advertised services
  • A shipment with printed advertisements is restricted to a single product or service
  • Package weight is a maximum of 1 kg

Advertising material shipped for display at an exhibition, a fair or conferences may also be sent using an ATA carnet. See Temporary Imports for details.

Advertising Material Checklist
  • Commercial invoice must clearly indicate 'Promotional Material - Not for Resale' (see sample)
  • A detailed description of each item is provided
  • A commercial invoice must be included with your shipment

Sources:
https://www.aade.gr/sites/default/files/2018-05/egxeiridio_teloneiakwn_thematwn_maios2018.pdf

Sample Commercial Invoice for Promotional Material

Ship To Invoice
Ioannis Kapodistrias
Athens 157 72
Greece

Phone: +30 21 0727 7000
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Promotional Material - Not for Resale

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
1 Each Promotional Material: Not for Resale. Product pamphlets to hand out at trade show.

CA $163.00
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Promotional Material
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $163.00
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

Have your goods warranty repaired in GreeceRepairs

Sending a piece of equipment to be repaired in Greece is straightforward. Items shipped from Canada to Greece for repair will be duty and VAT free provided they are under warranty.

Similarly, free warranty repairs done in Canada and returned to Greece will not incur VAT.

Items Under Warranty

As Canada and Greece have a free-trade agreement (CETA), repairs under warranty returning to Canada from Greece are duty-free and will not be charged GST.

Items No Longer Under Warranty

Equipment no longer under warranty returning to Canada from Greece for repairs will be charged GST. The GST will be charged on the value of the repair and on any parts required for the repair.

Sending Product for Repair to Greece

Sending equipment for repair to Greece will be exempt from duty and VAT as long as the equipment was repaired under warranty.

Returning Repaired Product to Greece

When equipment under a warranty is sent to Canada it will not incur duty and taxes when they re-enter Greece.

Repair Checklist
  • Commercial invoice must clearly indicate 'REPAIR & RETURN' under the General Description or Remarks, and include the estimated time of return(see sample)
  • Include repair contract with shipment
  • Serial or product number and the cost of repairs should be indicated under the Detailed Description of Goods section
  • Include the original shipping documents or tracking number from when the item was first exported to Greece or exported to Canada (depending on which case applies)
  • A commercial invoice must be included with your shipment

Sources:
https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm-md/d8/d8-2-10-eng.html
https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/inward-processing_en

Sample Commercial Invoice for Warranty Repair

Ship To Invoice
Ioannis Kapodistrias
Athens 157 72
Greece

Phone: +30 21 0727 7000
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Repair and Return - Watch being sent for repair

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
1 Each Fossil Watch being sent for repair - Model E5, serial # 789456FG7E2 - Repair Cost $76.00

US $163.00
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Warranty Repair
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $163.00
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

Temporary Imports / Exports for shipments to GreeceTemporary Imports

Importing goods temporarily into Greece will be exempt from duties and taxes for a period up to 24 months. These temporary imports may include an article shipped to Greece for repair or for display at an exhibition.


Temporary imports often include the following:

  • Commercial samples
  • Items that will be used or displayed at an exhibition, fair, or trade show
  • Professional and scientific equipment
  • Tools and specialised equipment required for repairing, exploring, producing, or manufacturing
  • Instruments required to evaluate and test the operation of other goods and equipment
  • Materials and goods to be used for entertainment, for example concerts and artistic events

Qualifying for Duty & Tax Free Temporary Import

In order to import your goods duty and tax free into Greece, you can pick from Option 1 or 2 of the Temporary Import Methods listed below.

Each option has its pros and cons. Regardless, each of the following methods requires you to complete a Commercial Invoice (CI). More details below.

Option # Temporary Import Method Risk of paying
1 Commercial Invoice Only (no other documentation is provided) High - if broker cannot clear goods temporarily
2 Commercial Invoice + ATA Carnet Very Low
1. Complete a Commercial Invoice (CI) only


This is the simplest and quickest option. See example.

NOTE: You should be aware that shipping using this method doesn't guarantee that your items will be imported duty/tax free. Not all brokers will clear goods as temporary imports (i.e. UPS, Fedex, DHL) nor is it a guarantee that customs won't charge any duties and taxes.


2. Commercial Invoice (CI) + an ATA Carnet


Completing an ATA Carnet is great option for items that frequently travel in and out of the country. It's also great because once you have an ATA Carnet, it is accepted by 176 countries worldwide making the application process a one-time thing.

In addition to declaring your commercial invoice as a temporary import, you can get an ATA Carnet for the items that are of temporary nature.

ATA Carnets are beyond the scope of the article however, you can find more information here: http://www.chamber.ca/carnet/

NOTE: It is highly recommended to get an ATA Carnet for items that frequently travel in and out of the country and especially so when it is valued over $2,500 USD

In addition to the 2 options above, the following conditions must also be met in order to qualify for a duty and VAT free exemption:

  • Stay no longer than 24 months in Greece
  • The goods arrive and leave in the same condition, i.e. they undergo no repairs nor are they used in manufacturing
NOTE:
  • If the above conditions are not followed, duties and taxes will be charged as though the goods have been imported permanently.
  • Your Customs broker can clear goods of a temporary nature (FedEx, UPS, DHL, etc. typically CANNOT clear goods of temporary nature)
Temporary Imports Checklist
  • Commercial Invoice clearly stating 'Temporary Import'. This must be written in the General Description section and the Detailed Description of Goods. (see sample)
  • The goods arrive and leave in the same condition, i.e. they undergo no repairs nor are they used in manufacturing
  • Stay no longer than the period listed above
  • Include your ATA Carnet with your shipment (if applicable)
  • Include the expected return date or the date that it was originally received within the country (whichever applies)
  • Any above listed items not listed in this checklist

Sources:
https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/specific-use_en
https://www.aade.gr/sites/default/files/2018-05/egxeiridio_teloneiakwn_thematwn_maios2018.pdf

 

Sample Commercial Invoice for Temporary Imports

Ship To Invoice
Ioannis Kapodistrias
Athens 157 72
Greece

Phone: +30 21 0727 7000
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Temporary Imports - Trade show booth and display equipment returning Jan 2020

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
1 box Temporary Imports - Trade show booth and display equipment

CA $1032.00
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Temporary Imports
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $1032.00
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

Permanent Goods / Sold To an individual or business within GreecePermanent/Sold Goods

The duty threshold for shipments sent to Greece is €150 (about $220 CAD). This means that duty is applicable on any shipment valued above €150.

Starting 1 July 2021, all shipments, regardless of value, will be subject to VAT.

Occasional Shipper

If you only ship occasionally to Greece, for example, items sold on eBay, there isn't too much you need to do. You must:

  • Include 3 copies of the commercial invoice with your shipment
  • Provide a detailed description of the goods on the commercial invoice (in order to avoid customs delays).

NOTE:
An Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number is NOT needed if you are shipping as a private individual.

Regular Shipper

If you regularly sell and ship goods to Greece, we suggest you consult with licenced customs broker in Greece.


NOTE:
For additional information on importation of goods into Greece, you may click here

Sources:
https://www.elta.gr/el-gr/%CE%B9%CE%B4%CE%B9%CF%8E%CF%84%CE%B5%CF%82/%CE%B1%CE%BB%CE%BB%CE%B7%CE%BB%CE%BF%CE%B3%CF%81%CE%B1%CF%86%CE%AF%CE%B1%CE%B4%CE%AD%CE%BC%CE%B1%CF%84%CE%B1/%CE%B5%CE%BA%CF%84%CE%B5%CE%BB%CF%89%CE%BD%CE%B9%CF%83%CE%BC%CF%8C%CF%82.aspx
https://santandertrade.com/en/portal/international-shipments/greece/customs-procedures

Sample Commercial Invoice for Permanent/Sold Goods

Ship To Invoice
Ioannis Kapodistrias
Athens 157 72
Greece

Phone: +30 21 0727 7000
Carrier tracking number: 736534736
General Description:
Permanent/Sold: Parts and accessories for Canon B78n camera

Invoice number:

123456MGEP4916926


Customs Broker: UPS
Date: 28 May 2023
QTY Description of Goods C/O SubTotal
15 Each Camera Lenses: Canon EF 50mm, Canon EF 85mm & wide-angle lenses.

CA $132.00
Terms of Sale: None
Total number of packages: 1
Reason for export: Permanent/Sold
Contact Name: James Smith
Total Invoice Amount: $1980.00
Total Weight: 10.0 lbs
Declaration Statement: I hereby certify that information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge

IconRequired Documents

Shipping packages internationally requires a lot of documentation. This process alone can be confusing and time-consuming. So we’ve narrowed down what documents you might need and ranked them based on likeliness of being needed.

Document Type When? Details
Shipping Label / Bill of Lading Always required This is a label provided by the carrier (UPS, FedEx, DHL, etc.). Always required because the carrier needs to know the parcel's destination.
Commercial Invoice Required for all non-document shipments
For all non-document shipments, you will require 3 copies of the commercial invoice (to be included with your shipping labels). These are for customs purposes and need to be included inside a document pouch outside of the box.

When creating a shipment through the Secureship website, the system will help you create this document automatically.

B13a Required if value exceeds $2,000 per shipment or is a controlled good
A B13a is required if your shipment exceeds $2000 CAD or is a controlled good
and is destined to a country other than the US, Puerto Rico, or the US Virgin Islands

Learn more about the B13a form here.
Certificate of Origin (COO) Infrequently required

Allows a reduced or zero-rated import duty.
Canada has a preferential trade agreement with Greece. A COO proves that an item has been produced, manufactured or processed in Canada.

When an item with a COO is imported into Greece, it will incur a reduced or zero-rated import duty.
Certificate of Insurance (COI) Infrequently required

Shows that the shipment has been insured.
Banks may request a certificate of insurance when providing letters of credit for the goods. Otherwise, it is generally your choice whether to purchase insurance for the shipment.
ATA Carnet Infrequently required

Used to avoid duties and taxes on shipments of temporary nature.
If you ship goods of temporary nature to and from a country, you can obtain an ATA Carnet to expedite the customs clearance process and ensure that anything of temporary nature is not charged duties and taxes.

See Temporary import section
Packing list Infrequently required

No specific form is required, but generally includes information regarding:

  • The exporter, importer and transport company
  • Date of issue
  • Number of freight invoice
  • Type and number of packages
  • Contents of each package
  • Marks and numbers
  • Net weight, gross weight and measurements of each package

Prohibited & Restricted Imports

Prohibited goods are not allowed to be shipped to Greece while restricted goods indicate there are rules that apply to the amount or who may send them.

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics and psychotropic drugs
  • Firearms and ammunition
  • Counterfeit goods
  • Margarine of animal origin
  • Perishable items
  • Printed material offensive or counter to the public order or morality of Greece
  • Toys, playing cards, and games containing copper sulphate
  • Cross-border online purchases of tobacco products (e.g. cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, refill liquids) are strictly prohibited for individuals

Restricted Items

  • Medicines
  • Furniture
  • Vegetables and derived products
  • Plants and plant products for personal consumption (5 kg/person)

Sources:
https://www.elta.gr/Portals/0/pdf/%CE%9C%CE%B7%20%CE%B1%CF%80%CE%BF%CE%B4%CE%B5%CE%BA%CF%84%CE%AC%20%CE%B1%CE%BD%CF%84%CE%B9%CE%BA%CE%B5%CE%AF%CE%BC%CE%B5%CE%BD%CE%B1-%20%CE%93%CE%B5%CE%BD%CE%B9%CE%BA%CE%B5%CF%82%20%CE%91%CF%80%CE%B1%CE%B3%CE%BF%CF%81%CE%B5%CF%8D%CF%83%CE%B5%CE%B9%CF%82.pdf
https://www.canadapost-postescanada.ca/cpc/en/support/postal-services-information.page
https://www.elta.gr/el-gr/%CE%B9%CE%B4%CE%B9%CF%8E%CF%84%CE%B5%CF%82/%CE%B1%CE%BB%CE%BB%CE%B7%CE%BB%CE%BF%CE%B3%CF%81%CE%B1%CF%86%CE%AF%CE%B1%CE%B4%CE%AD%CE%BC%CE%B1%CF%84%CE%B1/%CE%B5%CE%BA%CF%84%CE%B5%CE%BB%CF%89%CE%BD%CE%B9%CF%83%CE%BC%CF%8C%CF%82.aspx
https://www.ups.com/ga/CountryRegs?loc=en_US

Duty & Taxes

Shipments to Greece have VAT and duty charges calculated using the CIF method, i.e. the sum of the customs value plus insurance fees plus freight costs.

CIF Value = Customs Value + Insurance Amount + Freight Costs

By knowing the CIF value of a shipment, you will be able to predict the duty and taxes owed by the recipient.

Thresholds

Some countries provide a duty and tax threshold (also called the de minimis value), which means that below a certain amount no duty or taxes are incurred on the import of that shipment.

In Greece, a shipment valued at €150 (about $220 CAD) or less will be exempt from duty; however, it will incur VAT regardless of its value.

Currency Euro €
Duty Exemption (De minimis Value) €150 (about $220 CAD)
Duty Calculation Method CIF
TAX (VAT) 24%
Tax Exemption
(De minimis Value)
€0*
Tax Calculation Method CIF

*From 1 July 2021, all shipments to Greece will incur VAT regardless of their value.


NOTE:
Even if an item was purchased before July 1, 2021 but arrives in Greece on or before 30 June 2021 but arrives in Greece on July 1 or later it will incur VAT.

Duties on Imports

Excise Taxes

Greece imposes excise duties on:

  • Alcoholic beverages and beverages containing added sugar or other sweetening matter
  • Tobacco and tobacco products

Luxury Tax

While CETA has reduced or removed duties on many goods traded between Canada and Greece, the following items will incur a luxury tax upon entry to Greece:

  • Furs
  • Animal skins
  • Pearls and jewellery
  • Precious metals and items coated with precious metals

  • Candy0%
  • Chocolate0%
  • Spirits and WinesVariable*
  • TobaccoVariable*
  • Books0%
  • Documents0%
  • Video Games & Consoles0%
  • Computers & Laptops0%
  • Tablets0%
  • Mobiles0%
  • Cameras0%
  • Accessories for Electronics0%
  • Coats0%
  • Beauty Products & Cosmetics0%
  • Jewellery0%
  • Shirts & Pants0%
  • Home Appliances0%
  • Toys0%
  • Sports Equipment0%

Sources:
https://www.aade.gr/sites/default/files/2021-05/FAQs_fpa_1.pdf
https://www.aade.gr/sites/default/files/2020-12/02.syntel_forol_EFK.pdf
https://www.aade.gr/sites/default/files/2020-07/06_FK%20ilektroniko_tsigaro_thermenomenotproion.pdf
https://www.aade.gr/sites/default/files/2020-07/07.fk_kafes.pdf
https://www.aade.gr/sites/default/files/2020-07/08.foros_politeleias.pdf
https://www.elta.gr/el-gr/%CE%B9%CE%B4%CE%B9%CF%8E%CF%84%CE%B5%CF%82/%CE%B1%CE%BB%CE%BB%CE%B7%CE%BB%CE%BF%CE%B3%CF%81%CE%B1%CF%86%CE%AF%CE%B1%CE%B4%CE%AD%CE%BC%CE%B1%CF%84%CE%B1/%CE%B5%CE%BA%CF%84%CE%B5%CE%BB%CF%89%CE%BD%CE%B9%CF%83%CE%BC%CF%8C%CF%82.aspx
https://www.tariffinder.ca/en/getStarted

IconGreece Shipping Insurance

You can purchase insurance through Secureship, and it is provided by the carrier that will be transporting your shipment.

Each carrier will charge a different amount per $100 of declared insurance. If you indicate that you need insurance for your shipment, our system will automatically include the insurance costs for your shipment.

Insurance is great to have in case your package is accidentally lost or damaged by the carrier. But be careful, not everything you ship is insurable. Worse - even if your package contains items that are insurable, if it doesn't meet the ISTA 3A packaging standard, the insurance purchased through the carrier would not be available to you.

Here are some items that cannot be insured by the carrier:

  • Personal belongings
  • Antiques
  • Artwork
  • Liquids (including alcohol)
  • Televisions
  • Jewellery in excess of $500
  • Perishable goods
  • Glass or Ceramic
  • And many more items

For more information, please see the carrier's terms and conditions.

Questions about Shipping to Greece

Can I ship to Greece?

Shipping to Greece from Canada can take between 3-5 business days through the fastest carriers available on the Secureship platform. More economical services, such as Canada Post, can take up to 1-2 months to complete the delivery.

Find out how fast the Secureship trusted carriers can get your shipment delivered to Greece by getting a quote now.


Does UPS ship to Greece?

TODO ......................


How long does it take to ship from Canada to Greece?

TODO ......................


How much is it to send a parcel to Greece?

TODO ......................


What is the cheapest way to ship from Canada to Greece?

TODO ......................


How do I send a package to Greece?

TODO ......................


How can I ship my luggage?

TODO ......................


How do I get a FedEx shipping estimate / FedEx quote to Greece?

TODO ......................


How do I ship gifts to Greece?

TODO ........................