Greece Customs Regulations for Shipping from the UK
Greece’s customs are managed by the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) within the EU framework. Post-Brexit, the UK is a third country, and shipments are subject to EU external tariffs unless qualifying for zero-duty under the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA, effective 2021). Compliance with EU standards is essential for Send2Hub shipments.
1. Customs Clearance Process
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Declaration: Handled via the EU’s Import Control System (ICS2); an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) is required pre-arrival.
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Inspection: AADE may inspect for tax compliance, safety, and EU regulations.
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Duty/Tax Payment: Assessed on CIF value (cost, insurance, freight).
2. Required Documentation
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Commercial Invoice: Details goods, value, and parties (in English or Greek; translation may be requested).
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Packing List: Lists contents, weight, and quantity per package.
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Bill of Lading (Sea) or Air Waybill (Air): Proves transport and ownership; includes freight costs.
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EORI Number: Required for UK exporters to clear EU customs (Send2Hub can assist).
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Certificate of Origin: Needed for TCA zero-duty eligibility (UK-made goods only).
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Permits/Certs: For restricted items (e.g., food, plants).
3. Duties and Taxes
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Duty-Free Threshold: Personal gifts under €45 and commercial goods under €22 (CIF) are exempt from duties and VAT. Above these, full rates apply.
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Import Duties: 0-17% based on HS codes (e.g., 8% on toys); TCA reduces to 0% for UK-origin goods with proof.
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VAT (FPA): 24% standard rate (CIF + duty); 13% for food, 6% for books/medicines.
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Customs Fees: €5-20 depending on courier and shipment type.
4. Prohibited and Restricted Items
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Prohibited: Narcotics, counterfeit goods, weapons without permits, and hazardous materials like asbestos.
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Restricted:
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Food/alcohol: EU health certificates (e.g., no fresh UK meat; wine needs excise docs).
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Plants/animals: Phytosanitary/vet certificates (EU Reg 2016/2031).
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Medicines: EOF approval for drugs/cosmetics.
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Cultural goods: Export clearance from UK, import checks in Greece.
5. HS Codes and Valuation
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HS Codes: EU Common Customs Tariff applies (e.g., a wool coat might be 6201.13). Use TARIC database.
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Valuation: CIF value; under-declaring risks fines or seizure.
6. Post-Brexit TCA Benefits
7. Practical Tips
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Prepay Taxes: Couriers like ELTA or DHL offer this to speed clearance.
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EORI Setup: Mandatory for UK exporters to the EU—Send2Hub can guide you.
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Tracking: Use AADE’s portal (myAADE) or courier systems for updates.
Mastering Greece Customs with Send2Hub
Shipping to Greece post-Brexit? Send2Hub simplifies AADE rules. Goods under €22 skip duties and VAT, but above that, expect 0-17% duties (or 0% with TCA) plus 24% VAT. You’ll need a commercial invoice, packing list, and EORI number—we’ll ensure they’re perfect. Restricted items like food or plants need EU permits, and prohibited goods (e.g., drugs, counterfeits) are banned—our team keeps you on track.
We’ll help you claim TCA tariff savings, sort HS codes, and prepay taxes for quick clearance. Track live and ship with assurance. From the UK to Greece, Send2Hub makes customs easy—get started now!