Shipping packages to Greece comes with its own set of guidelines and tips that you should be aware of. This guide will help you understand important customs regulations, potential restrictions, and best practices when it comes to packaging and addressing your parcels.
Grasping Customs Regulations
Get to Know Customs Requirements
If you’re planning to send a parcel to Greece, understanding the customs laws is crucial. You’ll need some key documents, such as:
- Commercial Invoice: This document tells what’s inside your package and how much everything is worth.
- Packing List: This lists out what you packed and the sizes of each item.
- Customs Declarations: This is a mandatory form declaring what you’re sending and its value.
Be Aware of Import Charges and Taxes
After Brexit, there are import duties and a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 24% for goods coming from the UK to Greece. Make sure to estimate these charges ahead of time. You don’t want to be caught off guard when your package gets delivered.
Picking a Shipping Company
Choose a Trustworthy Shipping Service
It’s important to pick a good shipping company since it can greatly affect your overall experience. Check reviews and look for companies known for fast deliveries and good customer care. You might want to consider services like GLS, UPS, and FedEx, as they generally excel in international shipping.
Don’t Just Go After the Cheapest Option
While price does matter when choosing a shipping option, going for the lowest cost without doing your evaluation might lead to problems, like delays or even losing your package altogether. Always compare both the price and the quality of service before you decide.
Proper Parcel Packaging
Use the Right Materials for Packing
Make sure you pack your parcel securely using strong materials. For fragile items, use bubble wrap or packing peanuts for extra protection and fasten your boxes really well with sturdy tape to avoid damage during transport.
Avoid Packing Issues
Don’t overdo it when packing your parcel. Making it too heavy can add unexpected shipping fees, while making it too light might risk damage to your contents. It’s all about finding that middle ground: enough packing to protect your items without going overboard on weight.
Items You Can’t Send
Research Restricted Items
Before sending your parcel, it’s smart to know which items are completely prohibited from being imported to Greece. For instance, common no-no items include:
- Food items that spoil easily
- Animals or any biological materials
- Certain types of electronics
- Hazardous substances like explosives
Always check with your shipper or Greek customs for the latest rules before shipping anything.
Don’t Take Assumptions Lightly
Make sure you’re aware of regulations on what can enter Greece—ignoring them can lead to votre parcel’s confiscation or big delays in arrival.
Getting the Address Right
Make Sure Addresses Are Clear and Accurate
When writing the address for your parcel, take no shortcuts. Include the full recipient’s name, street address, city, postal code, and country clearly. In Greece, the order usually looks like this:
- Recipient’s Name
- Street Address
- City
- Postal Code
- Greece
Writing in both Greek and English is wise to make delivery smoother.
Don’t Forget Important Contacts
Always include a phone number on the parcel for the recipient. This information can greatly help delivery personnel in case they need assistance during the delivery process.
Keeping Track of Your Shipment
Make Use of Tracking Options
Many trustworthy shipping companies give you the ability to track your parcel. This option allows both you and the recipient to keep an eye on where the shipment is and when to expect its arrival.
Don’t Rely Completely on Estimates
Even when tracking information is available, remember there can be unexpected things like bad weather or customs holds that slow down delivery. Always factor in some extra time when planning your shipments.
Handling Returns
Plan Ahead for Possible Returns
If you’re sending items that could come back to you, consider opting for shipping services that make returns easier. Many logistics companies provide local return addresses or special services tailored for returns to allow customers in Greece more convenience.
Don’t Overlook Return Guidelines
If you run a business, make sure your return policies are clear for your customers. This openness builds trust and can lead to them returning for more purchases in the future.
Conclusion
Shipping packages to Greece involves tackling several regulations and guidelines. By adhering to these helpful do’s and don’ts, you can have a better shipping experience that reduces the likelihood of facing issues tied to customs, packaging, and shipping times. Stay current on the latest regulations and feel free to ask your shipping provider about any specifics for your package.
