When it comes to shipping goods from China to Greece, many importers prefer a method that minimizes risk, paperwork, and unexpected fees. That’s where DDP shipping (Delivered Duty Paid) comes in — a comprehensive, door to door delivery service where the shipper handles the entire shipping process, including customs clearance, freight costs, and import duties.
Whether you’re shipping bulk goods, high value electronics, or retail merchandise, DDP offers peace of mind and predictable shipping costs. In this 2025 guide, we’ll explore the full scope of DDP shipping from China to Greece, including air and sea freight options, transit time, container load requirements, and what’s included in the total price.
What is DDP Shipping and Why It’s Ideal for Greece Imports?
Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) is an international shipping term under which the seller (or their freight forwarder) assumes responsibility for the entire shipping journey. From pick-up at the supplier’s warehouse in China to final delivery in Greece, the service includes:
Export procedures in China
Sea freight or air freight transportation
Import customs clearance in Greece
Payment of customs duties and value added tax (VAT)
Domestic transport to your address — office, home, or warehouse
This method is especially beneficial for businesses unfamiliar with Greek customs clearance procedures, those without a local customs broker, or e-commerce companies shipping to Eastern European countries through Greece as a hub.
Sea Freight DDP from China to Greece: A Cost-Effective Option
For businesses transporting large quantities of goods, sea freight DDP is the most cost-effective option. It allows importers to consolidate products into LCL shipping or book a full container load (FCL), depending on cargo volume.
Goods are typically loaded at major ports like Shanghai, Ningbo, or Qingdao, and shipped to Greece’s primary port — Piraeus. The average sea freight cost for a 20GP container ranges between $2,100–$2,400, with transit time around 30–38 days, depending on the transshipment port.
Sea DDP includes:
Ocean freight
Chinese export documents
Greek import duties
Final delivery to your address
All handling and insurance costs included (if needed)
This method is ideal for bulk goods, furniture, machinery, and other items where low transportation costs matter more than speed.
Air Freight DDP from China to Greece: Fast and Reliable
When speed is a priority, air freight DDP is the best solution for shipping goods from China to Greece. This method is ideal for time-sensitive shipments, electronic products, and lightweight high-value cargo that needs to arrive quickly.
Common departure airports include Guangzhou Baiyun, Shanghai Pudong, and Hangzhou Xiaoshan, with goods delivered to Athens International Airport or Heraklion International Airport, depending on your location in Greece.
Key benefits of air freight DDP:
Transit time of just 5 to 9 days
All customs clearance procedures handled by your forwarder
No need to arrange a destination airport customs broker
Door to door delivery to your office or warehouse
While air freight costs are higher than sea shipping, the time savings and reduced risk of delay make it worthwhile for urgent orders or product launches.
Shipping Time for DDP Shipments: Air vs Sea
The total shipping time under DDP terms includes not just the transportation, but also handling, customs clearance, and final delivery within Greece. Here’s what you can expect in 2025:
Shipping Mode | Origin | Destination | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
Air Freight (DDP) | Shanghai | Athens | 5–9 days |
Sea Freight (FCL DDP) | Ningbo | Piraeus | 30–35 days |
Sea Freight (LCL DDP) | Shenzhen | Thessaloniki | 35–42 days |
Factors such as transshipment ports, Greek national holidays, and customs processing delays may impact actual destination transit time. Still, under DDP terms, your freight forwarder will ensure efficient coordination for a smooth international shipment.
How Much Does DDP Shipping to Greece Cost?
DDP shipping prices vary based on factors such as weight, cargo volume, freight method, and final delivery location. Costs typically include:
Freight charges (air or sea)
Export customs clearance in China
Import customs clearance in Greece
Tariff rates, value added tax, and insurance costs
Domestic door to door delivery
Example DDP Rates from China to Greece (2025):
| Route | Air Freight (USD/kg) | Sea Freight (1 CBM) | FCL 20GP (Sea) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guangzhou → Athens | $5.20/kg (100kg) | $220 | $2,100 |
| Shanghai → Thessaloniki | $5.50/kg (100kg) | $250 | $2,250 |
| Ningbo → Piraeus | $5.00/kg (100kg) | $210 | $2,050 |
Note: These rates include import duties, VAT, and all related delivery costs, making DDP one of the most transparent and predictable ways to import from China to Greece.
To explore detailed shipping costs and delivery times from China to other countries, you can click below:
What’s Included in DDP Shipping from China to Greece?
Under the DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) term, the seller or freight forwarder takes full responsibility for the entire shipping process, allowing the buyer to receive the goods worry-free. Here’s what’s typically included:
Pickup from the supplier in China
Export documentation (invoice, packing list, etc.)
Air freight or sea freight
Insurance costs (if required)
Import customs clearance in Greece
Payment of customs duties and VAT
Local delivery to the final destination
This comprehensive service ensures you don’t need to coordinate with customs brokers or worry about unexpected additional fees during import. The agreed-upon total price covers everything from origin to your warehouse or business location.
Required Documents for Smooth DDP Customs Clearance
Even under DDP terms, proper paperwork is critical for a smooth customs clearance process in Greece. Your freight forwarder will typically prepare and submit the following documents:
Commercial Invoice – Detailing goods’ description, quantity, value, and HS codes
Packing List – Including number of cartons, weight, and packaging method
Sea Waybill or Air Waybill – Transportation document used for customs and cargo tracking
Certificate of Origin – May be required for tariff benefits under trade agreements
Import Licenses – For restricted or regulated goods (if applicable)
Correct classification of products and documentation reduces the risk of delays, fines, or overpayment of customs duties.
FCL vs. LCL Shipping: Which One Is Right for Your Cargo?
When booking sea freight DDP, you’ll need to choose between FCL (Full Container Load) and LCL (Less than Container Load) based on your shipment’s cargo volume.
Full Container Load (FCL):
Ideal for large shipments or bulk goods
Lower unit shipping costs per cubic meter
Reduced risk of cargo damage or delay
LCL Shipping:
Your cargo shares space with other shipments
More economical for small to mid-size volumes
Flexible and accessible for new or small businesses
Slightly longer shipping time due to consolidation steps
Choosing the right container load strategy can save time and money, especially when paired with a DDP arrangement where freight forwarders handle all logistical and import customs clearance steps.
Best Cargo Types for DDP Shipping to Greece
Not every shipment type is ideal for DDP. This method works best for shipping goods that are:
Non-restricted and don’t require complex import permits
Lightweight yet valuable (e.g. electronics, apparel, cosmetics) via air freight
Bulk goods like furniture, kitchenware, auto parts via sea freight
Items where the importer prefers door to door delivery without managing customs
DDP is especially useful for international shipments involving clients without a local office in Greece or businesses importing into Southeast Europe using Greece as a gateway hub. It’s also popular among e-commerce brands who want cost effective and predictable pricing without unexpected taxes or local clearance issues.
How to Choose the Right Freight Forwarder for DDP Shipping
Your DDP experience is only as good as the freight forwarder you work with. A reliable partner will ensure smooth coordination from pickup to final delivery, avoiding costly mistakes in customs clearance, misdeclared cargo, or delays at Greek ports or airports.
When selecting a provider, consider:
Experience in DDP shipping from China to Europe
Transparent shipping costs with breakdowns of freight, VAT, and duties
Clear communication and real-time cargo tracking
Ability to handle both air and sea freight
Positive reviews from other importers shipping to Greece or nearby markets
Choosing the right expert ensures you’re not just getting transport, but a full logistics solution that safeguards your time and investment.
Conclusion: Is DDP Shipping from China to Greece Right for You?
If you’re looking for a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective way to import from China to Greece, DDP shipping is the answer. With all fees, taxes, and customs duties included, and no need to coordinate with local authorities, it’s the most straightforward method — especially for small businesses, eCommerce sellers, and first-time importers.
Whether you choose air freight for faster turnaround or sea freight for volume shipments, working with a professional freight forwarder ensures your goods arrive on time, on budget, and with no hidden surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use DDP for all types of cargo?
DDP works best for general cargo. For dangerous goods or sensitive items, check with your freight forwarder in advance.
Is VAT included in DDP shipping costs to Greece?
Yes. Under DDP terms, value added tax (24%) and import duties are prepaid by the shipper and included in your quote.
How can I reduce DDP shipping costs?
Use LCL shipping for small cargo, consolidate shipments, and provide accurate packing info to optimize container load and avoid overpaying on volumetric charges.
