Reliable & Cost-Effective Shipping from China

Tailored Logistics Solutions for Your Business

  1. Home
  2. »
  3. Company News
  4. »
  5. How Long Does It Take to Ship from China to Greece

How Long Does It Take to Ship from China to Greece

In 2025, trade relations between China and Greece continue to expand, supported by strong maritime cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative. With China being one of Greece’s top import partners, thousands of containers, electronics, textiles, and machinery shipments move between the two countries every month.

For importers and businesses, one of the most frequently asked questions is: How long does it take to ship from China to Greece?
The answer depends on several factors—shipping mode, origin port, destination port, and customs clearance process. On average, sea freight takes around 25–40 days, air freight only 3–7 days, and rail freight about 15–20 days.

Choosing the right freight forwarder and understanding shipping routes and transit times can help reduce overall shipping costs and ensure timely delivery to ports such as Piraeus, Thessaloniki, or Athens International Airport. This complete guide explains all shipping methods, customs duties, and factors affecting delivery times to help you plan cost-effective international shipments from China to Greece.

How Long Does It Take to Ship from China to Greece (2025 Guide) | Sea, Air & Rail Freight Times

Typical Shipping Time from China to Greece

Below is a quick overview of average transit times and major ports for each shipping mode. This summary helps importers select the most suitable method for their cargo type, budget, and delivery schedule.

Shipping ModeAverage Transit TimeKey Ports / AirportsRecommended For
Sea Freight (FCL/LCL)25–40 daysShanghai Port, Shenzhen Port, Ningbo → Piraeus, ThessalonikiBulk or containerized goods
Air Freight3–7 daysBeijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai → Athens International AirportUrgent or high-value cargo
Rail Freight15–20 daysXi’an, Chengdu → Thessaloniki (via Europe)Medium-volume shipments
DDP Door Shipping30–35 days (Sea) / 7–10 days (Air)Handled by freight forwarderDoor-to-door delivery

These average transit times may vary depending on seasonal demand, shipping routes, customs clearance, and logistics processes.
Working with a reliable freight forwarder helps importers manage documentation such as commercial invoices, detailed packing lists, and customs procedures efficiently—reducing delays and unexpected customs fees at Greek customs.

Sea Freight from China to Greece

Sea freight remains the most popular and cost-effective shipping method for transporting large volumes of goods from China to Greece. With multiple major ports across southern China and well-established shipping routes through the Mediterranean Sea, importers can move containers efficiently while keeping shipping costs low.

Transit Time for Sea Freight

The average transit time for sea freight from China to Greece ranges between 25 and 40 days, depending on the origin port, destination port, and shipping schedules.

  • From Shanghai PortPiraeus Port: around 28–35 days
  • From Shenzhen PortThessaloniki Port: about 30–38 days
  • From Ningbo PortPiraeus Port: around 25–32 days

These routes pass through the Suez Canal, one of the world’s busiest container passages, connecting Asia with southern Europe. Shipping time may vary depending on weather conditions, container load type (FCL or LCL), and port congestion.

Container Shipping Options

Sea freight shipments are generally divided into two main categories:

  • FCL (Full Container Load): Best for large shipments requiring a full 20ft or 40ft container. Offers stable ocean freight rates and faster loading/unloading times.
  • LCL (Less than Container Load): Ideal for smaller cargo that shares space with other shipments. While more affordable for light cargo volume, it involves longer shipping schedules due to consolidation and deconsolidation.

Tonlexing Logistics and other freight forwarders offer flexible container shipping services from southern China to Greece, providing detailed tracking, customs clearance, and door delivery for all international shipments.

Main Shipping Routes and Ports

The key origin ports in China include Shanghai, Shenzhen, Ningbo, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong Port.
The destination ports in Greece are primarily Piraeus Port (the largest in Greece) and Thessaloniki Port.
Piraeus, operated by COSCO, is one of the world’s busiest container ports, equipped with extensive cargo handling facilities that ensure efficient logistics processes and reduce overall transit times.

Sea Freight Costs and Considerations

The ocean freight rates between China and Greece are influenced by:

  • Type of container load (FCL or LCL)
  • Cargo volume and weight
  • Shipping company selected
  • Seasonal rate fluctuations and fuel surcharges

In general, sea freight is 70–80% cheaper than air freight, making it the most cost-effective shipping solution for commercial cargo, machinery, or bulk goods. Importers should always work with a good customs broker to minimize customs duties and simplify the customs clearance process upon arrival at Greek customs.

Air Freight from China to Greece

For businesses that value speed and reliability, air freight from China to Greece is the fastest and most efficient shipping mode. This method is ideal for high-value, time-sensitive, or small-volume shipments, offering quick transit times and consistent shipping schedules throughout the year.

Average Transit Time for Air Freight

The average transit time for air freight shipments from China to Greece ranges between 3 and 7 days, depending on the origin airport, cargo type, and chosen freight forwarder.

  • From Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)Athens International Airport (ATH): around 3–5 days
  • From Guangzhou Baiyun Airport (CAN)Athens: about 4–6 days
  • From Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG)Athens: approximately 5–7 days

Express couriers and premium air freight offers can shorten this to just 2–3 days, though at a higher shipping cost.

Advantages of Air Freight

  1. Fast Delivery: The shortest transit time among all shipping modes, ensuring timely arrival.
  2. High Security: Cargo is handled at secure air transport facilities with advanced scanning and tracking systems.
  3. Stable Schedules: Less affected by weather and congestion compared to sea freight.
  4. Door Shipping Options: Many freight forwarders provide door-to-door shipping services, handling pickup, documentation, customs clearance, and final delivery to the consignee in Greece.

Air freight also improves shipping efficiency and reduces warehousing time, which is particularly valuable for e-commerce sellers, electronics distributors, and fashion brands that rely on international shipping with tight delivery deadlines.

Major Airports and Air Routes

Key origin airports in China include:

  • Shanghai Pudong (PVG)
  • Beijing Capital (PEK)
  • Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN)
  • Shenzhen Bao’an (SZX)
  • Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

The main destination is Athens International Airport, while some specialized flights also land at Heraklion International Airport for regional distribution. These air routes connect China to southern Europe within hours, supporting both commercial cargo and urgent shipments.

Air Freight Costs

Air freight costs depend on the chargeable weight, which is calculated based on either the actual weight or volumetric weight—whichever is greater. Prices usually range from $5–$10 per kilogram, though this can vary depending on:

  • Cargo density and dimensions
  • Airline choice and fuel surcharges
  • Type of service level (economy vs. express)
  • Handling and customs fees in Greece

Despite higher rates, air freight remains a cost-effective shipping solution when inventory turnover speed and product value outweigh transportation cost differences.

Rail Freight from China to Greece

In recent years, rail freight from China to Greece has become an increasingly popular shipping mode for importers who want a balance between speed and cost. As part of the China–Europe Railway Express, this option connects inland Chinese cities with southern Europe, passing through multiple European countries before reaching Greece.

Transit Time and Efficiency

The typical transit time for rail freight between China and Greece is 15 to 20 days, making it faster than sea freight but more affordable than air freight.
This route commonly starts from major Chinese logistics hubs such as Xi’an, Chengdu, or Chongqing, and travels through Kazakhstan, Russia, and Eastern Europe before arriving in Thessaloniki or Piraeus.

For businesses dealing with medium-volume cargo transportation, rail freight offers a cost-effective shipping solution with shorter delivery times and stable shipping schedules. It is ideal for electronics, textiles, and consumer goods that require faster turnover without the high expenses of air transport.

Advantages of Rail Freight

  1. Balanced Cost and Speed: Faster than ocean routes, cheaper than air routes.
  2. Reliable Schedules: Less weather-dependent compared to sea freight or ocean shipping.
  3. Sustainable Transport: Lower carbon emissions compared to air or truck freight, supporting eco-friendly logistics processes.
  4. Cross-Border Integration: Efficient customs coordination along the shipping route, simplifying international freight operations across multiple European countries.

Rail freight also enhances the regional supply chain, linking southern China manufacturing centers with European retail markets through interconnected container ports and intermodal terminals.

Container Load Options

Similar to sea freight, rail shipments can be booked as:

  • FCL (Full Container Load): Dedicated use of a 20ft or 40ft container load—faster delivery and safer handling.
  • LCL (Less than Container Load): Shared space in one container—more economical for smaller commercial cargo.

Leading freight forwarders in China provide comprehensive container shipping services, including customs clearance, insurance, and final door shipping to Greece, ensuring smooth international shipments through coordinated logistics processes.

DDP Shipping from China to Greece

For importers who want a stress-free and fully managed logistics solution, DDP shipping (Delivered Duty Paid) from China to Greece is the most convenient and reliable option. Under this shipping method, your freight forwarder handles every stage of the transportation process—from pickup at the origin port to final door shipping in Greece—while paying all customs duties, import taxes, and fees on your behalf.

What Is DDP Shipping?

In a DDP shipping arrangement, the seller (exporter in China) assumes full responsibility for:

  • Export customs and documentation in China
  • Main freight transportation (by sea, air, or rail)
  • Customs clearance and payment of customs duties in Greece
  • Final delivery to the consignee’s address

This model ensures a truly door-to-door shipping experience with predictable timelines and clear shipping costs.

Typical DDP Transit Times

  • DDP by Air Freight: Around 7–10 days from major airports such as Shanghai, Guangzhou, or Shenzhen to Athens International Airport.
  • DDP by Sea Freight: Approximately 30–35 days from ports like Shanghai Port, Ningbo, or Shenzhen Port to Piraeus Port.

These transit times include all steps—export clearance, international transportation, import procedures, and final delivery—making DDP one of the most efficient solutions for importers who prefer simplicity and reliability.

DDP Shipping Costs

Although DDP shipping costs are slightly higher than standard port-to-port rates, they include everything:
Freight charges
Customs duties and import duties
VAT and service handling fees
Local delivery within Greece

As a result, importers can manage their budgets more accurately without worrying about surprise expenses at Greek customs. It’s a transparent and cost effective shipping option, particularly for small businesses and e-commerce shipments.

Why Choose a Professional Freight Forwarder

Successful DDP shipping depends on a reliable freight forwarder with strong logistics provider networks in both China and Greece.
Tonlexing Logistics, for instance, partners with top shipping companies and customs brokers to ensure each step—from consolidation and labeling to customs clearance and last-mile delivery—is handled with precision.

Using DDP allows you to focus on sales and operations while your logistics partner ensures your cargo arrives safely and on schedule.

Advantages of DDP Shipping

  1. Full Cost Control: All charges are included—no hidden fees.
  2. Simplified Process: No need for import licenses or dealing with customs clearance personally.
  3. Fast and Predictable Delivery: Consistent delivery times supported by professional freight services.
  4. Ideal for E-commerce: Perfect for Amazon FBA, retail, and distribution shipments.

By combining reliability and transparency, DDP shipping from China to Greece remains one of the most efficient logistics solutions for importers who prioritize convenience, compliance, and control over their overall shipping costs.

Key Chinese and Greek Ports

When planning international shipping from China to Greece, understanding the major ports on both sides is essential for optimizing shipping routes, managing transit times, and estimating overall shipping costs. The efficiency of loading and shipping containers at each origin port and destination port plays a crucial role in the entire logistics chain.

Major Ports in China

China operates some of the world’s busiest container ports, with advanced terminals and extensive cargo handling facilities that support massive trade volumes. The following are the main origin ports for shipments to Greece:

  1. Shanghai Port – Recognized globally as the world’s busiest container port, Shanghai handles millions of container loads annually and connects directly to Piraeus Port and other European countries through major shipping routes via the Suez Canal.
  2. Shenzhen Port – Located in southern China, it offers efficient container shipping services with frequent sailings to Greece ports and nearby destinations.
  3. Ningbo-Zhoushan Port – Known for high export capacity, especially for machinery, furniture, and commercial cargo.
  4. Guangzhou Port – A hub for both FCL and LCL shipments, providing flexible shipping schedules for bulk cargo.
  5. Hong Kong Port – A vital gateway for international shipments, especially for electronics, high-value goods, and transshipment operations.

These ports are equipped to handle a wide range of shipping containers, including oversized cargo, refrigerated units, and hazardous goods, ensuring efficient cargo transportation from southern China to southeast Europe.

Main Ports in Greece

On the Greek side, there are two key container ports serving as the main destinations for imports from China:

  1. Piraeus Port – The largest and most significant Greece port, operated by China’s COSCO Group. It serves as the main European entry point for goods shipped from Asia, making it a central hub in southeast Europe’s supply chain.
    • Facilities: Multiple terminals for container ships, Ro-Ro vessels, and bulk carriers.
    • Advantages: Efficient customs clearance, modern cranes, and automated logistics processes reduce transit time significantly.
  2. Thessaloniki Port – Located in northern Greece, this port is ideal for shipping goods bound for the Balkans and other European countries. It provides reliable container shipping rates and competitive handling times.

Both ports offer excellent connectivity to inland regions through rail and truck transport, enhancing shipping efficiency and reducing the total delivery time for importing goods.

Port Cooperation and Trade Volume

The growing cooperation between Chinese and Greek ports under the Belt and Road Initiative has led to improved shipping schedules, higher cargo volume, and streamlined customs procedures.
Piraeus Port, in particular, has transformed into a strategic gateway for Asia–Europe trade, handling a large share of China’s international freight to the EU market.

Factors Affecting Shipping Time from China to Greece

While the average transit time from China to Greece is relatively predictable—about 25–40 days by sea, 15–20 days by rail, and 3–7 days by air—the actual duration of your shipment can vary depending on multiple external and operational factors. Understanding these influences helps importers plan more accurately and improve overall shipping efficiency.

Customs Clearance and Documentation

One of the most significant factors affecting delivery is the customs clearance process. Both Chinese export and Greek customs require accurate documentation, including:

  • Commercial invoice
  • Detailed packing list
  • Bill of lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)
  • Certificates of origin or product compliance, when applicable

Delays in providing these documents can cause containers to remain at port for several days. Working with a good customs broker ensures smooth customs procedures, minimizing delays and reducing potential customs fees or penalties.

Customs Duties and Import Regulations

All goods imported into Greece are subject to customs duties, import duties, and VAT according to the European Union’s trade framework. The rate depends on product category, HS code, and declared value.
A professional freight forwarder can help calculate these fees accurately before shipment, ensuring full compliance with EU and trade agreements. Pre-clearance of documents can also shorten handling times upon arrival at Piraeus Port or Athens International Airport.

Shipping Mode and Route Choice

Each shipping mode—sea freight, air freight, or rail freight—has different levels of reliability and time efficiency.

  • Sea freight may face weather delays or port congestion.
  • Air freight offers faster transit times, but limited cargo capacity.
  • Rail freight ensures balance but can experience cross-border inspection delays.

Choosing the right mode based on cargo transportation needs and shipping routes is crucial for optimizing delivery time and cost-effective shipping.

Seasonal Demand and Weather Conditions

Peak seasons, such as before Chinese New Year and during European holidays, often lead to extended shipping schedules due to high demand.
Additionally, extreme weather—typhoons in southern China or storms in the Mediterranean—can slow down container ships or temporarily close ports.

Logistics Processes and Supply Chain Efficiency

Efficient logistics processes ensure timely pickup, consolidation, loading and shipping containers, and on-time delivery. Delays at any stage—such as warehouse handling or inland trucking—can affect the total shipping journey.
Collaborating with an experienced freight forwarder who manages door pickup, customs clearance, and last-mile delivery is essential to maintain consistent international transportation performance.

Cooperation Between Ports and Carriers

Strong cooperation between Chinese and Greek ports, particularly under the Belt and Road Initiative, continues to improve shipping efficiency. The coordination between shipping companies, container ports, and customs brokers helps reduce idle time and maintain accurate average transit times for both FCL and LCL cargo.

Explore more shipping guides:

How Long Does It Take to Ship from China to Greece? - China Freight Forwarder, Logistics Company

How to Shorten Shipping Time from China to Greece (Expert Tips)

Reducing shipping time is one of the most effective ways to improve your supply chain and maintain a competitive edge in today’s fast-moving trade environment. Whether you’re shipping electronics, furniture, or machinery, the following strategies can help you increase shipping efficiency, minimize delays, and lower overall shipping costs.

Choose the Right Shipping Method

Selecting the right shipping method—air freight, sea freight, rail freight, or DDP door shipping—can dramatically affect your transit time and cost.

  • Air freight: Fastest (3–7 days), suitable for small and urgent cargo.
  • Sea freight: Most affordable (25–40 days), ideal for bulk goods and container loads.
  • Rail freight: Balanced option (15–20 days) with consistent schedules.
  • DDP shipping: Offers full control and simplified logistics by covering customs clearance, duties, and final delivery.

Choosing the right mix of speed and cost ensures the most cost effective shipping solution for your business.

Work with a Reliable Freight Forwarder

A reliable freight forwarder is the backbone of any successful international shipment. Professional freight forwarders like Tonlexing Logistics handle end-to-end operations—loading and shipping containers, booking space with the best shipping companies, and coordinating customs clearance at both ends.
They also monitor shipping schedules, track your cargo, and update you on transit times, ensuring minimal delays and smooth delivery to Greece ports or your warehouse.

Prepare All Documentation in Advance

Incomplete or incorrect paperwork can cause long delays at customs clearance.
Before your cargo leaves China, make sure to prepare the following:

  • Commercial invoice
  • Packing list
  • Bill of lading or Air Waybill
  • Product certificates or licenses (if applicable)

Having a trusted customs broker or logistics provider review your paperwork helps prevent additional customs fees and accelerates the import process through Greek customs.

Opt for Door Shipping or DDP Services

If you want a fully managed solution, choose door shipping or DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping from China to Greece.
Under DDP, the freight forwarder takes care of every stage: pickup, shipping, customs clearance, payment of import duties, and final delivery.
This method eliminates the need for the consignee to handle complex import procedures, guaranteeing a faster and hassle-free delivery—especially useful for e-commerce and small business importers.

Optimize Cargo Packaging and Load Planning

Efficient packaging can significantly improve shipping efficiency by reducing volume and avoiding wasted space in containers.
Properly labeled, palletized, and consolidated shipments also minimize inspection delays and damage during transit.
Using a professional logistics provider with experience in cargo transportation helps ensure compliance with both Chinese and Greek port requirements.

Avoid Peak Season Congestion

Whenever possible, avoid scheduling shipments during peak seasons such as:

  • The weeks before Chinese New Year
  • The Golden Week holiday in China
  • Major European holiday periods (December and August)

Booking early with your shipping company or freight forwarder ensures better space availability, stable container shipping rates, and shorter waiting times at origin ports like Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong Port.

Use Digital Tracking and Communication Tools

Modern shipping companies and freight forwarders now provide online cargo tracking systems that give real-time updates on shipping routes, transit times, and delivery status.
Clear communication with your logistics provider helps prevent misunderstandings and supports proactive decisions if delays occur.

Shipping Costs and Average Transit Time Comparison

When planning international shipping from China to Greece, both shipping time and shipping costs play a vital role in decision-making. The total price depends on your chosen shipping mode, cargo weight, and service level. Below is a detailed comparison of average transit times and average prices across different transportation options.

Shipping ModeAverage Transit TimeAverage Price (USD)Recommended For
Sea Freight (FCL/LCL)25–40 days$800 – $1,600 per 20ft container
$1,700 – $3,200 per 40ft container
Heavy goods, bulk shipments, containerized cargo
Air Freight3–7 days$5 – $10 per kgHigh-value or urgent shipments
Rail Freight15–20 days$3,000 – $4,500 per containerMedium-sized shipments with faster delivery
DDP Air Shipping7–10 days$6 – $12 per kg (all inclusive)Door-to-door e-commerce or FBA cargo
DDP Sea Shipping30–35 days$1,800 – $3,000 per CBM (all inclusive)Door delivery with taxes and duties prepaid

These figures are approximate average prices. Actual rates may vary depending on the origin port, shipping company, cargo volume, and seasonal demand.

What Determines Shipping Costs

Several elements influence container shipping rates and overall shipping costs from China to Greece:

  • Shipping Mode – Air freight is faster but more expensive than sea or rail.
  • Container Type – Full Container Load (FCL) vs. Less than Container Load (LCL).
  • Cargo Volume and Weight – Heavier or oversized cargo increases cost per shipment.
  • Origin and Destination Ports – Shanghai, Shenzhen, or Hong Kong Port to Piraeus Port have different freight rates.
  • Customs Duties and Local Charges – Includes import duties, VAT, and customs clearance fees in Greece.

A professional freight forwarder can compare freight services and help you select the most cost effective shipping route with optimized transit times and minimal handling delays.

How to Estimate Shipping Efficiency

  • For large container shipments, sea freight offers the best value and stable shipping efficiency.
  • For urgent deliveries, air freight is unbeatable in speed despite higher average prices.
  • For balanced timing and cost, rail freight remains the most competitive solution among European countries.
  • For simplified operations, DDP shipping covers everything from customs clearance to door delivery.

By analyzing your cargo transportation priorities—speed, cost, or reliability—you can select the best shipping mode to manage both time and budget effectively.

Customs Clearance and Import Duties in Greece

Understanding customs clearance and import duties is essential for anyone importing goods from China to Greece. Greece, as part of the European Union, follows the unified EU Customs Code, meaning all goods arriving from outside the EU are subject to customs duties, VAT, and specific customs procedures depending on the product category.

The Customs Clearance Process

All shipments entering Greece must go through the customs clearance process handled by Greek customs authorities. The importer (or appointed customs broker) must present accurate documentation to avoid penalties or delays.
Required documents typically include:

  • Commercial invoice (listing product value and HS codes)
  • Detailed packing list (with weight, dimensions, and quantity)
  • Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB)
  • Certificate of Origin (if preferential tariffs apply)
  • Import license or compliance certificates (for regulated products)

Once the documents are reviewed, Greek customs determines the applicable customs duties and import taxes. For express or DDP shipping, your freight forwarder or customs broker usually manages this on your behalf.

Customs Duties and VAT in Greece

The standard customs duty rates vary depending on the goods imported. Items such as electronics, machinery, textiles, and toys fall under different tariff classifications according to the EU TARIC system.

  • Customs Duties: Typically 0–12%, depending on the HS code.
  • VAT: Standard rate of 24%, applied to the CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight).

Certain trade agreements between the EU and other Asian countries can reduce tariffs if valid certificates of origin are provided.
For instance, products meeting EU-China preferential trade rules may qualify for lower customs duties or faster customs procedures.

The Role of a Customs Broker

A professional customs broker plays a crucial role in ensuring your commercial cargo clears Greek customs smoothly. They handle:

  • Tariff classification and HS code verification
  • Calculating customs fees and import duties
  • Submitting electronic declarations via the EU customs platform
  • Coordinating inspections or document reviews

Working with a good customs broker not only saves time but also helps avoid costly errors or penalties during the customs clearance process.

Simplifying the Process Through DDP or Freight Forwarder Services

Many importers prefer to use DDP shipping or a full-service freight forwarder to simplify customs formalities.
Under Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) terms, your logistics provider takes full responsibility for paying customs duties and VAT, allowing your shipment to move directly from the origin port in China to your warehouse or address in Greece without any administrative burden.

Best Practices for Importers

To ensure fast and compliant customs clearance:

  1. Double-check all document details before shipment.
  2. Declare accurate product values and HS codes.
  3. Maintain a consistent record of your importing goods.
  4. Collaborate with experienced freight forwarders familiar with EU customs law.

Proper preparation ensures that your goods arrive in Greece without delay, helping you maintain predictable shipping schedules and efficient logistics processes.

FAQs: Common Questions About Shipping from China to Greece

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

The shipping time from China to Greece depends on your chosen shipping method:

  • Sea freight: 25–40 days
  • Rail freight: 15–20 days
  • Air freight: 3–7 days
  • DDP air shipping: 7–10 days
  • DDP sea shipping: 30–35 days

Your actual delivery time may vary depending on customs procedures, shipping routes, and seasonal demand.

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

The most affordable shipping mode is sea freight, especially for full container shipping (FCL) or less than container load (LCL) shipments.
Although air freight offers faster delivery, it costs more per kilogram. For smaller cargo or e-commerce shipments, DDP sea freight is often the most cost effective shipping solution since it includes customs clearance and import duties.

Which ports in China and Greece are most commonly used?

The main origin ports in China are Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Ningbo, and Hong Kong Port.
The major destination ports in Greece are Piraeus Port and Thessaloniki Port, both equipped with extensive cargo handling facilities and efficient customs clearance systems.

How much does air freight from China to Greece cost?

Air freight costs range from $5 to $10 per kilogram, depending on cargo volume, airline selection, and transit time.
Express services with premium freight forwarders can offer faster shipping schedules, though prices may increase during peak seasons.

Can I ship goods door-to-door from China to Greece?

Yes, many freight forwarders provide door shipping or DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) services.
With this option, all steps—including pickup, customs clearance, customs duties, and final delivery—are managed by the shipping company, allowing your goods to reach your address in Greece without additional paperwork or hidden costs.

Do I need a customs broker in Greece?

If you’re importing goods under standard CIF or FOB terms, it’s highly recommended to use a customs broker.
They handle customs procedures, prepare documentation, and pay customs fees and import duties to Greek customs.
However, if you use DDP shipping, your freight forwarder takes care of this automatically.

What factors affect shipping time from China to Greece?

Several variables can influence transit times:

  • Port congestion or weather conditions
  • Customs inspections and documentation issues
  • Shipping mode and route selection
  • Peak season demand (e.g., before Chinese New Year)
  • Coordination between shipping companies and logistics providers

Planning ahead and choosing an experienced freight forwarder can help avoid unnecessary delays.

Are there trade agreements between China and Greece?

Yes, Greece and China benefit from broader EU–China trade agreements, which simplify international shipping and customs cooperation.
These agreements promote efficient freight services, mutual recognition of standards, and lower tariffs on specific categories of goods imported.

What documents are required for importing goods to Greece?

You’ll typically need:

  • Commercial invoice
  • Detailed packing list
  • Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
  • Certificate of origin
  • Import license (if required)

Accurate documentation speeds up customs clearance and reduces the risk of fines or inspection delays.

How can I find the best freight forwarder for shipping from China to Greece?

Choose a reliable freight forwarder with proven experience in China–Europe logistics. Look for providers offering flexible shipping options, transparent shipping costs, customs brokerage, and multiple freight services—including sea freight, air freight, rail freight, and door-to-door delivery.
Tonlexing Logistics, for example, provides comprehensive international shipping solutions from China to Greece with professional support at every stage.