In the picturesque landscapes of Greece, whether you're visiting temporarily or residing long-term, there may come a time when you need to send cherished souvenirs, important documents, or personal belongings back to your home country. Navigating unfamiliar international shipping procedures can be daunting. This guide provides detailed instructions for each step of the process to ensure your items arrive safely, quickly, and cost-effectively.
Packaging: Safety First
Given the long distances involved in international shipping, proper packaging is essential to protect your items during transit. Consider these key packaging techniques:
- Use sturdy boxes: Opt for high-quality cardboard boxes or postal-approved containers that can withstand pressure and impacts.
- Include ample cushioning: Line the bottom of boxes with thick padding materials like foam, bubble wrap, or filler to absorb shocks.
- Wrap fragile items separately: Protect delicate objects with multiple layers of bubble wrap or packing paper.
- Fill empty spaces: Prevent movement during transit by filling gaps with cushioning materials.
- Secure all openings: Use high-quality tape to seal all seams multiple times, ensuring boxes remain closed.
Shipping Methods: Choosing the Right Option
When shipping from Greece, you have several primary options:
- Greek Postal Service (ELTA): Offers standard mail, registered mail, and express services. Standard mail is the most economical but slowest option, while registered mail includes tracking capabilities. Express services provide faster delivery at higher costs. ELTA is suitable for non-urgent, lower-value items.
- International couriers: Companies like DHL, UPS, and FedEx offer faster, more reliable services with door-to-door delivery and advanced tracking systems. These services are more expensive but ideal for urgent or valuable shipments.
Customs Declaration: Accurate Information Prevents Delays
International customs regulations require proper declaration of shipped items. For packages exceeding €430 in value, you must complete a CN22 customs form, attaching it prominently to your shipment. The form requires:
- Complete sender and recipient names and addresses
- Detailed item descriptions and accurate values
- Country of origin (typically Greece)
- Reason for export (usually "personal effects" or "gift")
Shipping and Tracking: Monitoring Your Package
After packaging and completing documentation, you may deliver your package to a postal office or courier service location, or schedule a pickup. Registered mail and courier services provide tracking numbers to monitor your shipment's progress online.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does shipping take from Greece? Delivery times vary by service, ranging from several weeks for standard mail to just days for express services.
- Can perishable items be shipped via ELTA? No, ELTA prohibits shipping perishable goods.
- Are customs duties applicable? Depending on destination country regulations, duties may apply if your shipment exceeds duty-free allowances.
Additional Recommendations
- Review shipping terms and restrictions before mailing
- Consider purchasing shipping insurance for valuable items
- Retain all shipping receipts and tracking information