Canada and Greece enjoy a robust trade relationship, accounting for over $300 million per year in bilateral trade. This relationship is further strengthened by the over 200,000 Canadians who claim Greek heritage, along with the 100,000 Canadians visiting Greece each year. If you are a Canadian company looking to expand, finding the best solutions for shipping to Greece is essential.
Canada is a major exporter of goods such as wheat, lumber, and minerals, while Greece is globally recognized for its tourism and shipping industries. The Canadian European Free Trade Agreement (CETA) has created incredible opportunities for businesses in both nations that require low-cost delivery options.
Table of Contents
1. 2026 Important Update: EU Customs2. Best Shipping Options to Greece
3. Shipping Cargo and Packages
4. Customs Clearance and CETA Duty Free Import
5. Shipping from Greece to Canada
2026 EU Customs for Parcel Import to Greek Consumers Less Than €150
While this guide focuses on Greece, businesses shipping to any EU country should note a 2026 change for B2C parcel imports under €150. A minimum €3 duty per parcel applies to each distinct item category (based on tariff sub-headings) contained within the parcel.
Example Calculation:
- The Order: 1 smart phone charger+ 1 denim jacket + 1 polyester blend jacket, value €140
- The Assessment: The electronic accessary and clothing have entirely different tariff headings. The different material in each jacket are distinguished in separate sub-headings.
- The Cost: 3 categories x €3 = €9 total customs duty.
Note: An additional €2 handling fee will applies per consignment (November 2026).
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Best International Shipping Options: Canada to Greece
There are a few primary options for shipping freight between Greece and Canada:
- Air Freight: This is the fastest option, featuring economy air solutions for cost savings.
- Ocean Freight: The best choice for large commercial orders and bulk goods.
- Local Post: Postal options are generally best for individuals shipping small packages or personal items.
- Commercial Carriers: FedEx, DHL, and UPS air options are well known, with tracking information readily available.
When choosing a shipping method, consider factors such as the size and weight of your freight, your delivery timeline, and shipping volume. Get a comparison quote from our team for commercial volume and heavier parcels over 10 kilograms.
Shipping Cargo and Packages to Greece
Shipping Cargo
Companies can choose between air cargo and sea freight. Cargo that ships via air usually delivers within a week, while ocean cargo averages between one to three months door-to-door.
- LCL Cargo: Less than Container Load services share space in a container with other consignments. It requires additional transit time for loading and de-consolidation.
- FCL Cargo: Full Container Loads ship via dedicated 20-foot or 40-foot containers.
Which is cheaper? Ocean cargo involves many surcharges that can add significant costs for smaller shipments. Consignments under 100 kilograms often have a lower overall price when shipped via air.
Shipping International Packages
Canada Post is the preferred option for individuals shipping small packages. Packages sent via Canada Post are delivered by Hellenic Post, the state-owned provider of postal services in Greece.
Canada Post Services to Greece:
- Small Packet International Surface and Air
- International Parcel Surface
- Xpresspost International (Delivery within 2 weeks)
Shipping via FedEx and UPS
FedEx and UPS are the largest express carriers in North America. Along with DHL, they offer dependable international express and economy services from Canada to Athens and across Greece.
Customs Clearance and Regulations
Canadian Export Declarations
Shipments from Canada to Greece valued at CAD $2,000 or above require a Canadian export declaration. Goods with restrictions, regardless of their value, also require reporting. Please confirm your compliance with the Canadian Export Reporting System (CERS).
EORI Number for Imports to Greece
Before shipping commercial goods, verify the EORI number of the consignee. An Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number is a mandatory EU identification number for businesses importing or exporting goods.
Greek Customs Clearance and VAT
Greece customs assesses duty and taxes based on the CIF value (the cost of the goods plus transportation and insurance). Greece uses the Harmonized System (HS) codes to determine the rate of duty.
Value Added Tax (VAT) in Greece applies to shipments from Canada. The standard VAT in Greece is 23 percent, though some goods like books and newspapers are charged a lesser rate of 6.5 percent.
Duty-Free Clearance Under CETA
The Canadian European Free Trade Agreement (CETA) allows for the duty-free entry of Canadian goods imported to Greece. To qualify for duty-free status, the parcel must include proper origin declarations. CETA rules do not require a formal standalone certificate. A specific origin declaration statement on your commercial invoice is usually sufficient.
Shipping from Greece to Canada
Common carrier shipping options from Greece to Canada include Hellenic Post (delivered by Canada Post), DHL, FedEx, and UPS. You can easily request a spot quote to compare the cheapest express or economy air options.
Clearance of Consignments to Canada
Consignments imported from Greece to Canada are subject to duty and taxes. However, shipments valued under CAD $20 are cleared duty-free and tax-free. Additionally, shipments under CAD $3,300 can be imported under Courier Low-Value Shipment (CLVS) processes, streamlining the border experience.
CBSA Online Portal (CARM)
The Canada Border Services Agency Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) online portal simplifies the process of importing commercial goods to Canada. It is highly recommended that Canadian importers familiarize themselves with CARM requirements.
Need Help Shipping to Greece or the EU?
Jet Worldwide provides best-in-class shipping options and logistical support.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this blog post is for general informational purposes only.
