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Moving to Greece from the USA

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Moving to Greece from the USA

Moving to Greece from the USA is a significant step, and ensuring a smooth transition for your household items is crucial. At SDC International Shipping, we understand the importance of this journey and are here to make the process as seamless as possible for you.

Greece’s allure is undeniable, drawing in many Americans with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you are drawn to its iconic landmarks or picturesque islands, making the decision to settle in Greece is a bold move towards a different way of life.

So, you may wonder, how can SDC International Shipping assist you in this adventure. Our expertise lies in ensuring that your shipping experience is not only successful but also enriching. From navigating the logistics of international moves to providing personalized support, we are committed to making your transition to Greece a positive and fulfilling experience.

 

The Shipping Process to Greece From the USA

Embarking on a move from the USA to Greece is an exciting journey, and at SDC International Shipping, we are dedicated to making the process as smooth and efficient as possible for you. Here is a breakdown of how we handle shipping your personal effects to Greece:

 

Calculating Volume of Goods

Our first step is to assess the volume of your personal effects. By understanding the quantity of items you are shipping, we can determine the packing requirements, container size, and shipment method that best suit your needs. This detailed evaluation ensures an accurate calculation for a seamless shipping experience.

Getting a Quote for Moving to Greece

Once we have a clear picture of your moving requirements, we work on providing you with a tailored quote. We believe that each move is unique, and our quotes reflect this understanding by considering the amount of goods, transportation, and any additional services you may require. This personalized approach ensures that the quote fits your specific situation, whether you are moving from Los Angeles or New York.

Door-to-Door Delivery with SDC International Shipping

We offer comprehensive door-to-door delivery services, starting from picking up your household items from any location in the USA. Additionally, you can opt for our packing and loading services for added convenience. Once your items are securely packed and loaded, we transport the container to the port warehouse, where all necessary preparations for sea or ocean freight are made. You will then receive a Bill of Lading along with an estimated time of arrival (ETA) for your shipment.

Moving to Greece from the USA with Ocean Freight

When it comes to ocean freighting your belongings, you have the option of choosing between a shared container service or a full container service. These choices allow you to select the most suitable shipping method based on your needs and preferences for your move to Greece.

At SDC International Shipping, we are committed to providing you with a seamless and stress-free experience as you transition from the USA to Greece.

Shipping with Shared Container

When it comes to choosing the right shipping option for your move from the USA to Greece, understanding the differences between shared containers, private containers, and air freight can help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs. Opting for a shared container means sharing space with two or three customers in the same container. This choice is often the most cost-effective as you only pay for the space you use. However, shared containers may result in delays as you may need to wait until the container is filled with other customers’ items before it can be shipped. This delay can sometimes extend the time it takes for your belongings to reach their destination.

Shipping with Private Container

In contrast to shared containers, a private container involves renting a 20 or 40-foot container solely for your personal effects. This option is recommended for clients with a large volume of household goods. With a private container, there is no waiting for other customers to fill the container, providing a more direct and efficient shipping process.

Shipping Through Air Freight

If you need to ship household items fast, air freight moving is the right choice. With this shipping method, the whole process can be completed within a week. Airfreight comes at a high rate, so go for it if money isn’t a problem.

Most goods are shipped to Piraeus in Greece. You can book door-to-door services, and we’ll deliver at any address in the country.

Shipping with Private Container

Contrary to shared containers, a private one is when you pay for a 20 or 40-foot container to ship your personal effects. We advise this option, especially for clients who have many household goods. Plus, there’s no need to wait for others to fill the container.

Shipping Through Air Freight

If speed is a priority and you need to ship your household items quickly, air freight is the ideal choice. Air freight offers a fast shipping solution, with the entire process typically completed within a week. While air freight provides rapid delivery, it comes at a higher cost compared to sea freight. Consider air freight when time is of the essence and budget is not a limiting factor. 

Most goods shipped to Greece are directed to Piraeus, a major port in the country. Additionally, you have the option to book door-to-door services, allowing for convenient delivery to any address within Greece.

When it comes to the customs clearance process for exporting and importing your household goods during an international move with SDC International Shipping, it’s essential to understand the procedures involved to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s an overview of the export and import customs clearance processes:

Export Customs Clearance:

  • Before your household goods depart, they undergo an export customs check to ensure compliance with regulations. Our team prepares the necessary documentation, which is reviewed by customs officers to verify that your items meet all requirements. Once export clearance is granted, your cargo is deemed ready for shipment via sea freight. At this stage, a bill of lading may also be issued, documenting the goods being transported.

Import Customs Clearance:

  • Upon arrival at the destination country, your household items undergo import clearance procedures. Various regulations and requirements apply depending on the nature of the goods being imported. Our team will keep you informed in advance of any specific taxes, duties, or additional charges that may be applicable during the import process. By providing you with this information proactively, we aim to ensure transparency and help you navigate the import customs clearance process smoothly.

Navigating export and import customs clearance is a crucial aspect of international moving, and at SDC International Shipping, we are dedicated to guiding you through these processes with expertise and efficiency, making your move from the USA to Greece a seamless and hassle-free experience.

When considering the shipment time from the USA to Greece with SDC International Shipping, it’s important to take into account several factors that can influence the overall duration of the process. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Factors Affecting Shipping Time:

    • The total shipping time can vary based on factors such as the specific locations of origin and destination within the USA and Greece, as well as the type of shipment selected (shared container, private container, or air freight). Additionally, factors like customs clearance procedures, transit times, and any unforeseen delays can impact the overall shipping timeline.

Stages of Shipping:

    • Loaded containers typically undergo several stages before reaching the vessel and ultimately arriving at the destination in Greece. These stages may include packing and loading, transportation to the port, customs clearance processes, sea or air transit, and final delivery to the designated address in Greece. Each stage plays a crucial role in ensuring a successful and timely delivery of your household items.

Understanding the complexities involved in the shipping process and the various stages that your shipment goes through is essential for setting realistic expectations regarding the shipment time from the USA to Greece. At SDC International Shipping, we strive to provide clear communication and support throughout each stage of the shipping journey, ensuring a smooth and efficient relocation process for our clients.

Main Shipping Ports in Greece

  • When shipping goods to Greece, understanding the main shipping ports in the country is essential for a successful and efficient logistics process. Here are some of the major shipping ports in Greece:

    • Port of Piraeus:

      • Located west of Athens on the Mediterranean Sea, the Port of Piraeus is the primary terminal for importing containers in Greece. Not only is it a major hub for international trade, but it also holds historical significance as one of the ancient ports in the country. Its strategic location and modern facilities make it a vital gateway for goods entering and exiting Greece.
    • Athens:

      • As the capital city of Greece, Athens also serves as a significant shipping port. With its proximity to the Port of Piraeus, Athens plays a crucial role in facilitating trade and transportation of goods within the region.
    • Thessaloniki:

      • Thessaloniki, located in northern Greece, is another major shipping port that serves as a key gateway for goods entering the country. It is an important commercial and industrial center, contributing to the efficient movement of goods in and out of Greece.
    • Santorini and Mykonos:

      • The islands of Santorini and Mykonos, known for their picturesque landscapes and tourism attractions, also have notable shipping ports. These ports cater to the transport of goods to support the local economies and tourism industries on these popular Greek islands.

    Understanding the significance of these major shipping ports in Greece can help streamline the shipping process and ensure timely and efficient delivery of goods to their respective destinations. At SDC International Shipping, we leverage these key ports to provide our clients with reliable and effective shipping services to and from Greece.



Moving to Greece from the USA with Pets

When planning to move to Greece from the USA with your beloved pets, it’s essential to be aware of the specific requirements and regulations involved in pet relocation. Here are some key points to consider when bringing your cat, dog, or even birds to Greece:

  • Rabies Certificate:

    • To bring a cat or dog to Greece, a certificate of a rabies test conducted within 60 days prior to entry is necessary. This test must be verified by an EU laboratory and the documentation must be stamped by a licensed veterinarian. This is a crucial step to ensure the health and safety of your pet during the relocation process.
  • Health Certificate for Birds:

    • For birds, a health certificate is also required to meet the regulations for entry into Greece. This certificate confirms that your birds are in good health and fit for travel.

Navigating the various rules and documentation requirements for pet relocation can be complex, but at SDC International Shipping, we are here to assist you every step of the way. Our experienced team can help ensure that all necessary paperwork and preparations are in order to relocate your pets safely and smoothly to Greece.

Shipping a Motorcycle to Greece

When bringing a motorcycle to Greece, certain requirements must be met. You should have owned the motorcycle for a minimum of 6 months before importation, and it must be at least 4 years old with mileage not exceeding 50,000 km.

Regulations may vary based on the motorcycle’s make, model, and specifications, so it’s advisable to verify current import requirements with the local customs department.

During the shipping process, you will need to provide essential documentation like the original title, purchase invoice, bill of sale (if owned for less than 6 months), proof of insurance, and valid ID. These documents are crucial for customs clearance in Greece.

Additionally, consider potential adjustments to meet EU standards, such as converting speed measurements from MPH to KPH, ensuring compliance with exhaust, lighting, and emissions requirements. You may also opt for transit insurance to protect against damage or loss during shipment.

The typical shipping process involves transporting the motorcycle to a US port, loading it onto a ship (either Ro-Ro or container service), and then completing customs clearance upon arrival in Greece. Planning ahead and ensuring all necessary documentation and preparations are in order will help facilitate a smooth and successful shipment of your motorcycle to Greece.

Documents Required for Relocation to Greece

When shipping household goods to Greece, it’s important to be mindful of the bureaucratic procedures that come with the process. To ensure a smooth customs clearance, detailed preparation and documentation are key. Here are some essential documents and steps to consider:

  • Detailed Inventory:

    • A comprehensive inventory listing each item being shipped is crucial. This inventory should be notarized by the Greek Consulate to authenticate its contents.
  • Authorization and Declaration Forms:

    • Authorization and declaration forms must bear an official stamp from the Greek Embassy to validate them.
  • Required Documents:

    • Essential documents include ID documents, Bill of Lading, temporary residence permit in Greece, T2L blank authorized by Customs, US residency card, proof of US residency (such as utility bills or tax filings), and a bank guarantee.
  • Value-Added Tax (VAT):

    • Goods shipped from non-EU countries are subject to VAT in Greece. The good news is that personal effects and household goods typically qualify for duty-free status.

Navigating the bureaucratic requirements can be intricate, but proper preparation and adherence to the necessary steps can streamline the customs clearance process. By ensuring that all documentation is in order and properly notarized and stamped, you can facilitate the smooth transit of your household goods to Greece.

Embarking on a Move to Greece from the USA? We’re Here to Help

Are you considering a move to Greece from the USA and seeking assistance with the relocation process?

SDC International Shipping, an experienced international moving company, provides a comprehensive solution for families relocating overseas from the USA to Greece.

For additional information on moving to Greece with our services, we invite you to fill out our convenient three-step quote form. Alternatively, you can reach out to us directly via phone at:

📞 (877) 339-0267

Our dedicated team is here to assist you every step of the way, making your transition to Greece as smooth and stress-free as possible. Contact us today to start planning your international move with confidence.

 

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