Car Shipping to Greece

Shipping Your Car to Piraeus, Greece: A Comprehensive Guide

Whether you are relocating to Greece, exporting a vehicle for business, or planning an extended holiday, shipping your car to Piraeus requires a clear understanding of the services, regulations, and preparation involved. At Ship Cars Ltd, we specialise in secure and efficient vehicle transport, offering both RoRo and dedicated container shipping options. This guide provides all the essential information you need for a smooth process.

Why Ship Your Vehicle to Greece?

Individuals and businesses choose to ship cars to Greece for a variety of compelling reasons:

• Relocation and Expatriation: Many individuals moving to Greece for work, retirement, or to join family members opt to bring their personal vehicle for convenience and familiarity.

• Vehicle Export and Resale: Businesses may export vehicles to Greece where demand or market conditions are favourable.

• Tourism and Extended Stays: Tourists or individuals planning long-term holidays may choose to ship their vehicle to explore Greece and its islands at their own pace.

• Specialty Vehicle Transport: Shipping classic cars, collector’s items, or unique vehicles for events, exhibitions, or personal projects.

• Importing a Purchased Vehicle: Buying a vehicle in the UK and having it shipped to Greece.

Our Vehicle Shipping Services to Piraeus

We offer flexible and secure solutions to meet your specific shipping needs.

1. RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) Shipping

• Description: This is a highly cost-effective method where your vehicle is driven directly onto a specialised vessel, known as a RoRo ship, and securely stowed for transit. It’s a straightforward process akin to boarding a ferry.

• Ideal For: Operational cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, caravans, and motorhomes that can be driven onto the vessel.

• Key Requirements:

  • The vehicle must be in fully operational condition.

  • Crucially, no personal belongings or any other items are permitted inside the vehicle.

• Restrictions:

  • Hybrid vehicles are not allowed on RoRo services due to safety regulations concerning their batteries.

  • Electric vehicles are also not allowed on RoRo services.

• Learn More: For detailed information, please visit our RoRo Shipping page.

2. Dedicated Container Shipping

• Description: Your vehicle is loaded into its own private shipping container (typically 20ft or 40ft). This method provides the highest level of security and protection for your vehicle and any accompanying items.

• Ideal For:

  • All types of vehicles, including non-running cars, luxury vehicles, classic cars, and motorcycles.

  • Situations where you need to ship personal effects, spare parts, or tools alongside your vehicle.

  • Hybrid and electric vehicles.

• Key Features:

  • Offers superior protection against theft, damage, and the elements.

  • Allows for secure packing of personal belongings, provided they comply with Greek import regulations.

  • Suitable for hybrid and electric vehicles. Electric vehicles typically incur a hazard surcharge of £295 due to battery regulations.

  • Vehicles do not need to be working for container shipping, as they can be winched or forklifted into the container.

• Learn More: Discover the advantages of container shipping on our Container Shipping page.

Shipping Rates to Piraeus, Greece

We offer competitive pricing for shipping your vehicle to Piraeus. These rates are indicative and subject to change based on specific vehicle dimensions, chosen service, and current market conditions. A formal quote will be provided upon request.

RoRo Shipping Rates

• Small Car (e.g., Golf): £695 per vehicle.

• Large Car (e.g., Range Rover): £795 per vehicle.

Container Shipping Rates

• Rates for dedicated container shipping are provided upon request. Please contact us for a detailed quote, as prices can vary based on container size and specific loading requirements.

Transit Time and Sailing Frequency

• Estimated Transit Time: Approximately 14 days from UK port to Piraeus.

• Sailing Frequency: We operate regular sailings, with departures three times a month, ensuring flexibility for your shipping schedule.

Importing a Vehicle to Greece: Regulations, Duties, and Taxes

Importing a vehicle into Greece involves adherence to EU and Greek national regulations, including potential duties and taxes.

Rules for Importation:

1. Permanent Export / Import for Resale:

   • When permanently importing a vehicle into Greece, you will be subject to standard import duties and VAT.

   • You will need to comply with EU type-approval standards for vehicles. If the vehicle does not meet these standards, it may require modification or may not be eligible for registration.

   • Authority: For official guidance, consult the Hellenic Republic Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport and the Greek Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE).

     • Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport: Search for their official website for vehicle import and registration regulations.

     • AADE (Customs): (www.aade.gr) – This is the primary source for customs duties, taxes, and import procedures. Look for sections related to “Travellers” or “Importing Goods.”

2. Transfer of Residence (ToR):

   • If you are moving your permanent residence to Greece from the UK, you may be eligible to import your personal vehicle duty and tax-free under ToR provisions.

   • Eligibility Criteria:

     • You must have owned and used the vehicle in the UK for at least six months prior to your move.

     • You must have resided outside Greece for at least 12 consecutive months prior to establishing residency in Greece.

     • You must obtain an official ToR authorisation from the Greek authorities before shipping the vehicle.

   • Application: Apply through the Greek Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE). The process can be complex, and obtaining authorisation can take time.

   • Authority: Refer to the Greek Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) website for detailed ToR application procedures.

3. Temporary Import:

   • If you are importing a vehicle temporarily (e.g., for tourism, study, or a specific project), you may be able to do so under a Temporary Importation Permit (TIP) or via an “Article Code” (Carnet de Passages en Douane may also be relevant for certain contexts).

   • Requirements: This typically involves providing proof of vehicle ownership, registration, insurance, and a commitment to re-export the vehicle within a specified period. The vehicle must not be sold or transferred while under temporary import status.

   • Authority: Consult the Greek Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) for specific procedures related to temporary importation.

Inspections and Permits

• Pre-Shipment Inspections (UK):

  • Condition Report: We strongly recommend obtaining a condition report for your vehicle before shipping. This is essential for insurance purposes and documents the vehicle’s state prior to transit.

    • Cost: Free of charge if we collect your vehicle; a fee of £35 applies if you deliver the vehicle to us.

• Mandatory Greek Inspections:

  • KTEO (Technical Control): All vehicles imported into Greece for permanent registration must undergo a technical inspection (KTEO) to ensure they meet Greek roadworthiness and environmental standards. This is usually done after the vehicle has cleared customs and you are ready to register it. You can find KTEO centres across Greece.

  • Customs Clearance: Greek customs officials at the port of Piraeus will inspect the vehicle to verify documentation and compliance with import regulations.

• Permits:

  • Transfer of Residence (ToR) Authorisation: Mandatory if you intend to claim duty and tax exemptions. Must be obtained before shipping.

  • Temporary Importation Permit (TIP): Required for temporary imports.

  • Customs Declaration: Necessary for all imports.

Required Paperwork

Accurate and complete documentation is crucial for a smooth import process into Greece.

Paperwork Required in the UK:

1. Vehicle Registration Certificate (V5C): Your proof of UK registration and ownership.

2. Proof of Ownership: Bill of Sale or invoice if the vehicle was recently purchased.

3. Identification: Copy of your passport or driving license.

4. Shipping Booking Confirmation: Details of your chosen service.

5. ToR Authorisation: If applicable, your pre-approved document.

6. Export Declaration: Handled by the shipping company.

Paperwork Required at the Destination Port (Piraeus):

1. Bill of Lading: The primary shipping document issued by the carrier.

2. Customs Declaration Forms: Specific to Greek import requirements.

3. Proof of Ownership: Original V5C, Bill of Sale.

4. Identification: Passport.

5. ToR Authorisation: If claiming relief.

6. Temporary Importation Permit (TIP): For temporary imports.

7. Invoice: Showing the value of the vehicle.

8. Proof of Insurance: Valid for Greece.

9. Technical Inspection (KTEO) Certificate: Required for permanent registration.

Duty and Tax in Greece

Importing a vehicle into Greece, as an EU member state, involves specific duties and taxes:

• Import Duty: Applied to the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value of the vehicle. The rate can vary.

• VAT (Value Added Tax): Currently 24% in Greece, applied to the CIF value plus any import duty.

• Special Consumption Tax (SCT): This is a significant tax on imported vehicles, calculated based on the vehicle’s engine size, CO2 emissions, and age. It can be substantial.

• VAT on Used Vehicles: For used vehicles imported from outside the EU, VAT is payable on the CIF value plus the customs duty.

• ToR Exemption: If you have obtained ToR authorisation, you may be exempt from these duties and taxes for your personal vehicle.

Important: These taxes and duties can significantly increase the overall cost of importing a vehicle. It is highly recommended to consult the Greek Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) or a Greek customs broker for precise calculations based on your specific vehicle.

Vehicle Collection in the UK

We offer convenient collection services from across the UK to prepare your vehicle for its journey to Piraeus:

• Transporter Collection: Your vehicle is safely transported to the port on a specialised trailer.

• Trade Plate Driver: If your vehicle is fully operational and has a valid MOT, it can be driven to the port by our experienced drivers.

Shipping Hybrid and Electric Vehicles

• RoRo: Not permitted due to battery regulations.

• Container & Shared Container: Permitted.

• Hazard Surcharge: Electric vehicles shipped via container typically incur a hazard surcharge of approximately £295 due to safety regulations concerning their high-voltage batteries.

Insurance and Risk Coverage

Protect your investment with our comprehensive insurance options:

• Total Loss Cover: Covers complete loss due to fire or water damage during transit.

  • Cost: 1% of vehicle value + shipping cost.

• Comprehensive Cover: Covers cosmetic damage, fire, and water damage.

  • Cost: 1.5% of vehicle value + shipping cost.

  • Eligibility: The vehicle cannot be older than 10 years. A detailed condition report is mandatory for this cover.

• Condition Report:

  • Free of charge if we collect your vehicle.

  • A fee of £35 applies if you choose to deliver the vehicle to us for the condition report.

What’s Not Allowed to Ship (Prohibited Items and Restrictions)

Strict regulations govern what can and cannot be shipped.

Prohibited Items:

• Hazardous Materials: Including flammable, explosive, corrosive, or toxic substances.

• Illegal Items: Such as drugs, unlicensed firearms, or counterfeit goods.

• Perishable Goods: Foodstuffs, plants, or organic materials that could pose biosecurity risks.

Restrictions:

• Personal Belongings:

  • RoRo: Strictly forbidden inside the vehicle.

  • Container (Dedicated): Permitted, provided they comply with Greek import laws and are declared. Avoid shipping prohibited items. Heavy items should be secured and not placed on seats.

  • Shared Container: Generally not permitted due to space limitations and potential issues with different cargo types.

• Fuel: The fuel tank must be nearly empty for safety reasons.

• Vehicle Condition: RoRo requires operational vehicles; non-running vehicles must be shipped via container service.

• Age Restrictions: While not as strict as some countries, older vehicles might face higher taxes or import complexities. Always verify current regulations.

Cost Breakdown

The total cost of shipping your vehicle to Piraeus comprises several elements:

• Shipping Freight: The base cost for RoRo or container service, dependent on vehicle size and type.

• Port Fees: Charges levied at UK and Piraeus ports for handling, berthing, and administration.

• Documentation Fees: For preparing and processing all necessary shipping and export/import paperwork.

• Insurance Premiums: Calculated based on the vehicle’s value and the chosen insurance coverage.

• Customs Duties & Taxes: Import duty, VAT, and Special Consumption Tax levied by Greek authorities.

• Clearing Agent Fees: For customs brokerage services in Piraeus.

• UK Collection/Delivery: If you utilise our transport services.

• Hazard Surcharge: For electric vehicles in containers (£295).

• Condition Report Fee: £35 if you deliver the vehicle to us.

Further Resources

To ensure a smooth and informed shipping process, we recommend consulting these helpful guides:

• RoRo Shipping Explained

• Container Shipping Explained

• How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping

• Prepare Your Car for Export

• How to Avoid Damage with International Shipping

• Top 10 Mistakes People Make During International Car Shipping

Shipping your vehicle to Greece is a significant undertaking. By understanding these guidelines and utilising our expertise, you can ensure a secure and efficient journey for your car. Contact us today for a personalised quote and expert assistance.

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