Ocean Freight to Greece
Shipping to Greece by sea is a strategic choice for businesses moving cargo to Southern Europe, the Balkans, and Eastern Mediterranean trade hubs. With its extensive coastline, strong commercial fleet, and modern port infrastructure, Greece offers direct connections to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
iContainers enables shippers to compare rates, plan routes, and book reliable ocean freight services to Greece efficiently.
Why Ship to Greece with iContainers?
Greece is a central maritime gateway for European and international trade, with Piraeus ranked among the busiest ports in the Mediterranean. Efficient customs processes, competitive port handling, and strong feeder networks make Greece an advantageous entry point for EU distribution.
Reliable Door-to-Door & Port-to-Port Options
iContainers provides flexible shipping solutions adapted to cargo size, volume, and delivery needs:
- Door-to-door, door-to-port, and port-to-port shipping
- Coordinated pick-up and inland trucking within Greece
- Real-time tracking and milestone notifications
This helps businesses maintain predictable supply chains while controlling costs.
Competitive Freight Rates from Major Origins
With access to multiple carriers and weekly sailings, iContainers offers competitive rates from:
- The United States
- China & East Asia
- Northern & Western Europe
- Middle East and North Africa
You can compare prices, transit times, and services instantly before booking.
Expertise in Greece Trade Routes
Our team supports shippers moving goods into Greece's main import channels, helping you:
- Select the best port based on your origin and timeline
- Understand local regulations and EU customs requirements
- Avoid common bottlenecks during peak Mediterranean seasons
Ocean Freight Services to Greece
FCL Shipping to Greece
Full Container Load (FCL) is ideal for:
- High-volume or frequent shipments
- Cargo requiring dedicated space
- More predictable transit schedules
Available equipment includes 20', 40', 40' HC, reefers, flat racks, and open tops.
LCL Shipping to Greece
Less than Container Load (LCL) suits smaller shipments:
- Pay only for the space your goods require
- Consolidated with other cargo heading to Greece
- Cost-effective for occasional or test-market shipments
Shipping Costs to Greece
Multiple variables affect total freight cost:
What Influences Your Ocean Freight Cost?
- Origin port distance and routing (direct vs transshipment)
- Container type & mode (FCL/LCL)
- Cargo weight, volume, and HS code
- Seasonal market conditions (summer peaks, fuel adjustments)
- Greek port handling fees & inland haulage
Using iContainers' platform, you can see an itemized cost breakdown before booking.
Container shipping rates
How much does it cost to ship a container to Greece?
Transit Times to Greece
Transit times depend on origin, carrier, and service type:
Average Transit Times from the U.S
- East Coast → Greece: approx. 18-28 days
- Gulf Coast → Greece: approx. 22-32 days
- West Coast → Greece: approx. 30-40+ days (via transshipment)
Transit Times from Europe & Asia
- Northern Europe → Greece: 10-18 days
- China & East Asia → Greece: 25-40 days
- Middle East → Greece: 8-15 days
Factors That Affect Delivery Speed
- Seasonal congestion at Mediterranean hubs
- Transshipment delays at major hubs (e.g., Rotterdam, Suez region)
- Documentation or customs inconsistencies
Main Ports in Greece
Port of Piraeus
Greece's largest and most important container port, offering:
- Direct sailings from Asia & Europe
- High-capacity terminals
- Strong rail links into the Balkans and Eastern Europe
Port of Thessaloniki
Key gateway for Northern Greece, Balkans, and Central Europe:
- Efficient handling for containerized & breakbulk cargo
- Strong inland connectivity
Port of Heraklion (Crete)
Important regional port for Eastern Mediterranean distribution.
Which Port Should You Choose?
- Piraeus → Best for most importers, fastest connections
- Thessaloniki → Ideal for Balkans-bound or Northern Greece deliveries
- Heraklion → For Mediterranean regional distribution
How to Book Your Shipment to Greece
Required Documents
Typical paperwork includes:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading / Sea Waybill
- Certificate of Origin (if required)
- Product-specific certificates (sanitary, fumigation, etc.)
Customs & Regulations Overview
As an EU member state, Greece follows EU import rules:
- Accurate HS codes and declared values
- Compliance with EU safety, labeling, and product standards
- Possible duties depending on origin & trade agreements
Step-by-Step Booking Process
- Enter origin, destination, and cargo details on iContainers.
- Compare rates & transit times from multiple carriers.
- Select service level and confirm booking.
- Upload documentation and schedule pick-up.
- Track your shipment until delivery in Greece.
FAQs About Shipping to Greece
The cost of shipping a container to Greece depends on your origin, container type (FCL or LCL), cargo weight and volume, and current market rates. The most accurate way to get a price is to request an instant quote on the iContainers platform, where you'll see all charges itemized before booking.
Transit times to Greece vary by origin and service. Shipments from nearby ports in the Americas can arrive within days, while shipments from Europe or Asia may take several weeks. When you request a quote with iContainers, estimated transit times are displayed alongside the rates so you can choose the option that best fits your schedule.
The best container type depends on your cargo's size, weight, and characteristics:
- 20' or 40' dry containers for most general cargo
- 40' High Cube for lighter, voluminous goods
- Reefer containers for temperature-controlled products
- Special equipment (open top, flat rack) for oversized items
If you're unsure which option is right for you, our specialists can review your cargo details and recommend the most suitable container type.
