Organising your belongings for a move to Greece doesn’t need to be stressful. With the right planning, you can find a shipping option that fits your budget, timeline and lifestyle needs.
You’ve secured your Greek home, completed the paperwork and sorted out the admin. Now comes the practical part – getting your belongings safely from the UK to Greece. From sofas and dining tables to treasured keepsakes, here’s how to move everything smoothly, what it’s likely to cost and which options work best for you.
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Contents
How much does it cost to move to Greece?
Costs vary depending on how much you are moving and how quickly you need it to arrive. A small apartment’s worth of belongings moved by sea from the UK to Greece, including door-to-door service with packing and unpacking, usually costs between £1,500 and £2,500. The process typically takes around eight weeks. Air freight is two to three times more expensive but can deliver in one to three days. Road transport is another option, though driving time from central Britain to central Greece is about 30 hours without breaks.
| Method | Typical timeframe | Estimated cost |
|---|---|---|
| Sea freight | 4-8 weeks | £1,500-£2,500 |
| Air freight | 1-3 days | 2-3 times sea freight |
| Road transport | Around 30 hours driving (plus logistics) | Variable |
Shipping methods to Greece
Your options will depend on how much you’re moving, where in Greece your property is and how quickly you want your possessions. Many people combine services – for example, taking essentials by air and larger furniture by sea.
Moving by land
Driving from Calais to Athens covers around 3,000km and takes 30 hours. The route goes through Germany, Austria and the Balkans. Alternatively, you can drive to Italy and take a ferry to Greece, cutting down on driving distance. If you hire a private van service, bear in mind the return leg is often charged too.
Moving by air
If speed matters most, air freight is the way to go. It’s ideal if you’re moving a limited amount, such as when setting up a holiday home. If you’re relocating to an island, you’ll need onward transport by ferry, which is easily arranged from Athens.
Moving by sea
Shipping is usually the most cost-effective option, especially for furniture and bulky items. Sea freight takes at least four to seven days for delivery but can stretch to several weeks depending on the route and consolidation of cargo. Large removal companies often group shipments together to keep prices lower.
Do you need to take everything?
One of the joys of life in Greece is that it’s less about possessions and more about experiences. Many people choose to travel light and buy furniture locally, which is better suited to the climate. You’ll also find major international shops like Ikea if you prefer a familiar option. The key is to balance the sentimental value of items you can’t leave behind with the practicality of starting fresh.
FAQs about moving possessions to Greece
How much does it cost to ship something from the UK to Greece?
For smaller items, courier services can cost from around £30 upwards, depending on weight and delivery speed. For larger household shipments, expect £1,500 to £2,500 by sea or significantly more by air.
How much does it cost to move from the UK to Greece?
The cost of moving a small apartment is typically £1,500 to £2,500 by sea. Larger moves can cost more, and prices vary depending on insurance, packing services and whether you use groupage (shared container space).
Can I just move to Greece from the UK?
Yes, but since Brexit you will need to consider visa and residency requirements. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days in any 180-day period, you must apply for the appropriate residency permit before moving permanently.
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