Removals from UK to Greece should feel like a fresh start, not a fight with logistics. You are trading grey mornings for Aegean light, and your belongings deserve the same calm, carefully planned journey. With VANonsite, every mile is visible through live GPS, every box is handled with care, and your schedule stays on track.
Here is how we make it simple. We clarify costs upfront, explain timelines for Athens, Thessaloniki, and the islands, and help you choose the right van size from 5 m³ to 90 m³. Prefer savings and flexible dates? Go part‑load. Need privacy and speed? Choose a dedicated vehicle. Our packing specialists shield fragile pieces, while optional White Glove care places and assembles furniture exactly where you want it.
You set the destination, we orchestrate the rest. Explore routes and services here: Removals to Greece and compare options specifically for the UK corridor here: Best removals from UK to Greece. When you are ready, request a tailored quote and watch your move unfold with proactive ETAs and clear communication from the first mile to the last.
TL:DR
- Choose your service smartly: part‑load for value and flexible dates, dedicated for speed, privacy, and direct routing.
- Indicative timelines to plan: London → Athens 5–9 days, Birmingham → Thessaloniki 4–7, Manchester → Crete 7–12 depending on ferries and access.
- Control your budget: costs hinge on volume, access, route, season, and island ferries. Save with decluttering, midweek moves, and wider delivery windows.
- Pack with confidence: book professional Packing Services or go owner‑packed with our materials list; add White Glove for careful placement and assembly.
- Match van to volume: 5 m³, 10 m³, 15 m³, 30 m³, 90 m³ to fit studios, family homes, or whole households without overpaying.
- Paperwork made simple: check official guidance on gov.uk and gov.gr for visas, registrations, and residence steps.
- Stay in the loop: live GPS tracking and proactive ETAs at collection, borders, ferries, and pre‑delivery keep you fully informed.
- Book in minutes: request quote, confirm van size, choose add‑ons, share access rules, receive schedule and a tracking link.
Why VANonsite
Moving countries deserves a partner that is fast, careful, and utterly reliable. VANonsite blends European reach, precise planning, and human attention to detail so your move lands exactly where and when you need it.
What you gain with VANonsite
- Real visibility. Every load is GPS‑tracked from pickup to placement, with timely status messages you can trust.
- Human coordination. A single point of contact steers your schedule, shares proactive ETAs, and solves access changes on the fly.
- Specialist care. Fragile furniture, pianos, and designer pieces handled by trained teams, with optional White Glove Delivery for clean placement and assembly.
- Flexible formats. Pick budget‑friendly Part‑Load to Greece or reserve a dedicated vehicle for speed and privacy.
- Clear pricing. Transparent quotes that explain volumes, routes, ferry elements, and add‑ons, so you only pay for what you need.
- Right‑sized fleet. From 5 m³ to 90 m³, we match capacity and payload to your actual volume to avoid overpaying.
- Safety first. Clean vehicles with blankets, straps, corner guards, and floor protection keep homes and belongings pristine.
- European coverage. Cross‑continent coordination for mainland and island deliveries backed by local knowledge.
- Last Minute capability. Tight timelines handled without cutting corners, supported by disciplined scheduling and communication.
Built for the UK → Greece corridor
- Route mastery. Road via Italy with ferries to Patras or road via the Balkans when ferries are tight.
- Island expertise. Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Cyclades with shuttle options for narrow streets and heritage zones.
- Paperwork guidance. We point you to official resources on residence and registrations: gov.uk and gov.gr.
Services you can mix & match
- Furniture Removals
- White Glove Delivery
- Packing Services
- Home Removals
- Office Removals
- Storage (on request)
- Student Removals
- International Removals to Greece
- Part‑Load to Greece
Vehicle Sizes & Use Cases
Introduce each van size with capacity, payload, and ideal scenarios.
| VANonsite Category | Capacity | Max Payload | Best For | Example Loads |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moving Basic | 5 m³ | 300 kg | Student or micro move | 20–30 medium boxes, bedside table, small TV, compact appliances |
| Moving Medium | 10 m³ | 600 kg | Partial flat, student room | 40–60 boxes, desk, chairs, chest of drawers, small sofa |
| Moving Premium | 15 m³ | 1,000 kg | 1‑bed flat | 60–80 boxes, 2‑seat sofa, queen bed and frame, wardrobe, washer |
| Moving Premium Plus | 30 m³ | 3,500 kg | 2‑bed home | 100–140 boxes, 3‑seat sofa, dining set for 6, 2 beds, large wardrobe, appliances |
| Moving Full House XXL | 90 m³ | 20,000 kg | Whole house or villa | Entire household furniture, outdoor sets, gym equipment, multiple appliances |
Quick picking guide
- Studios and student rooms usually fit 5 to 10 m³.
- One bedroom flats tend to sit around 12 to 18 m³. Choose 15 m³ for comfort.
- Two bedroom homes often land near 25 to 35 m³. Pick 30 m³ unless you have oversized items.
- Full family homes with outdoor sets or a piano benefit from 90 m³ for a single dedicated run.
Volume self check in 3 steps
- Count large items per room and note any that need disassembly.
- Estimate boxes. A typical kitchen adds 15 to 25 medium boxes.
- Add a buffer of 10 to 15 percent for last minute items and packing materials.
Weight vs volume
- Stay within payload. Heavy books, tools, or appliances can hit weight limits before volume.
- Tell us about unusually heavy pieces so we right size the vehicle and crew.
Island last mile
- Narrow lanes and car free zones may need a shuttle van. We plan this in your schedule so delivery stays smooth.
Examples by home type
| Home type | Typical volume | Recommended VAN size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student studio | 5–8 m³ | Moving Basic 5 m³ | Part‑load friendly, fast load and unload |
| 1‑bed flat | 12–18 m³ | Moving Premium 15 m³ | Add Packing Service for glassware and TV |
| 2‑bed home | 25–35 m³ | Moving Premium Plus 30 m³ | Good balance of space and payload |
| 4‑bed family home | 65–90 m³ | Full House XXL 90 m³ | Single run with dedicated crew |
Costs: What Shapes Your Price
Clarity beats guesswork. Your price reflects what you move, where it goes, and how you want it handled. Here is how to control it.
Core cost drivers
- Volume and weight. The biggest lever. Declutter early to save.
- Access at both ends. Stairs, long carries, permits, or shuttles affect crew time.
- Route and distance. UK to mainland Greece vs islands with ferry legs.
- Season and dates. Summer peaks and holidays may be busier. Flexible windows help.
- Service level. Part‑load for value, dedicated for speed and privacy.
- Add ons. Packing, White Glove, storage, or custom crating.
Part‑load vs dedicated comparison
| Feature | Part‑load | Dedicated |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Longer window due to route consolidation | Shorter and predictable with direct routing |
| Privacy | Shared vehicle space, sealed and labelled consignments | One consignment per vehicle |
| Price | Most cost‑effective for smaller volumes | Higher total cost, premium experience |
| Handling | Minimal but potentially more touchpoints | Minimal handling, door to door |
| Best for | Flexible dates, budget control, studios to 1‑bed | Full homes, high value items, tight deadlines |
Budget strategies that work
- Declutter before you pack. Less volume equals a lighter invoice.
- Pick wider windows to unlock efficient routing.
- Bundle services like packing and assembly for better overall value.
- Go midweek when schedules allow. Roads and ferries are often smoother.
- Share the van with part‑load if dates are flexible: Part‑Load to Greece.
Example planning scenarios
| Scenario | Suggested service | Typical van | Timing window | Why it works |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio London → Athens | Part‑load | 5–10 m³ | 5–9 days | Lowest cost per m³ with flexible delivery |
| 1‑bed Birmingham → Thessaloniki | Dedicated | 15 m³ | 4–7 days | Predictable timing and privacy |
| 2‑bed Manchester → Crete | Dedicated with ferry | 30 m³ | 7–12 days | Enough space plus island leg coordination |
How our quotes are built
- Clear itemised lines for volume, route, access, and chosen services.
- Advice on permits and building bookings to avoid extra fees.
- Options for insurance explained in plain English.
Ready for your figure. Start here: Removals to Greece
Routes & Timelines from the UK
Moving from the UK to Greece involves a smart choice of corridor, then precise planning around ferries and city access. Pick the route that fits your dates, your destination, and your budget.
Main corridors
- Road via France and Italy plus ferry to Patras. A balanced choice for Athens and the Peloponnese. Travel through France and northern Italy, then sail from Ancona, Bari, or Brindisi to Patras. Continue by road to your final address.
- Road via the Balkans. Useful when ferry space is tight or when heading to northern Greece. The route typically passes Belgium or France, then Germany or Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, and North Macedonia into Thessaloniki or Athens.
- Island playbook. Mainland delivery to Athens or Thessaloniki followed by a domestic ferry for Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, or the Cyclades. We plan shuttle vehicles for old towns and narrow lanes.
Seasonality and buffers
- Peak times are June to early September and Easter. Add 1 to 3 days of buffer in these periods.
- Italian holiday weeks can affect ferry capacity. Early bookings help secure the best sailings.
Ferry essentials
- Vehicle height and length limits apply. We book compliant equipment and confirm port procedures.
- Weather or industrial action can affect schedules. We monitor updates and reroute if needed.
Typical windows from the UK
These are indicative planning ranges. Your final schedule reflects access, service level, and ferry slots.
| Corridor | Example origin | Typical window | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Road via Italy + ferry | London → Athens | 5 to 9 days | Balanced timing with an overnight sea leg |
| Road via Balkans | Birmingham → Thessaloniki | 4 to 7 days | Good option when ferries are constrained |
| Island route with domestic ferry | Manchester → Crete | 7 to 12 days | Mainland road plus ferry to Heraklion or Chania |
Helpful links:
Packing That Protects
Great packing is the cheapest insurance. It prevents bumps from becoming heartbreak and keeps unloading fast and tidy.
Two clear paths
- Professional Packing Service. We supply eco materials, wrap furniture, crate fragile pieces, and label every box for the right room. Ideal for busy schedules and premium items.
- Owner‑packed with our guidance. We share a materials list and a step by step plan. You pack at your pace. We load and protect for the road.
Your step by step plan
- Audit and measure. Walk each room and list large items. Measure sofas, wardrobes, and tables.
- Stage a clean zone. Lay floor protection. Keep tape, markers, and tools within reach.
- Build strong bases. Cross‑tape the bottom of every box. Add a paper cushion.
- Heaviest on the bottom. Books and plates first. Fill voids to stop movement.
- Seal and label. Mark room, contents, and fragility on two sides and the top.
Materials that work
- Double wall cartons in mixed sizes
- Dish barrels and picture boxes
- Bubble wrap, foam sheets, kraft paper
- Corner guards for glass and mirrors
- Mattress and sofa covers
- Stretch film to keep doors and drawers secure
- Zip bags for screws, taped to the furniture piece
Fragile item techniques
- Plates and bowls travel on edge with paper between each piece.
- Glasses and stemware get a paper sleeve, then bubble wrap. Fill the stem cavity and use divider boxes for sets.
- Wine bottles stand upright in bottle dividers. Pad the base and top to remove movement.
- Framed art and mirrors get corner protectors. Tape an X on the glass, wrap, and load upright edge‑on.
- TVs and monitors in original boxes if you have them, or a TV carton with foam spacers. Keep screens vertical.
- Desktop computers and electronics in anti‑static sleeves with cables bagged and labelled. Cushion all sides.
- Marble or glass tops are wrapped, then crated with orientation arrows. Never lay flat without support.
- Musical instruments travel in hard cases. Detune string instruments a half‑step. Remove mouthpieces from brass.
- Chandeliers are disassembled. Wrap each arm separately and mark hardware bags clearly.
- Lamps and shades in separate boxes. Do not wrap fabric shades in bubble directly; use tissue or kraft first.
Do not pack list
- Perishables and open food
- Flammables, paints, or solvents
- Pressurised containers (aerosols, propane, gas canisters)
- Fuel, charcoal, or firelighters
- Hazardous chemicals (bleach, acids, pesticides)
- Live plants and soil
- Cash, jewellery, passports, and critical documents (keep with you)
- Firearms, ammunition, or replicas
Label like a pro
| Code | Meaning | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| FRAG | Fragile contents | Handle high and avoid stacking |
| TOP | This side up | Put arrows on all four sides |
| ROOM‑KITCHEN | Destination room | Match the room names in your inventory |
| SET‑A | Part of a set | Note 1 of 3, 2 of 3, etc. |
| HEAVY | 25 kg+ two‑person lift | Keep near door on unload; use lifting straps |
| DO‑NOT‑STACK | No stacking allowed | For art, TVs, and crated items |
| LOAD‑LAST | Open first | Essentials: bedding, kettle, cleaning kit |
| OPEN‑FIRST | Priority unpack | Duplicate of above when needed for emphasis |
| TEMP | Temperature‑sensitive | Candles, records, instruments; do not leave in heat |
| QR‑INV | QR inventory label | Links to your digital item list |
| HAZ | Cleaning chemicals | Separate from food or fabrics |
Color‑coding tip
Use a simple palette for rooms: red kitchen, blue bathroom, green living room, yellow bedroom 1, purple bedroom 2. Put the color on two sides and the top for quick placement.
Need a hand? Explore our services:
Paperwork & Practicalities (with official links)
Getting the admin right keeps your move smooth. Rules change, so always verify the latest guidance on official portals and keep digital copies of everything.
Essentials at a glance
- Passports and ID. Ensure validity covers your planned stay.
- Residence and visas. Check eligibility, required proofs, and timelines.
- Housing proof. Tenancy, purchase contract, or host letter with contact details.
- Inventory and insurance. Itemised list with estimated values plus policy confirmation.
- Parking and access. Permits, lift bookings, loading bay reservations.
- Healthcare and tax numbers. Register after arrival where applicable.
UK citizens moving long term
- Start with UK guidance on visas and moving abroad: gov.uk.
- Review Greek residence permit steps and local registrations on gov.gr.
- Typical post‑arrival items may include a Greek tax number AFM and a healthcare number such as AMKA. Use gov.gr to locate the correct office and booking process.
- If driving, check licence validity and vehicle import rules on gov.uk and local registration info via gov.gr.
EU, EEA, Swiss citizens
- Moving to Greece usually involves lighter formalities. Verify registration rules and municipal procedures on gov.gr.
- Prepare ID, proof of address, and where relevant proof of work or study.
Families, pets, and vehicles
- School records and enrollment. Request transcripts and letters in advance. Confirm enrollment steps with local authorities on gov.gr.
- Pet travel. Check vaccinations, microchipping, and travel documents via gov.uk if departing the UK, then confirm entry rules for Greece on gov.gr.
- Car or motorbike. Verify insurance, green card or equivalent, and registration or re‑registration steps on gov.gr. Bring V5C or ownership proof from the UK.
Parking, permits, and building access
- Request temporary parking permissions where streets are controlled.
- Book lifts and loading bays with your building manager. Share time windows with our team.
- For old towns or car‑free zones, we plan a shuttle vehicle for the last mile.
Document checklist for your move day
| Item | Who issues it | Where to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Passport or national ID | UK Home Office or your home country | gov.uk or national authority |
| Residence or visa proof | Greek authorities | gov.gr |
| Housing proof | Landlord, notary, or agent | Lease, purchase deed, or host letter |
| Inventory and values | You, reviewed by us | Kept digitally and printed copy on move day |
| Insurance confirmation | Insurer or VANonsite issued docs | Policy schedule and terms |
| Parking or access permits | Local council or building mgmt | Council website or building office |
| School and medical records | Schools and clinics | Originals and scanned copies |
Useful internal links:
Insurance & Peace of Mind
Your belongings deserve protection that matches their true value. We explain options clearly, help you choose the right cover, and keep documentation tidy so any claim is simple to process.
Coverage options at a glance
| Cover type | What it protects | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard goods in transit | Physical loss or damage during loading, transport, and unloading | Most household moves | Set a realistic declared value to avoid underinsurance |
| Enhanced cover for high value items | Art, antiques, instruments, designer furniture | Single high value pieces | May require photos, condition notes, and custom packing or crating |
| Full value protection | The declared value of your entire shipment | Whole home moves and villas | Higher premium with broader protection across the inventory |
| Pairs and sets add on | One item in a matched set is damaged | Table sets, chairs, modular wardrobes | Allows repair or replacement that preserves the full set |
How to set your sum insured
- Build an itemised inventory with replacement values in Greece.
- Separate specialty items and attach photos, serials, or appraisals where available.
- Keep receipts where you have them and estimate fairly where you do not.
- Share the list with us so we can confirm packing methods and coverage fit.
Claims checklist
- Dated photos of valuable items before packing and on delivery.
- Proof of value such as receipts or valuations when available.
- The signed delivery note with any visible damage noted on arrival.
- Packing evidence if some boxes are owner packed.
- Prompt notification after discovery of loss or damage to meet time limits.
What is typically not covered
- Pre‑existing damage or normal wear and tear.
- Self packed boxes with inadequate packing where damage is packing related.
- Prohibited items and undeclared valuables.
- Losses reported outside policy time limits.
Need help choosing cover? We will outline options in plain language and match packing levels to your chosen protection.
FAQs
Is it hard to move to Greece from the UK?
Not when you plan smartly. The logistics are straightforward with a specialist mover. The admin depends on your status. UK nationals usually need the right to reside or a suitable visa. Always verify requirements on gov.uk and the Greek government portal gov.gr. We handle packing, transport, ferries, and access so your move feels simple, not stressful.
How much does it cost to move from the UK to Greece?
Prices reflect volume, access, route, seasonality, and service level. As planning guidance: small part‑load consignments sit in the lower four figures, a dedicated 15 m³ van for a one‑bed flat in the mid four figures, a two‑bed home in a 30 m³ van in the mid‑to‑high four figures, and whole‑house moves with a 90 m³ vehicle can reach the low five figures. For a precise figure, request a tailored quote here: Removals to Greece.
How much does it cost to ship from the UK to Greece?
If you are sending boxes only, parcel freight may be cheaper but slower and less hands‑on. For furniture and full home contents, road removals with ferry legs are the right fit. Part‑load is the most economical, dedicated is faster and private. Your quote will separate route, access, ferry, and packing elements so you see exactly what you are paying for.
Is it worth it moving to Greece?
Many people say yes. Sunshine, sea, and a calmer rhythm can boost wellbeing. Outside prime hotspots, living costs can be gentler than in the UK. On the other hand, plan for seasonality on islands and some extra admin at first. A short scouting trip and a clear moving plan help you land with confidence.
Is it cheaper to live in Greece than the UK?
Often, yes, especially outside the most touristic areas. Rents and daily costs in secondary cities and smaller towns are typically lower than in major UK cities. Prime Athens districts and popular islands can be higher. Use your own lifestyle as the benchmark and compare neighbourhoods before you commit.
Can I live in Greece with only English?
You can get by in Athens, tourist hubs, and many service settings. Daily life gets easier with basic Greek. Start with greetings, numbers, directions, and essentials for deliveries and utilities. Official forms are often in Greek, so you may need translation or help for admin. We recommend learning key phrases as you settle.
How much do removals from UK to Greece cost?
See the cost answer above for typical ranges. Your exact price depends on your inventory, addresses, dates, and whether you choose part‑load or dedicated. Start with a quick inventory and photos for a fast estimate: Best removals from UK to Greece.
How long does a UK to Greece move take?
Indicative windows: London to Athens 5–9 days, Birmingham to Thessaloniki 4–7 days, Manchester to Crete 7–12 days. Final timing depends on access, ferry slots, and whether you choose part‑load or dedicated.
Part‑load vs dedicated: which is best for me?
Part‑load is perfect when you want value and can be flexible with dates. Dedicated gives you speed, privacy, and direct routing. If you are unsure, we will size your inventory and offer both options side by side.
What documents do I need?
Requirements vary. Always check gov.uk and gov.gr for current rules on residence, registrations, pets, vehicles, and driving. On move day, keep passports, visas or residence proof, housing documents, inventory, insurance confirmation, and any parking permits with you.
Do you handle antiques, pianos, and art?
Yes. We provide specialist packing, custom crating, and careful handling, plus optional White Glove Delivery for precise placement.
Can you do last minute moves?
Often, yes. Our Last Minute Moving capability prioritises rapid scheduling without cutting corners. Share your dates and inventory; we will confirm the quickest viable plan.
Summary: Your UK to Greece Move, Simplified
Removals from UK to Greece can feel big, yet with the right plan it becomes refreshingly simple. This guide walked you through every moving piece: choosing part‑load for value or a dedicated van for speed, mapping the best corridor to Athens or Thessaloniki, and timing island ferries without stress. You learned how to match your home to the right vehicle size from 5 m³ to 90 m³, how professional packing and White Glove placement protect prized furniture, and why live GPS tracking and clear ETAs keep you calm from pickup to placement. We covered costs, paperwork with official resources on gov.uk and gov.gr, last‑mile access, and the insurance choices that safeguard what matters.
Key takeaways
- Pick service type to fit budget and timeline, then lock dates early.
- Choose the van size that mirrors your true volume to avoid overpaying.
- Plan corridors and ferries with buffers in peak season.
- Protect value with pro packing or precise owner‑packed methods.
- Keep admin tight with verified documents, permits, and insurance.
Ready to move? Start your tailored quote today: Removals to Greece or compare UK‑focused options here: Best removals from UK to Greece.
