TL:DR
A fast snapshot of your Ireland to Greece move: what to prepare, what it costs, how long it takes, and which van size to choose, all with real-time GPS tracking and careful handling by VANonsite.
- EU to EU move. No customs on household goods between Ireland and Greece.
- Paperwork highlights: Greek AFM and AMKA, EU residence registration if staying over 3 months, plus Irish tax wrap‑up.
- Pricing drivers: volume, access, packing level, ferries, timing. Save by decluttering and picking the right vehicle size.
- Vehicle range: from 5 m³ to 90 m³. GPS tracking for every load.
- Services on tap: Packing Service, White Glove Delivery, Storage, and Last Minute Moving.
- Route and timing: direct road delivery with realistic ETAs and proactive updates.
Moving to Greece from Ireland is a bold life upgrade, but it does not have to be chaotic. Picture sunlit mornings in Athens or a breezy terrace on Crete, while a careful team handles the heavy lifting, the timings, and the delicate pieces you love. In this guide you will get exact steps, a realistic timeline, and pro packing tips. With VANonsite your belongings travel securely and visibly, with real‑time GPS tracking from door to door.
Plan your Greece move with VANonsite
Why Greece is calling to move here from Ireland
Greece blends bright Mediterranean light with everyday ease. Winters are milder than in Ireland, summers stretch long, and the pace invites you to slow down and savor life outdoors. Healthcare access improves once you obtain AMKA, while dependable internet and growing co-working hubs make Athens, Thessaloniki, and Crete friendly to remote workers. Whether you dream of island calm or a lively mainland base, VANonsite gets you there with speed, transparency, and genuine care. Fragile art or heirlooms can travel with our White Glove Delivery, and if plans shift, our Last Minute Moving slots help you move without stress.
- Popular landing spots: Athens, Thessaloniki, Crete, Corfu, Rhodes, Peloponnese
- Typical reasons to move: remote work, retirement, Erasmus and student life, family reunions, EU mobility
Helpful services for your Greece relocation:
- Home Removals for full household moves
- Furniture Removals for single items and designer pieces
- Packing Service to protect fragile or high-value goods
- White Glove Delivery for antiques, instruments, and art
- Office Removals for hybrid teams and SMEs
- Student Removals for Erasmus terms and graduate moves
Your moving timeline
Great moves start with a clear rhythm. Use this countdown to stay calm, choose the right van size, and keep paperwork simple. VANonsite coordinates access, parking, ferries, and timing so the journey feels smooth from the first box to the final placement.
30+ days before departure
- Choose your move date and route. Mainland or island transfer.
- Book survey and quote with VANonsite. Priority slots available for Last Minute Moving.
- Decide storage vs direct delivery.
- Start decluttering. Photograph valuables.
- Pro tip: share photos or a short inventory so we can match you with the safest vehicle size and the fastest route.
21 days out
- Reserve the right vehicle size. Confirm access at both addresses.
- Order packing materials or book our full Packing Service.
- Gather required documents. See Paperwork section below.
- Pro tip: ask building managers about lift dimensions and loading areas, then send details to your coordinator.
10 days out
- Pack room by room. Label in English and Greek where useful.
- Separate hand-carry essentials.
- Share building restrictions, ferry access, and parking rules with your move coordinator.
- Pro tip: create a first-night box with bedding, chargers, toiletries, and basic cookware.
3 days out
- Final inventory and photos.
- Confirm ETA windows and GPS tracking link.
- Prepare cashless payments and delivery contact in Greece.
- Pro tip: keep passports, contracts, and small electronics in your personal hand-carry bag.
Moving day
- Meet the crew. Protect flooring. Walkthrough.
- VANonsite loads, secures, and activates GPS tracking.
- You receive live updates en route.
- Pro tip: do a last sweep of shelves, wardrobes, and the fridge before handing over keys.
Delivery day in Greece
- Pre-call on approach.
- Unload, place, assemble key furniture.
- White Glove option for art, instruments, antiques.
- Pro tip: guide the crew room by room so items land exactly where you want them.
Paperwork and registrations
Moving within the EU keeps things simple. Household goods travel customs free between Ireland and Greece. You still need a few registrations to unlock everyday life. Follow the steps below and use only official links when you apply.
AFM tax number in Greece
Your AFM is your Greek tax ID. You will use it for renting a home, opening utilities, and many services.
How to apply
- Prepare a valid passport or national ID, proof of address, and contact details.
- Apply online or in person via gov.gr and AADE. In some cases you may be asked to provide a Greek tax representative if you are not yet resident.
- Keep digital scans of all pages and the receipt.
Official pages:
- AFM application in English: https://www.gov.gr/en/upourgeia/oloi-foreis/anexartete-arkhe-demosion-esodon-aade/apodose-arithmou-phorologikou-metroou-aphm-kai-kleidarithmou-se-phusiko-prosopo
- AFM info in Greek: https://www.gov.gr/arxes/anexartete-arkhe-demosion-esodon-aade/anexartete-arkhe-demosion-esodon-aade/apodose-arithmou-phorologikou-metroou-aphm-kai-kleidarithmou-se-phusiko-prosopo
AMKA social security number
AMKA connects you to healthcare and employment systems.
How to apply
- Bring ID, proof of birth date, and proof of address.
- Apply through the official AMKA service or follow the ministry guidance.
- Keep your AMKA number handy for e-prescriptions and clinic visits.
Official pages:
- Ministry overview: https://ypergasias.gov.gr/en/social-security/insured-persons/social-security-registration-number-amka/
- AMKA portal: https://www.amka.gr/index_en.html
EU residence registration in Greece
If you plan to stay longer than 3 months, register your residence as an EU citizen.
Where to check requirements
- EU guidance: https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/residence/documents-formalities/registering-residence/index_en.htm
- Greek service page: https://en.mitos.gov.gr/index.php/%CE%94%CE%94%3ACertificate_of_registration_for_Union_citizens_residing_in_Greece_as_family_members_of_citizens_of_the_European_Union
Leaving Ireland: taxes and notifications
Close out your Irish admin to avoid surprises.
- Irish tax when leaving. Check tax residency, credits, and possible refunds:
- Change of address notifications. Forward mail and update departments:
- Government guidance: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-foreign-affairs/services/changing-your-address/
Driving in Greece with an EU licence
EU licences are generally valid in Greece. Always confirm recognition and renewal windows on gov.gr before you drive.
Tip: Bring multiple copies of IDs, a recent utility bill, and a Greek address proof if available. Keep digital backups in a secure cloud folder.
Document checklist at a glance
Use this quick table to keep momentum. Pack originals and digital copies.
| Document | Who needs it | Where to get it | When to do it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passport or national ID | Everyone | Irish Passport Office or your existing ID | 30+ days before departure |
| AFM tax number | Adults working, renting, or opening utilities | AADE via gov.gr | As soon as you have a Greek address plan |
| AMKA social security | Anyone using healthcare or working | AMKA portal or as directed by the Ministry | Within first weeks in Greece |
| EU residence registration | EU citizens staying over 3 months | Local authority per EU guidance | Within 90 days of arrival |
| Irish tax wrap up | Anyone leaving Ireland | Irish Revenue | Before or just after departure |
| Driving licence check | Drivers | gov.gr info hub | Before driving in Greece |
Costs that really matter
A great price is one you understand. Your final quote reflects the space your goods take, the effort at both addresses, the route, and any special care. Transparency matters, so here is what changes the number and how to keep control without cutting corners.
What drives the price
- Distance and access at both addresses. Long carries or tight staircases add crew time.
- Volume and weight. Right-sizing your vehicle avoids paying for air.
- Packing complexity. Glass, art, and instruments need specialist protection.
- Ferries and local access on islands. Seasonal schedules can influence timing.
- Delivery speed and storage. Direct runs are faster. Storage adds handling but buys flexibility.
Request an exact price: Instant quote for removals to Greece
How VANonsite builds your quote
- We learn your inventory photo or checklist.
- We match the safest vehicle size and crew profile.
- We confirm access details, parking, and any ferry leg.
- We add optional services you choose like Packing Service or White Glove Delivery.
- You receive a clear quote you can track alongside your load with GPS.
Volume estimator cheat sheet
Not sure about cubic meters. Use this practical guide before your survey.
| Items | Rough volume |
|---|---|
| 10 medium boxes | 1.5 m³ |
| 1 two‑seat sofa | 1.5 to 2 m³ |
| Double mattress and frame | 1.2 to 1.8 m³ |
| Dining table with 4 chairs | 2 to 3 m³ |
| Fridge freezer | 1 to 1.5 m³ |
Cost saving ideas that keep quality high
- Declutter early and donate what you will not need.
- Reserve parking bays near entrances to reduce carry distance.
- Let us pack only what is fragile and high value.
- Be flexible by a couple of days when possible.
- Share photos of tricky items so we can plan protection in advance.
Sample pricing breakdown template
Use this table structure with live quote data when publishing.
| Cost driver | What it means | How to reduce it |
|---|---|---|
| Volume in m³ | Total space your items occupy | Declutter, pick the right vehicle size |
| Access | Stairs, elevators, parking distance | Reserve parking, tell us about lift sizes |
| Packing | DIY vs professional packing | Book Packing Service for fragile items only |
| Timing | Peak season, weekends, last minute | Be flexible by a few days |
| Destination | Mainland vs island ferries | Consolidate deliveries where possible |
Vehicle sizes and when to choose which
VANonsite offers modern, secure vehicles. You also get GPS tracking for peace of mind. Choosing the right size keeps your goods safer and your quote sharper. Use the table, then see real examples below.
| Option | Approx. capacity | Max load | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moving Basic | 5 m³ | 300 kg | Studio essentials, student moves, urgent boxes |
| Moving Medium | 10 m³ | 600 kg | One bedroom’s worth, small furniture set |
| Moving Premium | 15 m³ | 1000 kg | 1–2 bedroom apartment, bulky items |
| Moving Premium Plus | 30 m³ | 3500 kg | 2–3 bedroom home, office moves |
| Moving Full House XXL | 90 m³ | 20000 kg | Large family home, villa, multi‑stop deliveries |
What typically fits in each size
- 5 m³ Basic: 15 to 25 boxes, a bike, flat screen up to 55 inches, and small decor.
- 10 m³ Medium: 30 to 45 boxes, armchair, compact desk, chest of drawers, small appliances.
- 15 m³ Premium: 45 to 70 boxes, two-seat sofa, queen bed and frame, dining set for four, wardrobes.
- 30 m³ Premium Plus: 70 to 120 boxes, three-seat sofa, two beds, large appliances, outdoor gear.
- 90 m³ Full House XXL: Whole-house contents, large wardrobes, multiple beds, pianos or gym equipment with White Glove care.
Quick rule of thumb
- Studio or student room: 5 to 10 m³.
- 1 to 2 bedroom flat: 15 m³.
- 2 to 3 bedroom home: 30 m³.
- 4+ bedrooms or villa with garage: 90 m³.
Micro-scenarios from Ireland to Greece
- Student Dublin to Athens, hand luggage plus essentials
- Inventory: 20 boxes, bike, monitor.
- Fit: Moving Basic 5 m³.
- Tip: Book Student Removals for flexible pickup windows.
- Couple from Cork to Thessaloniki, 1 bed apartment
- Inventory: 55 boxes, sofa, bed, table, two wardrobes, washer.
- Fit: Moving Premium 15 m³.
- Tip: Add Packing Service only for kitchen and glass to save time.
- Family Galway to Crete, 3 bed semi with island ferry leg
- Inventory: 110 boxes, two sofas, three beds, appliances, outdoor furniture.
- Fit: Moving Premium Plus 30 m³ or split loads if access is tight.
- Tip: Share ferry constraints early so we can plan the most reliable crossing.
- Small office Limerick to Athens
- Inventory: 12 desks, 12 chairs, 8 monitors, server cabinet, archive boxes.
- Fit: Moving Premium Plus 30 m³.
- Tip: Use Office Removals with evening delivery to reduce downtime.
Access checklist that protects your quote
- Measure doorways, lifts, and stair turns at both addresses.
- Reserve parking near entrances. Ask for a temporary permit if needed.
- Tell us about narrow lanes or height limits, especially on islands.
- Share photos or a short video walk-through for a perfect vehicle match.
Need help choosing? Share photos or a list. We will recommend the safest fit and the fastest route.
Packing that protects and impresses
Great packing protects memories, not just objects. It saves time on delivery day and keeps your quote lean. Choose full service or mix and match with DIY.
If we pack for you
- Custom crating for art and instruments
- Double‑walled cartons and eco padding
- Inventory and fragile labels
- Optional White Glove Delivery for antiques and designer pieces
If you pack yourself
- Use small boxes for books
- Wrap plates vertically
- Fill gaps to stop shifting
- Mark room and priority on two sides
- Seal with quality tape and reinforce the base
Smart labeling system
- Write the room and a short item group on two sides.
- Add a priority code: 1 first night, 2 first week, 3 later.
- Number boxes per room to track them on your inventory.
Box types made simple
| Box type | Use for | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Small 35 to 40 cm | Books, tools, dense items | Prevents overloading and crushed bases |
| Medium 45 to 55 cm | General household, linens | Easy to stack and carry |
| Tall wardrobe | Hanging clothes | Arrive crease free, fast to unpack |
| Dish barrel | Plates, glasses | Double walls reduce breakage |
DIY mistakes to avoid
- Overfilling large boxes with books. Use small boxes instead.
- Leaving empty space inside boxes. Fill gaps with padding.
- Skipping corner protectors on framed art.
- Packing detergents with textiles. Keep chemicals separate and sealed.
Eco friendly options
- Reuse sturdy cartons and choose paper padding over plastic where possible.
- Ask for reusable wardrobe boxes and crates for a cleaner, circular move.
Short on time. Book our Packing Service for the kitchen, glass, and art only. You stay in control while we protect the fragile pieces.
On the road to Greece
Here is how the journey unfolds from first mile to final placement. We keep you informed and in control, without the stress.
- Direct road transport with experienced drivers.
- GPS tracking link shared at pickup.
- Regular ETA updates and transparent communication.
- Trained crews at delivery for stairs, tight turns, and old‑town lanes.
Route overview at a glance
| Leg | Typical path | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Ireland to mainland Europe | Ferry to France or Spain, onward by road | Smooth transit, compliance with rest rules, secure overnight parking |
| Across Europe to Greece | Motorway corridors through Central Europe or the Balkans | Predictable ETAs, proactive update calls or messages |
| Island connection if needed | Ferry to Crete, Corfu, Rhodes or others | Seasonal timetables. We secure the earliest reliable crossing |
Note: Timeframes depend on volume, access, weather, and ferries. Your coordinator confirms the precise window on booking.
Daily communication routine
- Morning update with planned route and ETA window.
- Mid‑journey checkpoint and any routing changes.
- Pre‑arrival call 30 to 60 minutes before reaching your address.
Protection and compliance you can count on
- Loads secured with professional strapping and breathable wraps.
- No transhipment unless you request it. Single‑vehicle service available.
- Driver rest schedules observed for safety and reliability.
- Optional extra cover available for high‑value items. Ask for details when you book.
What we need from you before delivery
- Confirm parking or arrange a temporary permit near the entrance.
- Share lift dimensions and stair details. Photos help.
- Tell us about gate codes, concierge rules, or quiet hours.
Island deliveries: We coordinate ferries and local access. Tell us about seasonal restrictions and building rules. We plan buffer time around sailings, arrange last‑mile access on narrow streets, and keep you updated if schedules shift.
Delivery day playbook
- Pre‑call on approach and parking setup.
- Walkthrough and placement plan by room.
- Assembly of key items like beds and tables.
- Final sweep, photo confirmation for fragile pieces, and sign‑off.
Moving with kids, pets, or a home office
Kids
- Pack a comfort bag with snacks, water, favorite toy, and nightlight.
- Keep school records and vaccination cards accessible.
- Set up the child’s room first. Familiar bedding calms first nights.
- Choose one small box of treasures they unpack themselves.
Pets
- Check microchip and EU Pet Passport. Rabies vaccination should be current. Guidance here: European Union pet travel overview at europa.eu. Irish advice at gov.ie.
- Travel carriers must be well‑ventilated and labeled. Include water and an absorbent pad.
- Plan comfort breaks on long routes. Most vets do not recommend sedation. Ask yours.
- Keep pet documents in your hand‑carry, not in the moving van.
Home office
- Back up files to two locations and enable encryption on laptops and drives.
- Photograph cable layouts behind the desk for fast reassembly.
- Pack monitors upright with corner protectors. Label each cable to its device.
- Keep essential tech in personal carry: laptop, chargers, SIMs, authentication keys.
- For sensitive gear, request chain‑of‑custody notes and a sealed box.
Storage is available if your Greek home is not ready on arrival. Short and long term options keep your timeline flexible.
Frequently asked questions – FAQs
How long does road delivery from Ireland to Greece take?
Most mainland deliveries arrive in a few days. Larger homes or tricky access can take a little longer. Islands may add ferry time. We confirm your window on booking and you can watch progress with GPS tracking.
What is the typical timeline by destination?
- Mainland Athens or Thessaloniki: direct road delivery, usually within a week.
- Crete, Corfu, Rhodes and other islands: allow extra time for ferries and local access.
- Multi‑stop or storage plans: timing agreed with your coordinator.
Do I pay customs when moving household goods to Greece from Ireland?
No. Both countries are in the EU for goods movement, so household moves are customs free. You may still need to complete local registrations in Greece such as AFM and AMKA and, if staying over 3 months, residence registration. Use official sources only: AFM, AMKA, EU residence, Irish Revenue when leaving.
How early should I book?
Two to four weeks is ideal. If your dates are fixed or you plan an island delivery in summer, book sooner. If plans change, ask about Last Minute Moving.
Can you move on short notice?
Yes. VANonsite offers Last Minute Moving and unlocks priority slots whenever possible. Tell us your must‑arrive date and we will map the fastest secure route.
Do you provide packing?
Yes. Choose full packing or fragile‑only. Our Packing Service includes professional materials, inventory labels, and custom crating for art or instruments.
What items are restricted or not recommended?
We cannot carry hazardous materials like gas cylinders, flammables, wet paint, or loose solvents. Perishables and open liquids are discouraged. Ask your coordinator if you are unsure.
Do you handle fragile or luxury items?
Yes. Our White Glove Delivery adds specialist packing, soft handling, and precise placement for antiques, artwork, and high‑value pieces.
Can you disassemble and reassemble furniture?
Yes, for most standard items. Built‑ins and complex systems may need a specialist. Share photos for guidance.
How do parking and access affect my quote?
Long carries, stairs, or tight turns add time. Reserve parking near entrances and share lift sizes, gate codes, or quiet hours so we can plan the right crew and vehicle.
Is my load covered?
Your goods travel with standard cover, and extra protection is available for high‑value items. Ask for details with your quote so we can tailor cover to your inventory.
How can I pick the right vehicle size?
Use the guide in this article or send a quick inventory. We will recommend the safest fit. Options range from 5 m³ to 90 m³ with GPS tracking on every load.
Do you offer storage?
Yes. Short and long term storage is available, ideal when your new home is not ready. We can combine storage with staged delivery.
How do payments and scheduling work?
Secure your date with a deposit. The balance is typically due before delivery. If your plans change, contact us early so we can adjust your slot.
Where do I start?
Get a fast, transparent quote and a clear timeline here: Removals to Greece.
Summary
Moving to Greece from Ireland is simple inside the EU and even smoother with a clear plan. In a nutshell, you will prepare a short set of documents, choose the right vehicle size, decide on packing support, and follow a realistic countdown that keeps stress low. Costs hinge on volume, access, timing, and any island ferries, and you can control them by decluttering, reserving parking, and sharing photos for the perfect vehicle match. On the road you get live GPS tracking, proactive ETA updates, and careful crews who place and assemble key furniture at delivery.
Because every move is personal, we tailor the route, crew, and vehicle to your inventory and deadlines. Students and compact flats usually fit in 5 to 15 m³, family homes and offices travel best in 30 m³, and large villas call for 90 m³ with White Glove care for heirlooms and art. When keys are delayed, secure storage keeps your timeline flexible. Kids, pets, and home‑office gear travel smoothly when you use the checklists in this guide.
Your next step is easy. Share an inventory or quick photos, tell us your must‑arrive date, and we will map the safest plan with a transparent price you can trust.
