What is customs clearance?
In simple terms, customs clearance is the process through which customs authorities examine a product arriving from a non-EU country and calculate the taxes and duties that apply to it.
💸 How much does customs clearance cost?
This is the most common question — and also the most misunderstood one.
There is no single fixed price. The charges that may apply include:
1. VAT
VAT in Greece is 24% and is calculated on:
- the value of the product
- including shipping costs
If you have already paid VAT at checkout (for example through the IOSS system), you should not be charged VAT again.
(Some product categories may be subject to reduced VAT rates such as 13% or 6%.)
2. Customs duties
Customs duties usually apply:
- when the value of the shipment exceeds €150
- depending on the type of product
For example, clothing, electronics and spare parts all have different duty rates.
3. Customs clearance service fees
These are not government taxes, but service fees charged by:
- logistics or shipping agents
- warehouse operators
- customs brokers
These are legitimate service costs, but they are often confused with government taxes.
You can always request the official price lists of the companies involved, so you know in advance what charges may apply.
About APS
APS is a Greek customs brokerage and freight forwarding company based at Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos).
The company specializes in:
- import and export customs clearance
- freight forwarding
- e-commerce customs procedures
With ISO 9001 and AEO certifications and more than 40 years of experience, APS manages the customs clearance and international transportation of goods with reliability and expertise.
Trust the professionals at APS, stay properly informed and eliminate surprises.
APS Team
February 2026