⚡ Quick Answer: How do I ship heavy machinery to Greece from the USA?
Heavy equipment such as excavators, backhoes, wheel loaders, telehandlers, forklifts and generators can be shipped to Greece by RORO, container, flat rack or breakbulk. Piraeus is the main gateway for Athens and southern Greece, while Thessaloniki is often better for northern projects. Machine size, operability and the final destination determine the best route.
USA → GREECE HEAVY MACHINERY SHIPPING
Greece’s mainland and island geography means machinery routing should be aligned with the final project area from the beginning. All TransportDepot coordinates heavy equipment from U.S. auctions, dealers and job sites to Greek ports, arranging inland pickup, export handling and ocean freight. Piraeus is a major gateway for Athens and southern Greece, while Thessaloniki can shorten inland delivery for northern projects. Excavators, loaders, telehandlers and industrial equipment may move by container, RORO, flat rack or breakbulk depending on size and condition.
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Heavy Machinery Shipping Calculator
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Greece Ports for Heavy Machinery
Greece offers major Mediterranean gateways with good access to the Balkans and domestic markets.
Port of Piraeus
Greece’s largest port and a major container and commercial gateway serving Athens and southern Greece.
Port of Thessaloniki
Key northern gateway serving Macedonia, northern Greece and Balkan-connected cargo.
Patras
Western Greece port with RORO connections and access toward central/western regions.
Greece Customs & Import Rules for Heavy Machinery
As an EU destination, imports generally require a customs declaration, correct tariff classification, customs value, importer/EORI details and payment of applicable import VAT and any duty. Depending on the machine, age, intended use and whether it will be operated on public roads or placed into service commercially, additional safety, emissions, conformity or registration requirements may apply. The importer and customs broker should confirm the current requirements before shipment.
How to Prepare Heavy Machinery for Shipping to Greece
- Confirm year, make, model, serial number, exact dimensions and operating weight.
- Clean the machine thoroughly and remove soil, plant matter, debris and excessive grease.
- Repair active oil, fuel, coolant or hydraulic leaks before terminal delivery.
- Secure buckets, forks, blades, booms and detachable accessories; list attachments separately when needed.
- For RORO, verify the machine starts, steers and brakes. Non-running or oversized equipment may require flat rack or breakbulk.
- Photograph the machine before pickup and before port handover.
Documents Required for Heavy Machinery Shipping to Greece
U.S. Export Side
- Commercial invoice or bill of sale
- Ownership/title evidence when applicable
- Year, make, model and serial number
- Dimensions, operating weight and condition
- Exporter and consignee information
- AES / EEI information when required
- Carrier and terminal forms
Greece Arrival Side
- Commercial invoice and ocean transport document
- Packing / equipment details
- Importer or customs-broker identification
- HS classification and customs declaration
- Proof of origin or other supporting documents when required
- Any technical, safety, registration or compliance documentation applicable to the machine
Types of Heavy Machinery We Ship to Greece
Excavators
Construction and infrastructure.
Backhoes
General site work.
Wheel Loaders
Aggregate handling.
Telehandlers
Construction.
Forklifts
Ports/logistics.
Generators
Island and project power.
Most Popular Heavy Machinery for Greece Projects
| Type | Brands / Models | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Excavators | CAT 320, Komatsu PC210 | Construction |
| Backhoes | JCB 3CX, CAT 420 | General works |
| Wheel Loaders | CAT 950, Volvo L90 | Aggregate |
| Telehandlers | Manitou, JCB | Construction |
| Forklifts | Toyota, Hyster | Logistics |
| Generators | Caterpillar, Cummins | Power |
Heavy Equipment Shipping Methods
When shipping heavy equipment, you can choose between RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off), container shipping, or breakbulk/flat rack options. The best method depends on the equipment type, size, weight, budget, and the level of protection or handling required during transit.
RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off)
Best for drivable machinery
- Drive-on, drive-off convenience
- CAT loaders, dump trucks, tractors
- Most cost-effective option
Container Shipping
Good for compact machinery
- Full container, maximum security
- Space for cars, machinery, or items
- Weather-protected and safe
Breakbulk / Flat Rack Shipping
Designed for oversized heavy equipment
- Suitable for large excavators and cranes
- Custom lifting and secure stowage
- Get full protection for your vehicle
Frequently Asked Questions About Shipping Heavy Machinery to Greece
What information is needed for a quote to Greece?
Send the year, make, model, serial number, exact length, width, height, operating weight, running condition, pickup ZIP code, destination and clear photos.
Can non-running machinery be shipped to Greece?
Yes. Non-running machinery may need towing, lifting, flat rack or breakbulk handling instead of standard RORO.
Which shipping method is best?
The best method depends on machine size, operating condition, port service and final destination. RORO, container, flat rack and breakbulk are all possible depending on the cargo profile.
Should import rules be checked before sailing?
Yes. Confirm customs eligibility, VAT/duties, registration and any machine-specific compliance requirements before the equipment leaves the USA.
Visit the Europe Heavy Machinery Shipping hub or return to our Heavy Machinery Shipping Services hub for worldwide machinery export options.
Ian Miriams serves as Project Cargo & Commercial Freight Coordinator with All TransportDepot Inc., an FMC-licensed and bonded NVOCC (License No. 021693). He supports commercial ocean freight, heavy machinery transport, vehicle shipping, container service, and project cargo movements, with attention to cargo dimensions, equipment condition, carrier requirements, terminal acceptance, documentation, and destination handling. All TransportDepot Inc. manages export logistics from the United States to destinations worldwide.