It is not surprising why Cyprus is popular for British Expats – a year round warm climate, stunning beaches and coastline and a fascinating culture are all aspects that the Mediterranean Island can offer new residents.Cyprus is an interesting place for expats to live, whilst enjoying Western European culture, you can also experience Asian and African influences, all adding to the unique character of the island.
Shipping to Cyprus
If you are planning a removal to Cyprus, you have several options with regards to shipping your personal and household effects.
Sea Freight – Shared Container (Groupage) or Sole Use Container (Full Container Load – FCL)
Shipping to Cyprus via sea freight is the most common method of transporting your household items. It is generally more economical then shipping via air freight if you have furniture and other larger items to ship. A sole use container means that you will have sole access to a 20ft, 40ft or 40ft high cube container. A shared container is useful for smaller shipments, a part house for example. In this case, you are charged on a volume basis (cuft) for the amount of space your shipment uses in the container.
Air Freight
Air freight shipping is another service which we can offer. The main benefit of this type of service is a shorter transit time.
Your International Consultant will be able to advise with regards to which option/s are best for you during the quotation stage. You may require a combination of different services e.g. a shared container shipment and a small air freight shipment.
Customs Requirements for Shipping to Cyprus
Shipments originating from EU member countries
Shipments are inspected at random.
Regulations regarding importing food in your shipment: dry and canned food only.
Up to 12 sealed bottles are allowed (applicable to sole use containers only).
Up to 20 open alcohol bottles are allowed (applicable to sole use containers only).
New items (i.e. owned and used for less than six months) are dutiable.
Shipments originating from non-EU member countries
All shipments from non-EU countries are inspected by Customs officials.
Regulations regarding importing food in your shipment: permit required from the Ministry of Health.
Alcohol restrictions: same as above for EU member countries.
New items (i.e. owned and used for less than six months) are dutiable.
For diplomatic shipments, please contact us for advice.
Shipping a car, bike or boat to Cyprus
All persons shipping a car, bike, or boat to Cyprus must attend Customs in Limassol.
International Students
Students returning home from a period of studying abroad will be charged tax and duty for importing new and used personal effects, the amount charged will depend on the items being imported.
Please note that customs regulations can change on a regular basis. Please contact us if you require a full Customs Guide to Cyprus.