Despite Poland's Baltic coastline, the major ports of Gdansk and Gdynia are poorly connected to many of the major urban cities in the centre and in the south of the country. As a result, shipping can often take longer than expected.
Still, whether shipping a container or a car to Poland, it generally takes three to four weeks for goods to arrive.
Costs vary depending on the size of the container booked, and it's recommended that expats procure quotes from a number of different service providers in order to find the best deal.
Customs clearance for Poland
As a member of the EU, Poland is part of a greater customs union, which means that goods and items shipped to Poland from within the EU by EU citizens are duty free. Most used and personal items are also duty free.
If expats are using more than one medium of shipping (i.e. air and sea), all goods must be declared at the initial point of entry.
The paperwork required for customs clearance in Poland can be complicated, but shipping agents generally facilitate this process.
Shipping pets to Poland
Shipping pets to Poland is a straightforward process. Animals must have a microchip that complies with ISO standards, and dogs and cats must have the appropriate vaccinations.
A veterinarian must issue an EU Health Certificate (Form EC#998) no more than four months prior to travel, and an International Health Certificate must be issued within 10 days of departure.
Are you an expat living in Poland?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Poland. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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