Transport to Iceland: What a snow chain sale reveals about successful logistics
Shipments to Iceland are among the most exciting challenges in the international logistics business. This story explains why and how an unusual sale of snow chains on a classifieds site reminded us of this very fact.
Who actually buys snow chains in May?
I asked myself this question a few weeks ago when I listed a pair of snow chains on a classifieds site. To be honest, my expectations were modest. The winter season was long over, and most people in May are thinking about summer holidays rather than snow and ice.
But that's precisely what made this encounter so interesting.
From "A to Z" to classified ads
Actually, the topic of buying used goods has been with me my whole life.
As a child, my father regularly browsed through the "A to Z" – the regional predecessor of classified ads. Whether it was model trains, garden tools, or remote-controlled cars: whenever we were looking for something, we studied the ads and then visited the sellers.
I learned early on that behind every purchase and every sale there is a story.
This enthusiasm has remained to this day. That's why many things I no longer need regularly end up on classifieds sites.
Just like snow chains.
The unusual buyer
In the middle of May, an interested party actually contacted them.
When he picked up the snow chains, we quickly got to talking. When I asked him why someone would buy snow chains at this time of year, he replied quite calmly:
"I always buy counter-cyclically."
The tire size was a perfect fit, so he went for it.
But the snow chains weren't intended for the next ski vacation.
His destination was Iceland.
Iceland instead of the Alps
The buyer is a passionate traveler to Iceland and has already travelled around the island several times with his own vehicle.
He told of journeys through fast-flowing rivers, of remote highland routes, and of landscapes that are virtually unparalleled in Europe. Of hot springs, lava fields, and the unique natural beauty for which Iceland is known worldwide.
I found his remark that he was even planning a beach holiday in Iceland in November particularly interesting.
Sounds unusual at first.
However, anyone who knows the importance of geothermal energy for Iceland quickly understands why. Natural geothermal heat is used there for energy supply and heating of buildings.
While others think of adventure, we think of logistics
While our conversation partner was talking about his travels, I eventually had to think about something else.
The logistical challenges that come with having an island in the middle of the North Atlantic.
Because while most people think of glaciers, volcanoes and spectacular landscapes when they think of Iceland, we deal with a completely different question on a daily basis:
How can goods be reliably transported to Iceland?
This is precisely where our perspective as a freight forwarding company begins.
Transport to Iceland: A special challenge for companies
Iceland is a fascinating country, but also a unique market from a logistical point of view.
Many everyday goods, as well as machinery, spare parts, building materials, merchandise and industrial products, need to be reliably transported to the island.
For transport to Iceland to run smoothly, more than just available cargo space is needed. Especially for regular shipments to Iceland, companies benefit from experienced contacts and well-established processes.
The following are crucial:
- professional transport planning
- reliable operating times
- the correct customs clearance
- complete documentation
- Experience with the specific requirements of the Icelandic market
- a realistic assessment of deadlines and urgency
Although Iceland is geographically part of Europe, it is not a member of the European Union. However, Iceland is part of the European Economic Area and a member of the EFTA. This results in close trade relations with the EU; nevertheless, customs formalities and correct documentation remain an important part of the process for shipments to Iceland.
Technical advice from our Iceland expert André
To turn a good idea into a reliable transport solution, practical experience is essential. At OCS Spedition GmbH, André is one of our specialists for transport to Iceland.
“Many companies initially focus on the actual transport. In practice, however, delays often arise due to missing documents, incomplete customs information, or overly short-term planning. Thorough preparation often saves a lot of time and effort.”
That's precisely why it's worthwhile to plan early and gather all the necessary information in advance. Further information about our services
Urgent timing for transports to Iceland
An important point that many German companies underestimate: Iceland transports do not always follow the same schedule as domestic German or Central European transports.
Ferry connections, weather conditions, customs processes and local procedures can affect the transit time.
In addition, there is a certain Scandinavian relaxed approach to deadlines. While German companies often expect very precise timeframes, realistic planning with sufficient lead time is particularly important for shipments to Iceland.
This does not mean that transport services are unreliable. Rather, it means that experience, good communication, and proactive planning are crucial.
OCS Spedition GmbH – Your partner for Iceland transport
For many years, OCS Spedition GmbH companies with their transport needs to Iceland. We organize customized logistics solutions for a wide variety of industries and goods. Our customers particularly appreciate the reliable planning of their transports to Iceland and our support with all customs and documentation issues.
Whether general cargo, groupage cargo, merchandise, machinery, spare parts or other commercial goods – every transport places its own demands on planning, documentation and customs clearance.
Thanks to our experience in Iceland transport, we know the processes, special features and requirements precisely and support our customers in getting their goods safely and reliably to their destination.
Conclusion: Behind every transport there is a story
It all actually started with a set of snow chains in May.
This resulted in an exciting conversation about Iceland, travel, and the fascination of an island that inspires people for very different reasons.
For some, Iceland is an adventure.
For others, it's a dream destination.
For us as a freight forwarding company, Iceland is above all one thing:
An exciting logistics market with special requirements and interesting transport projects.
And that's precisely why we keep coming back to this extraordinary island.
Are you looking for an experienced partner for transport to Iceland?
OCS Spedition GmbH supports companies in planning and executing transports to Iceland – from transport organization and customs clearance to the reliable delivery of your goods. Those who want to successfully organize transports to Iceland benefit from experience, sound planning, and a strong network.
Frequently asked questions about transport to Iceland
Is Iceland part of the European Union?
Iceland is geographically part of Europe, but is not a member of the European Union. For businesses, this means that customs formalities and the corresponding import documents must be taken into account when transporting goods to Iceland.
Is Iceland part of the European Economic Area (EEA)?
Yes. Iceland is a member of the European Economic Area (EEA) and the EFTA. This results in close economic ties with the European Union. However, the same conditions do not apply to the transport of goods to Iceland as within the EU single market.
Are there customs duties on goods shipped to Iceland?
This depends on the type of goods and their origin. Many industrial products benefit from tariff reductions or exemptions due to trade agreements between the EU and Iceland. However, this requires correct documentation and, if necessary, appropriate proof of origin.
What documents are required for transport to Iceland?
Generally, a commercial invoice, a packing list, and transport documents are required. Depending on the goods, additional documents such as certificates of origin or other import documents may be necessary. Checking these documents early saves time and avoids delays in customs clearance.
How important is customs clearance for shipments to Iceland?
Customs clearance is one of the most important aspects of successful shipping to Iceland. Incorrect or incomplete documents can lead to delays, additional costs, or inquiries from the authorities. Therefore, professional preparation is essential.
How long does transport to Iceland take?
The exact transit time depends on the pick-up location, mode of transport, ferry connection, and customs clearance. Unlike many intra-European transports, fixed ferry connections play a crucial role. Therefore, early planning is recommended.
Why should you plan sufficient lead time for shipments to Iceland?
Iceland is an island in the North Atlantic. Weather conditions, ferry schedules, and customs procedures can affect transit times. Companies that plan ahead benefit from greater flexibility and more reliable transport.
Is it true that appointments are sometimes viewed in a more relaxed manner in Iceland?
In our experience, Icelandic business partners are very reliable, but often more pragmatic than many German companies. While in Germany planning is often down to the minute, in Iceland, practical solutions and collaborative partnerships are frequently the priority. Open communication is therefore particularly important.
What goods are frequently transported to Iceland?
Typical goods include machinery, spare parts, technical components, building materials, merchandise, consumer goods, and industrial products. Due to its island location, Iceland relies on regular imports in many sectors.
What makes transport to Iceland so special?
Iceland combines modern European economic structures with the logistical challenges of a remote island nation. This very combination makes experience, careful planning, and sound customs expertise particularly valuable for transport to Iceland.
Which companies regularly require transport to Iceland?
Many companies in the mechanical engineering, industrial, trade, construction, and spare parts logistics sectors regularly use transport services to Iceland. Due to Iceland's island location, reliable supply chains are particularly important for many industries.
Why are we, as a freight forwarding company, so intensively involved with Iceland?
While many people associate Iceland with volcanoes, glaciers, and adventure, we primarily see it as a fascinating logistics market. The unique demands placed on transport planning, customs clearance, and supply chains make Iceland one of the most attractive destinations in the international transport sector.
