Export VAT and tax.

The key UK export tax is export VAT on sales. Export VAT depends on whether you are selling within the EU (sometimes referred to as “dispatches” or “removals” rather than exports) or exporting to customers in a non-EU country.

Although no other export taxes are charged in the UK, you may have to deal with local taxes overseas, such as any import taxes.

EU sales: exports to VAT-registered customers

Export VAT within the EU depends on whether your customer is registered for VAT or not.

If you are selling to a VAT-registered customer, you should get their VAT number. You can then zero-rate the sale, so that no export VAT needs to be added. You need to retain proof that the goods have left the UK, and a copy of the VAT invoice you have issued, for your VAT records.

In your VAT return you must give details of each VAT-registered customer and the value of goods supplied on a separate EC Sales List. Larger exporters must also provide details of their EU Sales on a separate “Intrastat” declaration each month.

EU sales: exports to non-VAT registered customers

If the customer is not VAT-registered, you charge export VAT at the normal UK VAT rate for those goods. Again, you issue a VAT invoice showing details of the export VAT charged.

You do not need to complete an EC Sales List for sales to non-VAT registered customers, but the value of these sales is included in the Intrastat returns required from larger exporters.

However, export VAT is treated differently if the total value of your sales to non-VAT registered customers in any individual EU country during a calendar year exceeds that country’s VAT distance selling threshold. These VAT thresholds vary but are typically around €35,000.

If so, you must register and account for VAT in that country, charging the local rate of VAT rather than UK export VAT.

Export VAT: sales outside the EU

No export VAT is charged on sales to customers outside the EU. You can zero-rate these exports, so long as you retain proof that the goods have been exported.

This also applies to goods exported via another EU country but ultimately to a non-EU customer. To qualify for zero-rating rather than charging export VAT, your records must include details of the final export outside the EU.

Other export taxes

Other export taxes may be payable overseas, depending on the circumstances.

For sales outside the EU, you or your customer may need to pay import duty to clear your goods through local customs.

If you have an overseas presence (eg a sales office), you may also find that you are subject to local business taxes. You should take advice on international tax planning.

Special tax rules and procedures apply if you deal in excise goods such as alcohol and tobacco products.

Topics: Taxation
Export Action Plan