Hi

to cut costs as much as possible we opted to use shippin as our method of transport for the items we brought to be deliverd.

They are now at the port, i have payed the bill they sent,

however i called the port up and they said i need to pay tax, send them some letter, ect.

Now we are currently unregisterd and imported around 2k worth. Would we normally have to be a registerd company?

They also said we have to pay VAT, must this be payed even though we are a small un-registerd busines?

any help, or advice on how to solve this situation we would be very gratful thanks

no you do not need to be a registered company to import items.

Everyone has to pay VAT upon import.

Contact a UK freight/forwarding agent, they will clear the goods and pay the taxes on your behalf (plus a small commission) for you. They will also arrange shipping to your door.

if i say im selling do i have to be registerd, as if i say there for personal use i doubt there belive it?

i sent my invoice and documents over, and will contact them again tomorrow.

Depending on what is declared and the value they may ask you to obtain a Pseudo VAT Number for this import if they feel it is not for personal use.

For example, if you have 40 cartons of PS3 Games, regardless what you say it will be classed as a commercial importation (unless you can prove otherwise!).

This is standard practice for larger quantitiy imports if you are not registered for VAT. This way the VAT/Tax Man (now they are all one ) can keep tabs on international traders.

In future it is worth paying a few $$$ more (approx 25%) for a door to door service such as UPS or DHL. Not only they will take care of customs for you they will deliver to your door from China/HK in 5 days.

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Last edited by greedyboy; 09-05-2007 at 04:15 PM.

What form do they need?

Should be fine being unregistered, you have up to 3 months after commencing business to register.

Originally Posted by worktillyoudie

What form do they need?

Should be fine being unregistered, you have up to 3 months after commencing business to register.

If they ask for it, they should email you an online application and you take care of the rest and deal with the VAT Man.

Regardless of the 3 month rule, this is something completely different. The VAT Man will, if asked, not release the goods without the correct records and documentation.

Alternatively, you may be fine and just go through the formalities/red tape and you stuff will clear in a few days.

It's just good to know your options.

Originally Posted by greedyboy

Regardless of the 3 month rule, this is something completely different. The VAT Man will, if asked, not release the goods without the correct records and documentation.

I was replying to Bigturk's concern about being unregistered as a business/soul trader.

Hi, I think the best way is to contact your local UK freight/forwarding agent. Hope this helps.