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UK VAT free allowance on small value packages

  • Jan 13, 2017 | Richard Asquith

UK VAT free allowance on small value packages

The UK has increased the VAT-free threshold for small packages being imported into the country from outside of the EU. The maximum value of goods is now £39 – previously £34.  The new threshold was introduced on 1 January 2017.

As with all EU member states, the UK permits low-value consignment stock relief from duties and VAT for small packages. The level around Europe is approximately €20.

The EU plans to remove the relief as part of its VAT Action Plan. The system is vulnerable to manipulation, and gives importers an unfair tax subsidy over local, EU-based providers.


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Researching UK VAT legislation is the first step to understanding your VAT compliance needs. Avalara has a range of solutions that can help your business depending on where and how you trade. 

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VP Global Indirect Tax
Richard Asquith
VP Global Indirect Tax Richard Asquith
Richard Asquith is the former VP Global Indirect Tax at Avalara