International VAT Services for UK Businesses Trading Globally
Cross-border trade brings VAT obligations that domestic-only businesses never face. ABM Chartered Accountants handles the international VAT rules that apply to your imports, exports, and overseas services, keeping you compliant across every jurisdiction you trade in.
Cross-Border VAT Handled With Confidence
Since Brexit, every UK business that trades internationally faces a changed VAT landscape. Imports now attract import VAT at the border, exports need proper documentation to support zero-rating, and services bought from overseas suppliers require reverse charge accounting. Getting any of these wrong risks penalties, lost input tax, or double taxation.
Our ICAEW and ACCA qualified accountants advise on every aspect of international VAT, from place of supply rules and postponed VAT accounting to overseas registration requirements and customs declarations. Whether you import goods, export products, or supply services across borders, we make sure the VAT treatment is correct.
What Our International VAT Service Covers
From managing import VAT to advising on overseas registrations, here is how ABM Chartered Accountants supports UK businesses with the VAT side of international trade.
Import VAT
Managing import VAT on goods entering the UK, including postponed VAT accounting on your returns.
Export Zero-Rating
Applying the correct VAT treatment to your exports with proper documentation to support zero-rating.
Reverse Charge
Accounting for the reverse charge on services received from overseas suppliers in your VAT return.
Place of Supply
Determining where your goods or services are supplied for VAT purposes under UK and global rules.
Overseas Registration
Advising on whether your business needs to register for VAT in other countries and managing it.
Customs Duty Support
Guidance on customs declarations, EORI numbers, tariff classification, and duty relief on imports.
Trade Internationally Without the VAT Headaches
International VAT errors are expensive. Incorrectly zero-rating an export means you owe HMRC the full 20 percent. Failing to apply the reverse charge means missing a compliance obligation. And not using postponed VAT accounting on imports ties up cash unnecessarily at the border. ABM Chartered Accountants prevents all of these mistakes.
With the right advice, international VAT becomes manageable. You reclaim what you are entitled to, you charge the correct rate on every transaction, and your VAT returns reflect your cross-border activity accurately. That gives you the confidence to trade globally without worrying about whether your VAT is right.
International VAT Support for UK Businesses Trading Worldwide
Based in Canary Wharf, London, ABM Chartered Accountants provides international VAT services to UK businesses that import, export, or supply services across borders. We cover every jurisdiction you trade in.
International VAT Across Every Trading Sector
We handle international VAT for businesses in manufacturing, e-commerce, technology, wholesale, professional services, logistics, and retail. Whatever you trade and wherever you trade it, our team ensures your VAT is correct.
Why Businesses Choose ABM for International VAT
Chartered Cross-Border Expertise
ICAEW and ACCA qualified with international VAT knowledge.
Post-Brexit Rules Covered
Import, export, and reverse charge rules all handled.
Every Jurisdiction Managed
UK, EU, and worldwide VAT obligations kept compliant.
How We Work
Initial Consultation
Set Up and Onboard
Ongoing Support
We provide regular reviews and proactive advice to keep your finances optimised and HMRC-compliant.
Get in Touch Today
Whether you need help with your tax return, payroll, VAT, or business advisory, our qualified UK accountants are ready to provide clear, practical guidance for your specific needs.
Book a Consultation
Fill in the form below and one of our expert accountants will contact you promptly to discuss your accounting and tax requirements.
Our Global Clients
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to the international VAT questions we hear most often. Contact our team for tailored guidance.
What is postponed VAT accounting?
Postponed VAT accounting lets you account for import VAT on your VAT return instead of paying it at the border when goods enter the UK. You declare the VAT as output tax and reclaim it as input tax on the same return, making it cash-flow neutral.
Do I need to charge VAT on exports?
Exports of goods from the UK are generally zero-rated, meaning you charge VAT at zero percent. However, you must hold proper evidence that the goods have left the UK. Without that documentation, HMRC can treat the sale as a standard-rated domestic supply.
What is the reverse charge for overseas services?
When you buy services from a supplier based outside the UK, you must account for VAT yourself under the reverse charge. You declare the VAT as output tax on your return and, if entitled, reclaim it as input tax on the same return.
Do I need to register for VAT in other countries?
It depends on where your goods are located at the point of sale and whether you supply services to consumers in other countries. ABM Chartered Accountants reviews your trading activity and advises on where overseas VAT registration may be required.
What is an EORI number?
An EORI number is an Economic Operator Registration and Identification number required for any business that imports or exports goods to or from the UK. You cannot clear goods through customs without one. ABM Chartered Accountants helps you apply and manage the process.
How much do your international VAT services cost?
Fees depend on the complexity of your cross-border activity and the number of jurisdictions involved. We offer transparent pricing for both one-off advisory work and ongoing compliance support. Contact ABM Chartered Accountants for a tailored quote.