What Are the VAT Rules for Aliexpress Orders in UK?

Q: Do I have to pay VAT on AliExpress orders shipped to the UK?

Yes, UK shoppers must pay VAT on most AliExpress orders delivered to the UK. Since 1 January 2021, the UK government requires VAT to be collected on goods valued at £135 or less at the point of sale. For orders above £135, VAT is collected at the border when the goods arrive in the UK.

Q: Who is responsible for collecting VAT on my AliExpress order?

For orders valued at £135 or less, AliExpress acts as the “marketplace facilitator” and is responsible for collecting and remitting VAT to HMRC. For orders over £135, you, as the importer, are responsible for paying VAT, typically to the courier or Royal Mail before delivery.

Q: Will I have to pay any customs duties in addition to VAT?

Customs duties are separate from VAT. For goods valued under £135, customs duty is not usually charged, but VAT still applies. For goods over £135, customs duty may apply depending on the type of goods and their value. You can check the latest rules and thresholds on the UK government website.

Q: What happens if AliExpress does not charge VAT at checkout?

If AliExpress fails to collect VAT at checkout for orders under £135, you may be required to pay VAT (and possibly a handling fee) to the courier before your parcel is delivered. Always check your order summary to ensure VAT is included to avoid unexpected charges.

Q: Can I reclaim VAT on AliExpress orders for business purposes?

If you are a VAT-registered UK business and the goods are for business use, you may be able to reclaim import VAT. You must keep all documentation, including receipts and VAT invoices, and follow HMRC’s rules for VAT recovery. Consult your accountant or the HMRC website for specific requirements.

Understanding VAT Rules for AliExpress Orders in the UK

Shopping on AliExpress has become increasingly popular among UK residents seeking affordable products and unique items from overseas. However, since the UK left the European Union, the rules around VAT (Value Added Tax) for online purchases have changed significantly. Many shoppers are now concerned about how these VAT regulations impact the final price they pay, whether extra charges will be applied at delivery, and how to avoid unexpected costs. Understanding the current VAT rules is crucial for anyone ordering from AliExpress to ensure a smooth shopping experience and avoid surprises.

With the introduction of new UK VAT policies, buyers must be aware of when and how VAT is collected on AliExpress orders. Issues such as customs clearance, delivery delays, and extra fees have become common concerns for UK shoppers. Knowing the correct procedures and what to expect can help you make informed decisions, choose reliable sellers, and budget accurately for your online purchases. This guide explains the key VAT rules for AliExpress orders in the UK, so you can shop confidently and avoid unnecessary complications.

Curious how VAT impacts your AliExpress bargains in the UK? Unlock extra savings on your next order—discover today’s best deals on our exclusive promo page and make your shopping even sweeter!

AliExpress VAT Rules for UK Orders: What Shoppers Need to Know

Understanding VAT on AliExpress Orders Shipped to the UK

Value Added Tax (VAT) is a consumption tax applied to most goods and services sold in the United Kingdom, including items imported from overseas platforms like AliExpress. Since Brexit, the UK government has implemented new VAT collection rules for eCommerce imports, directly impacting how UK buyers shop on AliExpress.

All goods valued at £135 or less (including shipping and insurance) are subject to UK VAT at the point of sale on AliExpress.
Orders over £135 are not charged VAT at checkout but are subject to import VAT and possibly customs duties, collected by UK customs upon arrival.

For AliExpress orders delivered to the UK, VAT is charged at the point of sale on goods valued at £135 or less, and this amount is included in your checkout total.

Do I Pay VAT on Goods from China to the UK?

Yes, UK buyers must pay VAT on goods purchased from China via AliExpress. For orders up to £135, AliExpress automatically collects UK VAT at checkout and remits it to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). For orders above £135, VAT is collected at the UK border by customs, and you may be required to pay it before receiving your parcel.

For orders up to £135: VAT is included in your AliExpress payment. No further VAT is due upon delivery.
For orders over £135: VAT (and any applicable customs duties) must be paid to the courier or Royal Mail before delivery.

AliExpress VAT UK: How Is VAT Calculated?

The AliExpress tax calculator automatically determines the correct VAT rate (currently 20% for most goods) and applies it to your order total, including shipping and insurance costs. This ensures that UK buyers pay the correct amount of tax according to UK law.

VAT is shown clearly in your AliExpress order summary before you pay.
Your final price includes VAT, so you do not have to worry about unexpected charges for orders under £135.

AliExpress UK VAT Number and Seller Responsibilities

For UK-bound orders, AliExpress acts as the deemed supplier and is responsible for collecting and remitting VAT to HMRC. AliExpress uses a UK VAT number for these transactions, which is typically displayed on your invoice.

AliExpress UK VAT number is used for compliance with UK tax regulations.
Individual sellers do not need to register for UK VAT if AliExpress handles the transaction as the marketplace facilitator.

How to Get a VAT Invoice from AliExpress

If you need a VAT invoice from AliExpress for your UK purchase, you can usually download it directly from your order details. This is especially important for business buyers or those seeking to reclaim VAT.

Go to “My Orders” in your AliExpress account.
Locate the relevant order and click “View Details.”
Look for an option labelled “Download Invoice” or “Tax Invoice.”
If not available, contact AliExpress customer service and request a VAT invoice, providing your order number and details.

Note: The invoice should display the AliExpress UK VAT number and the amount of VAT charged.

Can I Claim VAT Back from AliExpress? How Do I Get VAT Back on Purchases?

Most private individuals cannot reclaim VAT on AliExpress purchases. However, UK VAT-registered businesses may be able to claim back VAT paid on eligible business-related purchases, provided they have a valid VAT invoice showing the supplier’s UK VAT number.

Private buyers: VAT is a final cost and cannot be reclaimed.
Business buyers: Keep your VAT invoices and consult your accountant or HMRC guidance for reclaim procedures.

To claim VAT back as a business:

Ensure you have a valid VAT invoice from AliExpress with the UK VAT number.
Include the purchase in your VAT return as input tax.
Follow HMRC’s rules for evidence and record-keeping.

AliExpress Customs Clearance and Import Duties

For AliExpress orders over £135, VAT is not charged at checkout. Instead, your parcel is assessed by UK customs when it arrives. You may be required to pay import VAT and, if applicable, customs duties before your parcel is delivered.

You will be contacted by the courier (such as Royal Mail, Parcelforce, or DHL) to pay any outstanding taxes and fees.
Customs clearance may cause delivery delays, so always track your parcel using the provided tracking number.

AliExpress customs clearance is handled by the shipping company, but buyers are responsible for paying any duties or taxes before delivery.

What Is the VAT Limit for UK Customs?

The VAT limit for UK customs is £135. This means:

Orders up to £135 (including shipping and insurance) have VAT collected at checkout by AliExpress.
Orders above £135 do not have VAT collected at checkout; instead, VAT and possibly customs duties are collected at the border.

Important: If you order multiple items shipped together and their combined value exceeds £135, the entire shipment will be subject to import VAT and possibly customs duties.

Do You Pay VAT Twice When Buying from Europe?

For AliExpress orders shipped from EU warehouses to the UK, you may be concerned about double taxation. However, since Brexit, the UK is no longer part of the EU VAT system.

AliExpress collects UK VAT at checkout for orders up to £135, even if the goods are shipped from Europe.
No EU VAT should be charged on top of UK VAT for direct sales to UK consumers.
If you are asked to pay VAT again on delivery, contact AliExpress support with your order details and proof of VAT payment.

Tip: Always check your order summary to ensure only UK VAT is charged. If you see both EU and UK VAT, query this with the seller or AliExpress.

Buyer Tax Information Collection on AliExpress

Occasionally, AliExpress may request additional tax information from UK buyers during checkout. This is known as Buyer Tax Information Collection and is primarily for business purchases or high-value orders.

You may be asked for your UK VAT number if you are a business buyer.
For personal purchases, you can usually proceed without entering a VAT number.

Providing accurate information ensures your order is processed smoothly and complies with UK import regulations.

How to Avoid AliExpress Tax in the UK: Is It Possible?

Many shoppers search for ways on how to avoid AliExpress tax UK. However, avoiding VAT on AliExpress orders is not legal or advisable. UK customs and AliExpress have strict processes to ensure VAT is collected on all eligible imports.

Declaring lower values or marking parcels as gifts is illegal and can result in fines, confiscation, or delivery delays.
AliExpress is required by law to collect and remit VAT for UK orders up to £135.
For orders over £135, UK customs will charge VAT and duties before delivery.

Trying to avoid VAT can jeopardise your buyer protection and may result in your account being suspended or parcels being seized by customs.

AliExpress Tax Calculator: Estimating Your Total Cost

Before you buy, you can use the AliExpress tax calculator to estimate the total price, including VAT and shipping. The calculator is built into the AliExpress checkout process for UK buyers.

Enter your UK delivery address to see the final price.
VAT is automatically calculated and displayed before you pay.
For orders over £135, AliExpress will notify you that additional taxes may be due upon delivery.

AliExpress UK: Tips for Smooth Shopping

To ensure a hassle-free experience when shopping on AliExpress UK, follow these best practices:

Check VAT inclusion: Confirm that VAT is included in your order total for purchases up to £135.
Order value awareness: Be mindful of the £135 threshold to avoid unexpected customs charges.
Track your parcels: Use the tracking number provided by AliExpress to monitor your order’s progress, especially for higher-value shipments.
Keep invoices: Download and save VAT invoices for business purchases or warranty claims.
Read AliExpress UK reviews: Check recent feedback, including on forums like Aliexpress tax UK reddit, for tips and real buyer experiences.

AliExpress UK Shipping: Customs and Delivery Times

AliExpress UK shipping times can vary based on the seller, shipping method, and customs processing. VAT compliance generally does not affect delivery speed, but customs clearance for high-value orders may introduce delays.

For orders under £135, parcels typically clear customs quickly since VAT has already been paid.
For orders above £135, allow extra time for customs inspection and payment of duties.

AliExpress customs clearance is handled by the courier, but you may need to pay VAT or duties online before your parcel is released.

AliExpress Tax UK Reddit: Community Experiences

Many UK shoppers share their experiences and questions on AliExpress tax UK Reddit threads. Common issues discussed include VAT charges, customs delays, and tips for obtaining VAT invoices.

Community advice can help you avoid common pitfalls and understand the latest VAT rules.
Always verify information from forums with official AliExpress and HMRC guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions About AliExpress VAT Rules in the UK

Can I claim VAT back from AliExpress?

Private buyers cannot reclaim VAT paid on AliExpress purchases. Only UK VAT-registered businesses can claim VAT back, and only if they have a valid VAT invoice showing the AliExpress UK VAT number.

Do I pay VAT on goods from China to the UK?

Yes, VAT is due on all goods imported from China to the UK. For orders up to £135, VAT is collected by AliExpress at checkout. For orders over £135, VAT is collected by UK customs before delivery.

How to get VAT invoice from AliExpress?

You can download your VAT invoice from the order details page in your AliExpress account. If not available, contact AliExpress customer service and request a VAT invoice with the UK VAT number.

What is the VAT limit for UK customs?

The VAT limit is £135. Orders up to this value have VAT collected at checkout; above this, VAT is collected by customs on arrival in the UK.

How do I get VAT back on purchases?

Only VAT-registered businesses can reclaim VAT on qualifying purchases by submitting a valid VAT invoice in their VAT return. Private buyers cannot reclaim VAT.

Do you pay VAT twice when buying from Europe?

No, you should not pay VAT twice. AliExpress collects UK VAT at checkout for orders up to £135, regardless of whether the goods are shipped from the EU or China. If you are charged VAT again on delivery, contact AliExpress support for assistance.

A laptop displaying the AliExpress website sits on a desk, with a miniature shopping cart and a UK flag placed beside it, representing online shopping and VAT rules for UK buyers.

FAQ: What Are the VAT Rules for AliExpress Orders in the UK?

Do I have to pay VAT on AliExpress orders shipped to the UK?

Yes, UK shoppers must pay VAT on most AliExpress orders delivered to the UK. Since 1 January 2021, the UK government requires VAT to be collected on goods valued at £135 or less at the point of sale. For orders above £135, VAT is collected at the border when the goods arrive in the UK.

How is VAT calculated on AliExpress purchases?

VAT is usually charged at 20% on the total value of your order, including the price of the goods, shipping, and any insurance. For items under £135, AliExpress collects VAT at checkout and displays it in your payment summary. For items over £135, VAT is handled by UK customs and may be collected by the courier upon delivery.

Who is responsible for collecting VAT on my AliExpress order?

For orders valued at £135 or less, AliExpress acts as the “marketplace facilitator” and is responsible for collecting and remitting VAT to HMRC. For orders over £135, you, as the importer, are responsible for paying VAT, typically to the courier or Royal Mail before delivery.

Will I have to pay any customs duties in addition to VAT?

Customs duties are separate from VAT. For goods valued under £135, customs duty is not usually charged, but VAT still applies. For goods over £135, customs duty may apply depending on the type of goods and their value. You can check the latest rules and thresholds on the UK government website.

What happens if AliExpress does not charge VAT at checkout?

If AliExpress fails to collect VAT at checkout for orders under £135, you may be required to pay VAT (and possibly a handling fee) to the courier before your parcel is delivered. Always check your order summary to ensure VAT is included to avoid unexpected charges.

How do I know if VAT has been included in my AliExpress order?

VAT should be clearly shown in your AliExpress payment summary at checkout. Look for a separate line indicating the VAT amount. If you are unsure, contact AliExpress customer service for confirmation before placing your order.

Are there any exemptions from VAT for UK buyers on AliExpress?

Most goods imported from AliExpress to the UK are subject to VAT. There are limited exemptions, such as certain books or children’s clothing, but these are rare on AliExpress. Always assume VAT will apply unless you are certain your item qualifies for an exemption. For more details, visit the official HMRC guidance.

Can I reclaim VAT on AliExpress orders for business purposes?

If you are a VAT-registered UK business and the goods are for business use, you may be able to reclaim import VAT. You must keep all documentation, including receipts and VAT invoices, and follow HMRC’s rules for VAT recovery. Consult your accountant or the HMRC website for specific requirements.

About The Author

Oliver

See author's posts