How do I know whether a webshop applies the VAT rules (and is therefore IOSS registered)?

Non-European webshops can register with the EU to enable the payment of VAT and import costs in advance in their webshop. Most major webshops such as AliExpress, E-bay and Wish have already registered.

You can easily recognise a registered webshop: if your shopping basket indicates that VAT is included, then you’re safe! That way you avoid:

• paying unwanted import charges and customs clearance fees;
• paying VAT on customs clearance fees;
• waiting longer to receive your shipment.

NB: for goods with a value above €150, you will always have to pay import charges as these are not paid by the webshop.