Understanding and Using Your IOSS Number for UK to EU Shipping

The Import One Stop Shop (IOSS) is a system designed to help businesses in non-EU countries, including the UK, streamline the process of declaring and paying VAT on goods sold to customers in the EU. By registering for VAT in just one EU member state, businesses can simplify their operations and avoid the need for multiple VAT registrations.

What is an IOSS Number?

The IOSS number is a 12-digit identifier used for VAT purposes when shipping goods from non-EU countries to the EU. It always starts with 'IM' followed by 10 digits with no spaces (e.g., IM0123456789).

Key Benefits of IOSS

• Simplified VAT Registration: Register for VAT in one EU state instead of multiple.
• Efficient VAT Declaration: Easily declare and pay VAT for goods sold to the EU.

Setting Up IOSS with byrd

During the onboarding process, you will be asked for your IOSS number. Ensure that this number is provided to your Onboarding Team so it can be added to your account.

How to Know if IOSS is Successfully Applied

• The IOSS number should not be printed on the shipping label.
• The IOSS logo must be visible on the label.
• IOSS should be included as part of the electronic pre-advice.

When to Use IOSS

The IOSS number should be used under specific conditions:

• Value Limit: Items must not exceed €150 or £135.
• Exclusions: IOSS does not cover excise goods such as alcohol and cigarettes. In our system, these items are indicated as Dangerous Goods with UN1987.

Non-Applicable Regions

IOSS cannot be used for shipments to:

• Mount Athos, Canary Islands, Faroe Islands, Åland Islands, Greenland, Channel Islands, Campione d'Italia, Italian waters of Lake Lugano, Island of Heligoland, territory of Büsingen, Ceuta, Melilla, Livigno, Antilles, San Marino, Gibraltar, Andorra, Vatican City, and French territories such as Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique, Réunion, Saint-Barthélemy, Saint-Martin, Mayotte.