Hello. I recently bought a trailer tent from the uk. The vendor would not zero rate the vat so it was paid. I thought I could possibly claim the vat back by having papers stamped at the french customs....there were no french customs when we crossed the border, but maybe we can try again another time. Anyone have any knowledge of this. I think its called an indirect export but I am not sure if its possible to claim the tax back from the authorities in the uk as an individual. Thanks

Too late. You should have stopped at the UK border. There, you complete a short form, attach your receipt, and get the VAT back.

Pretty sure you can't do it now.

Thought it was when I left the EU I needed to get paperwork ie the french customs at french/swiss border for me. Form C33 I think.

Form C33 is for taking household effects into the UK without having to pay duty.

Stopping at the French border with Switzerland is necessary for customs purposes only although you should also be able to get the form mentioned below stamped there too - I think it's easier to do it in the UK as there is always someone there.

Process:

• Get form VAT-407 from the shop or download it from C&E and get shop to complete it.
• At the UK border get it stamped by the customs official - you need your residence permit to prove you live outside the EU.
• Send said form back to the shop and they must then refund the VAT to your account less a possible small admin charge.

Simples .