Do I pay VAT when importing a coffee roaster?

Import VAT is generally due on imported machinery. VAT-registered businesses can usually reclaim it. Your customs agent or HMRC guidance will confirm the treatment.

Can I use a roaster built for the US market in the UK?

Possibly, but check voltage, frequency, gas type and safety documentation. Conversions must be done properly and certified.

Sourcing a roaster from abroad: import, standards and support

A roaster bought abroad can look much cheaper until it is landed, converted, certified and supported. The checks to make before you pay a deposit.

7 min read Updated 9 October 2026

Roasters are built in many countries, and buying direct from a maker abroad, or a used machine from another market, can widen your choice. The purchase price is only the start. Work out the landed, installed and supported cost before comparing it with a machine bought locally.

The landed cost of a machine

Line	Notes
Machine price	Check the currency and whether it is ex works or delivered.
Crating and export handling	Often charged separately by the maker.
Freight and insurance	Sea, road or air; insure at full replacement value.
Customs clearance	A customs agent or forwarder usually handles the declaration.
Import duty	Depends on the commodity code and the country of origin; preferential rates may apply under a trade agreement if the origin rules are met.
Import VAT	Charged at import on the customs value plus duty and freight; VAT-registered businesses can usually reclaim it.
Delivery to site and offloading	Crane or forklift, access permits.
Conversion and certification	Voltage, gas type, safety devices, documentation.
Installation and commissioning	By a qualified engineer; travel costs if the maker sends one.

Classification and duty

Every import needs a commodity code. Your customs agent will classify the machine, and you can check rates on the UK Trade Tariff service. Do not assume the code or rate from another buyer's shipment; the right code depends on the machine's function and design. You will need an EORI number to import into Great Britain. See importing green coffee for how EORI and customs agents work.

Standards and safety

Ask the maker for a declaration of conformity and the product safety marking that applies in Great Britain, and keep them on file.
Check the electrical supply: UK commercial supplies are 230 V single-phase or 400 V three-phase at 50 Hz. Machines built for 60 Hz or other voltages may need changes to motors and controls.
Check the gas type and pressure the burner is built for, and whether conversion parts and settings are available. Gas work in Great Britain must be done by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Manuals and safety labels should be available in English.

Support

The question that matters most is what happens when it breaks. Ask where the nearest trained engineer is, how parts are shipped and how long they take, whether remote diagnosis is offered, and whether a starter kit of wear parts can be included. Speak to other owners in your country.

Before you pay a deposit

Written quote with Incoterm stated (who pays what to where)
Declaration of conformity and safety marking documents
Electrical and gas specifications matched to your site
Commodity code and duty rate confirmed by your customs agent
Insurance in transit at full value
Commissioning and training agreed in writing
Spare parts kit and support terms

Where Roastnet helps

Questions roasters ask

Do I pay VAT when importing a coffee roaster?: Import VAT is generally due on imported machinery. VAT-registered businesses can usually reclaim it. Your customs agent or HMRC guidance will confirm the treatment.
Can I use a roaster built for the US market in the UK?: Possibly, but check voltage, frequency, gas type and safety documentation. Conversions must be done properly and certified.

Official sources

Rules change. These sources were checked on 9 October 2026; always confirm the current position with the body that publishes them before you act.