Exporter information

VAT [Zero Rating on Export Transactions]

Zero rating only applies where goods are known to have been removed from the UK.

Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH) acts as an indirect exporter, so has no control over the goods once they have left the site location. This means we can’t verify that the goods have physically left the UK. 

As a security, we therefore take a returnable deposit, equal to the VAT due, in case we don’t receive satisfactory proof of export. This VAT deposit is refunded once LSH receives satisfactory proof of export.

Logistics service providers

For a list of third-party logistics service companies with the experience and expertise in handling the unique transportation needs of export auction buyers, follow this link:

Directory of Approved Machinery Movers & Logistics Companies

We have provided this list to help you contact a provider that has the required skills to assist you, and who understands LSH’s collection processes.

However, these providers do NOT work for LSH. Any instruction given is at your own risk and expense. LSH is not in any way liable for any acts or omissions of the providers.

We suggest you issue your instruction to your chosen logistics provider as soon as possible to allow them to make the arrangements for collection before the removal deadline. They will require a copy of your invoice.

Factors to consider prior to bidding

Please check:

1. The country where the items are destined to go holds no import restrictions on the goods that you wish to purchase.
2. The country has no import licence restrictions or a restriction on currency allocation.
3. The country has no prolonged inspection procedure, which might cause excessive delay in allowing your goods to be imported.
4. You understand the clearance process and timescales/deadlines for removal.
5. Your money transfer can meet the deadline for payment.
6. If there are any special health and safety requirements that might impact on collection.
7. Where the assets are located.
8. How you are going to manage the collection and if you will need to hire a third-party contractor to manage this on your behalf.

The collection process

Dismantling or collecting equipment yourself

1. Payment must be received in full before collection.
2. Ensure that you have put in place any necessary health and safety requirements for the collection site.
3. If an appointment is necessary, make a removal appointment with the sale site contact after you have paid in full. Contact information for each sale will be provided by email with your invoice.
4. Ensure you have everything you need for dismantling and collecting, including the correct PPE.
5. If no appointment is necessary, confirm the asset location and removal timescales and go to the specified location to pick up the assets.

Using a third-party service provider to dismantle or collect equipment for you

1. Payment must be received in full before your third-party contractor collects the goods.
2. Determine which logistics provider you will hire and how the assets will be shipped.
3. Please inform us in writing who will be collecting the items on your behalf. Ideally, complete the pro-forma certificate of shipment which will be forwarded to you with your invoice.
4. Ensure your contractor is aware of any health and safety requirements for being on site and removing equipment.
5. If an appointment is necessary, ask your agent or contractor to make a removal appointment with the sale site contact after you have paid in full. Contact information for each sale will be provided by email with your invoice.

Information to be given to your service provider

1. The name and date of the auction and location of the equipment.
2. A copy of your invoice.
3. The timescales for clearance from the site.
4. Any health and safety requirements, such as any risk assessments or method statements that could be mandatory for removal purposes.
5. The export destination.
6. Contact details for LSH’s export coordinator: email: eallan@lsh.co.uk or telephone: (0)23 8046 1646.

Health and safety

In addition to site specific requirements, you may be required to provide risk assessments and method statements (RAMS).

If you purchase a lot that requires RAMS to be completed, please be aware that you, or your contractor, will not be permitted access to the site to remove any of your lots until the required RAMS has been completed and reviewed by an LSH representative. If you or your contractor need access to the site during the collection period to review equipment for RAMS purposes, or have any further questions, please contact the relevant case manager whose contact information will be provided by email with your invoice or on request.

Services you may require

Most assets purchased at auction are not prepared, packaged or otherwise ready for shipment. Assets are generally sold from commercial environments and are in “as is where is” condition.

Generally, LSH does not prepare, collect or ship items. You need to contract one or more logistics services to do this.

Packing: Fragile equipment may require specialist packing. If you purchase multiple assets, they may be able to be consolidated into one box or container before shipping.

Please note, most courier services do not accept loose or unpackaged goods. We strongly suggest that you speak to us prior to bidding to ask if we can help you pack smaller items for shipment. If we are unable to help, you will require a service that packs and delivers.

Machine moving or uplift contractors: Large, complicated machinery will probably need to be de-commissioned which will require it to be disconnected, disassembled and loaded onto transport. Most haulage contractors or uplift companies can provide these services and have staff with specific skills or certification and equipment to carry out this service.

Please make sure that the contractor you choose can meet your requirements, including the necessary health and safety requirements which will be detailed in the catalogue for each sale.  Please note, your contractor may apply an additional charge for the preparation of risk assessments and method statements.

Freight forwarders, shipping and international transportation: Freight forwarders will use their own approved contractors for dismantling, collection and delivery for either sea or air freight. They will require certain information about the equipment so they can choose a suitable contractor for your needs (please refer to the above for more detail).

In addition, land, air or sea container transportation across international borders usually involves the additional complexities of specially-prepared documents that enable goods to pass customs checkpoints without penalties or delays. Freight forwarding companies have the experience to manage these complexities.

Onsite contractors: In some instances, and to ensure that health and safety guidelines are being met, LSH will engage an uplift contractor to be on site for the whole of the clearance period. We prefer purchasers to use this contractor for the dismantling and uplift process as this can be managed by LSH to minimise risk. There will be an additional charge for this service, which will be added to the description on each lot in our catalogue if applicable.

Insurance: When contracting with an approved provider, we recommend that you discuss optional insurance on your purchases with the third-party machinery mover or freight forwarder for the time the assets are in their possession. Please refer to our Terms and Condition of sale by online auction for additional information with regard to “Risk and Title”.