Why do I need to register for a UK VAT number?

If you sell goods with a value up to £135 (ex. shipping costs, VAT, and insurance) to a private individual, then you must charge the final VAT at the moment of sale.  If you sell to a company, then whether you need a VAT number in the UK depends on the conditions of sale. Your company is expected to routinely send a tax return to HMRC. Learn more about requesting a UK VAT number here.