noticed quite a few items on ebay say ITEMS TO HAVE VAT @ 17.5% ADDED TO THE END BID

for example
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Rover-MGZR-Alloy-Wheels-Tyres-16-x-4_W0QQitemZ270147055118QQihZ017QQcategoryZ9888QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

how does this work? it doesnt seem right to me, paying VAT on 2nd hand goods?

If you google for VAT on 2nd hand items it appears it is possible to do it; if the seller is vat registered. It looks as if the seller is supposed to pay VAT on their profit rather than the whole price though.

If the seller is vat registered and sells through his business he has to charge vat.
If you buy a s/hand van from a dealer it has vat on it
If you buy a s/hand part from a registered scrap yard it has vat on it.
Doesnt matter new or used.

^^^

what they said

Ask for their VAT number & make sure you get a VAT Invoice.

Ask them if you pay cash can you have it vat free ?

Quote from: mr_rollAsk them if you pay cash can you have it vat free ?

Its still to go through their accounts.