The market is packed with a great selection of massage guns, from budget-friendly options to the top-tier and more pricey ones. Choosing a good massage gun can be crucial to enhancing your muscle recovery and performance.

If you are looking for the right massage gun for you this year, here are the top 10 things to consider before making a purchasing decision.

1 Stall force

If you are a fan of intense deep tissue massage and have well-built muscles then stall force is definitely one of the things to consider before purchasing a percussion massage gun. Stall force refers to the amount of pressure applied to the motor before it stops working. In this respect, the higher the stall force the more powerful the massage is. Cheaper options have 20 to 30 pounds, while the standard ones have 40 to 50 pounds of stall force.

2 Speed and RPM

It is good to know that the speed refers to the strength of the percussions, while RPM (revolutions per minute) denotes the number of percussions per minute. The speed intensity and RPM can vary depending on the model, but always look for massage guns have adjustable intensity settings that allow you to increase or decrease the strength and get more control over the massage session. The RPM can range from 1000-3200, with some models capable of reaching up to 5000 RPM. Standard speed range is from 1400-2800 percussions per minute will suit most users.

3 Amplitude

An important feature that determines the effectiveness of a massage gun is certainly the amplitude or the stroke length. It refers to the distance the massage head travels back and forth. Budget-friendly deep tissue massagers usually have an amplitude of 8 to 10mm, while the top-tier ones have 12mm to 16mm of amplitude. In other words, the higher the amplitude, the deeper it can reach into the muscle and provide more powerful muscle-stimulation.

4 Battery life

Another strong point for the right massage gun is definitely a long battery life especially if you do not often have immediate access to a charging station. Some good options will have a battery life of at least 2-3 hours per charge. Most new generation massage guns have a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery. They also come with a type-C charging cable, which means you can easily and fast charge the device in less than an hour. More expensive models offer an additional interchangeable battery so your percussion massager is ready for use anytime.

5 Weight

Remember you have to hold your massage gun in your hand for at least 10 minutes during one session so it better not to be too heavy. Take into account the overall size as well. A smaller and lightweight handheld deep tissue massager (under a kilo) is more convenient to carry around in your sports bag and maneuver across various muscle groups without putting a lot of strain on you hand and wrist. Some good options will come with a travel case or carrying bag.

6 Level of noise

The majority of people who use the massage gun complain that a high level of noise some of them produce is not only annoying but can seriously disrupt their neighbors activities or even wake up their children. If you are looking for a relaxing massage experience the advice is to always look for a QUIET percussion massage gun whose level of noise does not exceed 35db (which can be compared to a quiet library whisper). Check the noise level decibel chart  to get a grasp of some common noises we encounter in our daily life.

7 Materials

Although the quality of build is something we tend to disregard when making a purchasing decision, it should certainly be taken into account if you wish your device to stand the test of time. Massage guns are used for daily pain relief and recovery and they have to withstand excessive wear and tear. Therefore, we recommend you search for massage guns made of durable materials, such as anodized aluminium or massage attachments made of silicone. Moreover, anodized aluminium is claimed to be long lasting and corrosion resistant, while silicone is skin-friendly and easy to clean.

 

8 Ergonomics

Another feature that is often overlooked is the ergonomics in the product design. When this principle is applied to percussion massage guns, it usually refers to the handle that has to be designed in such a way to provide comfortable grip and prevent hand fatigue. Before choosing the right massage gun, look for the ergonomic non-slip handle that is easy to hold and can reduce stress and strain on your hands and wrists.

9 A selection of attachments

Bear in mind that each muscle group deserves an appropriate and carefully selected attachment for it to efficiently and quickly relieve muscle soreness and tension. Since massage guns are made for a targeted pain relief, it is important that a massage gun comes with a variety of massage heads. To name just a few, a ball head is primarily designed for large muscle groups, a bullet head is ideal for trigger points like neck, palm, soles while the fork head is suitable for treating your spine, shoulder, forearms, Achilles.

10 Safety

It goes without saying that all electrical massage devices need to have auto-shut off and overheating protection in order to prevent yourself from hurting, bruising or even damaging a muscle. It is recommended that you use the massage gun in continuous motion for no more than 15 minutes per sessions. Search for reputable brands with good reviews from other professional athletes or therapists.

FINAL DECISION IS ALL YOURS

Overall, it’s essential to choose a percussion massage gun that meets your specific needs whether you are a professional athlete or just a fitness enthusiast. Do some research online to compare different brands and models before making your final decision. Consider your budget, goals, and recovery needs to select the right massage gun for you.

If you ever experienced any kind of severe muscle pain, no matter whether as a result of overexercise, poor posture, injury or even stress, you know that it can seriously disrupt your everyday activities. Chronic muscle pain and tension can deteriorate the quality of life in the long run, especially your ability to work, exercise and actively interact with people. Having to cope with pain and tension on regular basis  can also lead to depression and anxiety. According to a study muskoskeletal pain ’’is a common problem effecting as many as 3 out of 10 adults in the UK’’. Experts agree that muscle pain is an inflammatory condition of soft tissue that can affect one muscle or an entire muscle group. It is characterised by tender trigger points or sore spots that feel painful and stiff. Although it can be treated with a variety on anti-inflammatory medication, there are also alternative therapies that, if there are no contraindications, can be applied to gradually reduce muscle soreness. Hot and cold therapy here come into play.

How does hot and cold therapy work?

Thermotherapy or hot therapy in most cases involves the use of hot water/bath/shower, hot packs, heating pads ot hot stones (in combination with massage) to treat chronic muscle pain, especially neck, shoulder and low back pain. Heat can increase blood circulation and supply muscle tissue with oxygen and nutrients to effectively relieve and relax stiff muscles and speed up healing.

Cryotherapy or cold therapy is a method in medicine when cold compress, ice pack, cold water immersion or ice cubes are used to reduce acute pain. Cold can decrease blood flow and is primarily used to reduce swelling and inflammation. On top of this, there are studies that show that whole body cryotherapy can significantly decrease pain in patients with fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, oseoarthritis. Many famous sportsmen including Christiano Ronaldo and Usain Bolt use cryotherapy to recover from sports-related injuries.

Benefits of cryotherapy and thermotherapy

Both methods are used to treat a wide variety of conditions.

Benefits of cryotherapy:

• Decrease blood circulation and tissue metabolism;
• Reduce redness, swelling, inflammation;
• Relieve tight knots, spasm, sore muscles and speed up muscle recovery;
• Post-exercise –first aid for immediate injuries, relieves soreness after exercise (24 to 48 hours after injury);
• Cold compress to get rid of eye bags;
• Can ease symptoms of arthritis.

Advantages of thermotherapy:

• Increase blood circulation and tissue temperature;
• Ease muscle spasm and tension, improve range of motion, increase connective tissue elasticity;
• Relieve tight knots, spasm, sore muscle pain;
• Warm up muscles before workout;
• Hot compress to relieve sinus pain.

When it comes to treating injuries, muscle strains and sprains, the difference between the two is that cold therapy should be used as soon as the injury occurs, while hot therapy is applied after the inflammation has decreased.

Alternating heat and cold

Alternating hot and cold therapy, also referred to as contrast therapy, implies switching between the heat and cold to ease delayed onset muscle soreness, which is pain you feel after strenuous workouts. 24 h cold water immersion and hot pack therapy have proven to alleviate pain when applied 1 hour after intense exercise.

One clinical trial shows that the heating and cooling combination therapy is a safe method for reducing chronic back pain, but it points out that its excessive use can cause skin damage so it should be applied carefully. Moreover, studies suggest that contrast water therapy (CWT) and cold/hot packs is a frequently used technique to promote post-exercise recovery.

Alternating heat and ice therapy can provide immediate relief for people with sciatica. Ice can help decrease inflammation, while heat stimulates blood flow to the painful area, which accelerates healing. Contrast therapy also help relieve painful muscle spasms that often accompany sciatica.

 

Contraindications

Long exposure to heat and cold may have negative effects as well. Make sure you apply them for only recommended period of time and with caution. Never fall asleep and always sit in the upright position when using heat or ice. There are certain contraindications to the use of heat and cold:

• Heat and cold therapy should not be used on people with diabetes, dermatitis, vascular diseases, heart disease, deep vein thrombosis or multiple sclerosis (unless under medical supervision).
• If you are pregnant or have hypertension, always ask for medical advice.
• People with skin infections or dermatitis;
• People with poor blood circulation.
• People insensitive to heat and cold should not use either therapy since it may cause skin burns or damage.
• Neither therapy should be applied on open wounds.

 

How to do hot and cold muscle therapy at home

It would be really convenient if we could replace ice packs and heating pads with one portable device that can provide both heat or cold to relieve muscle fatigue, which you can easily use at home or pack in your gym bag. Having this idea in mind Donnerberg has launched a new product – massage gun with a hot/cold attachment. Use the attachment separately or in combination with massage. It shuts down automatically after 10 minutes of continuous use. In this way there is no need to worry that it will burn or damage your skin. There are two levels of heat which you can adjust depending on your condition. Moreover, you can also alternate between the two modes by a simple press of a button. The device can precisely deliver temperatures from 16 °C to 48 °C. It is ideal for immediate muscle relaxation, sports injuries and targeted pain relief.

 

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4494172/

https://clok.uclan.ac.uk/35883/1/35883%20Richards%20J%202020%20The%20Use%20of%20Contrast%20Therapy%20in%20Soft%20Tissue%20Injury%20Management%20and%20Post-Exercise%20Recovery.pdf

 

Medical disclaimer: The content on this website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and can be used for informational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider and follow their advice accordingly.

 

 

 

What is vibration massage?

Vibration massage, if you ever wondered, is a massage technique that involves the use of vibrations to stimulate blood flow, eliminate pain and reduce inflammation. Vibrations are defined as continuous rapid slight shaking or trembling movements. Oscillatory movements of a certain intensity have proven to be very important for the normal functioning of the organism.

Since ancient times, people noticed that the use of vibrations might have a healing effect. However, only in the 19th century have they developed a special technique that used oscillations during for therapeutic purposes. In the mid-19th century a Russian physician Gustav Zander developed a range of therapeutic machines, many of which used vibrations. Nowadays with a wide selection of electric massage devices vibration massage therapy has regained its popularity.

Vibration massage can be either applied to your whole body or to certain body parts (localized). Whole body vibration exposes your entire body to rapid oscillatory movements while you are sitting, standing or working out on a vibration plate. In this article we will dive deeper into the benefits of localized vibration massage therapy. When compared to a whole-body vibration, localized vibration massage stimulates and targets one specific body muscle area, which increases and maximizes its beneficial effects.

How does vibration affect the body? What does it do to muscles?

Vibrations of a certain intensity and frequency penetrate deep into the muscle tissue causing muscles to contract and relax. The muscle contractions lead to an increase in blood circulation reduce fatigue and soothe muscle soreness and numbness. It is a well-known fact that good blood circulation is essential for a person’s health since blood brings oxygen and nutrients to each and every organ and helps the organism get rid of toxins.

Moreover, vibration massage is believed to stimulate nerve endings on the surface of the skin, which transfer the impulses to the brain and cause nervous, circulatory and lymphatic system to respond and restore their performance. Muscle contractions during vibration may promote lymph flow and enhance lymphatic drainage. Lymphatic drainage may decrease water retention, detoxify your body regenerate muscle tissue.

What are the main benefits of vibration massage therapy?

Like with most other types of massage, the main function of vibration massage is primarily to relax the muscles, increase blood circulation, reduce muscle pain. Trigger points, or sensitive muscle knots made in soft tissue after injuries or strenuous physical activity are likely to cause muscle pain or spasm. Vibration therapy has proven to be effective in releasing these trigger points and therefore alleviating the muscle pain associated with them.

Vibration massage is also highly beneficial for sportsmen. It can be used at the warm up stage to boost blood flow and prepare muscles to increase performance and minimize the risk of injury. Moreover, various clinical trials suggest that properly selected vibration therapy can accelerate post workout recovery, ease fatigue and relieve tight and stiff muscles, as well as improve flexibility and range of motion.

One study shows that patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) have a positive reaction to massage with vibrations. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that manifest itself as a pain in soft muscle tissue all over the body, joint pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance. Vibration therapy has proven to be a safe and well tolerated massage therapy that can improve the patient’s quality of life in the long run.

Recap: Vibration massage can provide relief for sore and stiff muscles, improve blood flow and lymphatic circulation and speed up recovery time.

Vibration massage vs Shiatsu massage

Both types of massage have their benefits and it is only a matter of your body’s needs and the current condition which one to choose. Each body and its reaction to massage is different and what works for one person may not work for the other. Shiatsu and vibration massage can even complement each other to maximize the benefits. To help you choose the right massage for you, here we list the basic similarities and differences between the two massage techniques.

Research suggests that both types of massage are likely to reduce fatigue and muscle pain ad tension, improve the function of the lymphatic system and blood circulation. Additionally, they can provide help in dealing with insomnia, provide relief from headaches, reduce stress and promote general well-being.

Shiatsu massage is a more holistic therapy which focuses on applying finger pressure on specific energy points in the body called meridians. The primary function of shiatsu massage is to remove blockage, balance the flow of energy and bring your body and mind into harmony. On the other hand, vibration massage is based on the use of vibrations to relieve muscle soreness and can offer relief for overworked muscles, accelerate recovery and increase joint strength and flexibility.

Read more: Shiatsu treatment enhances body’s own healing abilities

Donnerberg Premium massagers: How does the vibration function work?

Apart from being based on the principles of traditional shiatsu massage, Donnerberg Premium neck massagers also have an integrated vibration massage function to give your muscles complete relief of muscle pain and strain. We recommend you use the vibration function on your shoulders, back and legs to boost the blood flow and reduce soreness. Apply it on soft muscle tissue and avoid bony parts. If the massage feels uncomfortable, try adjusting the position and intensity of massage. Most importantly, the massage should always feel pleasant and if you notice that it is becoming painful, you should change the pressure using the straps or make a break from using the massager.

Donnerberg Premium neck massagers feature 2 modes of vibration: continuous vibration and vibration in regular intervals. You can start the vibration function by pressing the corresponding button on the control panel – vibrations will be applied continuously. If you press the button twice, you will change the mode of vibration – they will be performed at regular intervals – oscillations will last for 5 seconds and then pause for 2 seconds repetitively.

Is vibrating massager safe?

The intensity of vibrations in electric vibrating massagers is generally not too high to be harmful. However, you should be cautious if the massage is painful, if you feel dizziness, discomfort or any other unpleasant symptoms during a session.

Who should not use the vibration machine?

People with certain medical condition should not use vibration massagers or should consult their doctors before using it. These are only some of the contraindications:

• Pregnancy
• Oncological diseases;
• Dermatological problems and skin inflammation;
• Heart conditions;
• Increased body temperature;
• Blood disorders, such as hemophilia, thrombosis, varicose veins;
• Pacemakers, implants, artificial joints or limbs.

Conclusion

If you are suffering from frequent muscle pain and tightness that can limit you daily activities, there are many options to consider for getting the necessary pain relief, vibration massage being one of them.

Moreover, massage has become a necessity, not a luxury, especially with the invention of electric massage devices that are effortlessly easy to use. Set aside at least 15 minutes a day for a rejuvenating massage – your body will feel the difference and you may end up feeling relaxed and re-energized.

 

Medical disclaimer: The content on this website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice can be used for informational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider and follow their advice accordingly.

 

References:

https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2013/679248/

https://www.drgraeme.com/articles/2019/08/scientific-effects

https://startupsmagazine.co.uk/article-good-vibrations-finding-balance-and-wholeness-vibrational-therapy

What does self-care mean? As the name suggests, self-care is an ability of individuals to take care of and maintain their own physical, mental and emotional health. The World Health Organization acknowledges this term and suggests that individuals, as well as families and communities, should take steps to take care of their own welfare.  Although there are no strict guidelines for promoting healthy habits, it is well known that they should incorporate nutritious food, enough sleep, physical exercise, socializing.

We cannot help but ask ourselves when was the last time we did something for ourselves to feel better. It seems that the hustle of modern hectic life has taken a toll on our ability to deal with daily stressors that can negatively affect our overall well-being.

By no means should self-care be confused with selfishness. Taking care of one’s health should be taken as a priority, since only a physically and emotionally healthy person can be productive and help others as well. It is high time we started indulging in little rituals and taking a break to relax and unwind.

Self-care day ideas

Bear in mind that there aren’t correct or best ways to practice self-care. For some, it will mean going for a walk without their phone, while for others it would be sitting down for their morning coffee and enjoying every sip. The list of self-soothing activities is endless and it will completely depend on a person’s current needs and desires.

Let’s take a look at a few self-care day ideas for a perfect day dedicated entirely to you.

Go for a solo walk

Nature is known to have healing powers that have a positive effect on your health. Spending time outside can help you destress, brightens up your mood and strengthens the immune system. Moreover, regular walks increase the intake of oxygen, improve memory and concentration. Even though it is real fun spending time in nature with friends, going for a solo walk can be advantageous as well. In this way you can set your own pace without trying to catch up with somebody else’s. Furthermore, you can pick your favorite music to listen to while walking. If you are looking for stress relief, solo walks can give you space to self-meditate. In this way you can take time to focus on your breath, which will help you feel calmer and get in touch with your own body.

Reduce screen time

Most of us are connected to technology 24/7, either by choice or for work.  From the moment we wake up we tend to get hold of our phone to check texts or emails or simply catch a glimpse of the latest social media posts. It is well-known that we live in the era of information overload. It can have a negative impact on our brain, as studies suggest. Some of the consequences are fatigue, inefficiency, lack of concentration, to name just a few. People easily get addicted to social media, and growing out of this habit and reducing screen time can be challenging.

First of all, creating a tech-free area in your home sounds like a good start.  For example, designate your bedroom or kitchen as places where you won’t be using your mobile phones or laptops.  Secondly, give your eyes a rest from digital devices. Swap screen time with other activities like reading a book, preparing a meal, doing yoga, etc.

 

Get a massage and dive into restorative sleep

One of the symptoms of prolonged stress is definitely neck pain and tension. It does not just affect your body, but also your feelings and even behavior. So, if neck pain, headaches or muscle pain become debilitating perhaps you should consider getting a massage. Although there are plenty types of massage you can choose from, shiatsu massage stands out from others. It might provide deep muscle relaxation, energize your entire body and boost the immune system. Using an electric massager is a great way to get a relief and comfort your achy muscles anytime you need it without having to leave you home for a long-awaited massage appointment.

Additionally, massage can be the key to good sleep. Getting enough sleep, which is according to some studies between 7 and 9 hours, will make you feel refreshed, improves your memory and makes you more productive for the upcoming activities. Moreover, it is essential to choose the right bamboo pillow. Try to pick the one that will give your neck and spine proper support and relieve pressure on your neck and lower back.

Nourishing yourself with rejuvenating massage with a shiatsu massager followed by enough restful sleep on a comfortable bamboo pillow are essential for taking a good care of yourself.

Think about building a self-care plan

In the last couple of years with the outbreak of the pandemics people had to face a number of challenges: fear of disease, less social interactions, adapting to work from home space. As a result, people felt more stressed out, anxious or even depressed. Therefore, the need for taking a good care of yourself and others has never been so important. If you are the kind of person who likes making plans for the year ahead, perhaps creating a 12-month self-care day challenge does not sound as such a bad idea. The possibilities are endless, just bear in mind this is entirely time for you and don’t feel guilty about it!

 

https://www.lick.com/uk/blog/10-self-care-tips-to-try-at-home

http://www.stylist.co.uk/long-reads/self-care-ideas-tips-books-reading-yoga-meditation-mental-health-anxiety-depression-advice/237805

 

 

 

Workplace wellness may sound like a modern concept, but the fact is that employers have always known that healthier workers are more likely to be more productive workers. Nowadays more than ever, with the appearance of Millennials as the leading workforce, wellness-focused lifestyle is gaining more significance and popularity. Prospective employers are more than ever willing to incorporate wellness programs into their employee’s daily routine.

What does workplace health and wellness really mean?

Generally speaking, workplace wellness is considered to be any kind of workplace environment that encourages healthy behavior of all employees. It incorporates a set of organized activities at work that mainly focus on fitness, meditation, healthy eating habits, stress management. EA, an American-based company, prides itself on a great health and wellbeing programs for its workers that includes things such as access to fitness benefits, onsite fitness centers, ride-to-work schemes, and much more.

 

Why is health and wellness important in the workplace?

There are many benefits that go in favour of worksite wellness programmes.

Work-related stress may lead to demotivation, loss of sleep, anxiety and even depression. Stressed employees are prone to illness and unable to fulfill their full potential. Wellness programmes might help employees reduce stress, foster positive working environment, inspire greater performance and improve work relationships.

Moreover, promoting employee wellbeing has a positive influence not only on individuals but also on the entire organization. According to some studies corporate wellness can result not only in healthier and more productive workforce, but also lead to lower healthcare costs.

Most importantly, the vital element of a good workplace wellness program is behaviour change. Most people spend at least 40 hours of their week at work so the workplace may become the right environment for people to form and maintain healthy habits.

How to improve health and wellness in the workplace?

The ideas for promoting  and improving health and wellness-based activities in the workplace are numerous. It is vital that the activities are diverse in order to address the needs and preferences of all employees. Here are only a few to spark your interest.

On-site yoga/fitness break

It is not uncommon that some companies use their conference or break rooms to organize midday yoga classes. Yoga is believed to have a positive impact on a person’s physical and mental health. Organizing yoga classes onsite allows workers to plug off and relax just a few steps away from their office. What’s more, doing yoga with your coworkers can improve relationships and build a sense of community.

For those who prefer a more intense workout, on-site fitness programmes provide a great alternative. In case your company does not have enough space to organize a fitness class for a group of workers, vibration plates are designed to perfectly fit in the corner of your office. A 10-minute full-body workout can help employees get back into shape, reduce stress and muscle strain, boost energy and encourage better work performance.

Ride-to-work scheme

Cycle to work scheme is being introduced with the aim to foster a healthier option for daily commuting. It seems quite important to encourage more people to cycle to work and travel actively. This is how it works: firstly, employers buy bikes and safety equipment which are  then made available for their employees to ‘hire’. Workers give up a part of their pre-tax salary in exchange of a bike hire. Benefits are countless: cheaper travel, better health, increased worker productivity for businesses, while for the environment it means better air quality and lower congestion.

In-office massage

Office workers frequently complain about severe neck and shoulder pain and stiffness as a result of poor sitting posture and limited mobility. Therefore, regular massages can help them relieve stiff neck and tight shoulders, reduce headaches, relieve eyestrain, de-stress, and increase workflow.

Neck massagers with heat can be seen as a great addition to a company’s wellbeing strategy. What’s more, another advantage is that workers do not need to leave the premises and the company does not have to spend hours booking massage treatment in advance. Anyone can simply sit comfortably in their chair, turn on the massager and let it do wonders to your achy muscles. After just a 15-minute massage people are likely to return to work refreshed and energized.

Is employee wellness worth the effort?

It is well-known that a positive working environment improves worker productivity, team spirit and overall wellbeing. In principle every good business should make sure that its employees are healthy, safe, motivated and satisfied. Developing and implementing an effective wellness program can be quite time-consuming and generally requires commitment and good plan and strategy. However, studies have shown that in the long run its benefits and results can outrun the initial effort and investment.

 

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cycle-to-work-scheme-implementation-guidance

https://www.donnerberg.net/workplace-stress-how-can-you-manage-it/

 

 

EU – OSS

 

On 1 July 2021, 27 European countries will introduce new VAT regulations related to distance sales. These changes are brought about with the aim of simplifying cross border e-commerce to EU customers and refer to all online marketplaces (Amazon, eBay, Otto, Kaufland, Media Markt) and web shops.

These new rules that will go into effect on 1 July  2021 are the following:

 

1. The existing distance selling threshold will be abolished for intra EU online sales. The annual distance selling threshold for most countries was 35,000 euros (e.g. France, Italy, Spain). However, certain countries were the exception, such as Germany or the Netherlands, whose annual distance selling threshold  was 100,000 euros. This principle will be replaced by a uniform annual threshold of 10,000 euros for distance sales for ALL EU countries.
2. New One–Stop–Shop (OSS) system for the EU will be introduced. Registration for the OSS system will give advantage to sellers/retailers so that the VAT for cross-border sales is declared and paid in the customer’s country of destination.
3. E-commerce taxation will be applied according to the  COUNTRY OF DESTINATION principle.
4. These changes refer to online sales B2C.

What does it actually mean?

So far a German-based business involved in distance selling of goods to French consumers through a web shop or Amazon had to remit the VAT to their home VAT authority in Germany. If the annual distance selling threshold of the above mentioned German company was above 35,000 euros, the company had to register with the relevant tax authority in France, get the VAT number and continue paying VAT in France. If the distance selling threshold was below 35,000 euros, the VAT was remitted in Germany. The same principle applied in Austria, as well as in Italy, Spain, Belgium, and other EU countries.

What changes will take place on 1 July 2021?

There will no longer exist an annual distance selling threshold of up to 35,000 euros for separate EU countries. Instead there will be a uniform distance selling threshold of up to 10,000 euros for all EU countries. This means that if a German-based business sells goods online to consumers in Austria for the value of up to 5,000 euros, in France for the value of up to 3,000 euros, in Italy and Spain for 1000 euros, it has to be VAT registered in each of these EU countries and consequently pay the VAT to each country as appropriate. In certain countries, there is an additional obligation to have an accountant. This makes the entire process even more complicated and expensive. A simple solution would be to register for the EU-OSS system. In this way a German-based company does not have to be VAT registered in every single EU country. This will enable a single VAT return in one place, in the One stop shop (OSS) system, quarterly. VAT has to be paid in each country where you are registered for One Stop Shop (OSS), according to the the COUNTRY OF DESTINATION principle.

Although at first glance it seems that the new legislation has been passed only to regulate the fair share of VAT between EU countries, it primarily protects the interests of the EU sellers. For a non EU-based company, which does not have a warehouse in one of the EU member states, Amazon/eBay/other online marketplaces is responsible for collecting and remitting VAT on the sale of the following goods from 1 July 2021:

1. Consignments with a value of up to 150 euros shipped into the EU;
2. Goods sold from a non-EU business seller when the goods are within the EU.

In any of these two cases, Amazon/eBay/other online marketplaces will charge the buyer the price with VAT at the rate applicable in the destination country at the time of payment and remit the VAT to the the relevant tax authority. The net price will be paid to the sales partner.

On 1 July 2021 the VAT exemption for imports of goods with a value of up to 22 euros will be abolished, when the goods are shipped from a non-EU country and sold to consumers in the EU. Therefore, Amazon/eBay/other online marketplaces will calculate, collect and remit VAT to the relevant tax authorities.

 

As you can see, the new challenges are ahead of us. What do you think of the One Stop Shop (OSS)?

 

Sources:

https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/business/vat/oss_en

https://www.macintyrehudson.co.uk/publications/article/VAT-changes-to-sales-to-eu-customers-from-july-2021