Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Find quick answers to your most pressing questions regarding spare parts sourcing, quality distinctions (OEM vs. Aftermarket), ordering process, and our commitment to logistics and compliance.
Quick Jump by Category
1. Spare Part Basics
1. What is a spare part?
A spare part is a component, or a set of components, kept in inventory to be used for the repair, maintenance, or replacement of failing units in equipment. For port equipment, this could be anything from a simple filter to a complete transmission.
2. What is the difference between an OEM part and an aftermarket part?
This is the most critical distinction. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by or for the original component's manufacturer. Aftermarket parts are made by a third-party company. OEM guarantees a perfect match, while high-quality aftermarket parts can offer significant savings. Our expertise lies in identifying which aftermarket parts offer reliable, proven performance without compromising safety or efficiency.
3. What does "OEM" stand for?
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. This is the company that originally built the component.
4. Are aftermarket parts as good as OEM parts?
It entirely depends on the part and the manufacturer. Many high-end aftermarket suppliers are the exact same factories that supply the OEMs. The danger is in low-quality, unvetted parts. We protect our clients by sourcing only from proven, high-quality aftermarket suppliers whose parts we trust and can stand behind.
5. What is a "genuine" spare part?
It's a component supplied by the original equipment manufacturer, often in branded packaging, guaranteeing it's the same part that was on the machine when it was new. A "genuine" part is a part sold from the equipment manufacturer, often the manufacturer of the parts is not the same which manufacture the equipment, then it my differ for the OEM, but the parts will be the same, only different packing.
6. What does a "remanufactured" or "refurbished" part mean?
These terms are not the same. Refurbished usually means the part was cleaned, inspected, and repaired if faulty. Remanufactured ("Reman") is a much more comprehensive industrial process where the unit is completely disassembled, cleaned, all worn or failing components are replaced with new ones, and then it is reassembled and tested to meet or exceed new OEM specifications.
7. Is a "reconditioned" part the same as "remanufactured"?
No. "Reconditioned" is a synonym for "refurbished" or "repaired." It is a used part that has been serviced to be functional again. "Remanufactured" implies a complete industrial overhaul to a "like-new" condition, which is a much higher standard and typically includes a warranty.
8. Is there a warranty on remanufactured parts?
Yes, absolutely. Reputable remanufactured components (like engines, transmissions, or axles) almost always come with a comprehensive warranty from the rebuilder, often comparable to the warranty on a new part, providing both cost savings and peace of mind.
9. What is an "equivalent" or "pattern" part?
These are alternative terms for an "aftermarket" part. They are parts designed to fit and function in the same way as the OEM original but are produced by a different company.
10. What are "consumable" parts?
Consumables are parts that are designed to be used up and replaced regularly during routine maintenance. The most common examples are filters (oil, air, fuel, hydraulic), lubricants, o-rings, and certain types of bearings or wear pads.
11. What is a "critical spare part"?
A critical spare part is a component whose failure causes an immediate and total shutdown of the equipment, leading to high downtime costs. Identifying and strategically stocking these parts (or having a supplier who can get them fast) is crucial for port operations. Examples include a main hydraulic pump, an engine ECU, or a spreader component.
12. What does "obsolete part" mean?
An obsolete part is a component that is no longer produced or supported by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). This is common with older equipment. This is our specialty. With our deep network, especially in Italy, we excel at sourcing obsolete parts for legacy brands like Belotti, Fantuzzi, and Reggiane, keeping valuable machines running.
2. Identifying the Correct Part
13. How do I find the correct part number for my machine?
The most reliable way is to consult the Parts Manual for your specific machine. If you don't have one, the part number may be stamped or tagged on the part itself. The next best step is to provide us with the machine's full model and serial number.
14. Where can I find the serial number on my equipment?
The serial number is usually on a data plate or chassis plate located on the machine's main frame, often in or near the operator's cabin. It is the single most important piece of information for identifying correct parts.
15. Why is the machine's serial number so important?
The serial number is the machine's unique "fingerprint." Manufacturers often make small changes to parts during a production run (e.g., "all machines before serial #XXXXX use part A, all machines after use part B"). The serial number is the only way for us to guarantee we are quoting the 100% correct component for your specific machine.
16. What information do I need to provide to get the right part?
To give you a fast, accurate quote, please provide:
- Machine Brand (e.g., Fantuzzi)
- Machine Model (e.g., FDC45)
- Machine Serial Number
- The Part Number (if you have it)
- Description of the part and quantity needed.
17. Can I identify a part with just a photo?
A photo is extremely helpful, especially if you don't have a part number! Please send us clear photos from several angles, along with any visible markings or numbers, and include the machine's model and serial number. Our experts can often identify the part from this information.
18. What if I don't have the part number or serial number?
It becomes more difficult, but not impossible. Contact us. Our technical team may be able to identify the component based on detailed photos, dimensions, and a clear description of where the part is located and what it does. This is where our decades of experience become invaluable.
19. Do you have parts manuals or technical diagrams?
While we don't distribute full OEM parts manuals (as they are proprietary), our technical team uses extensive documentation and databases to identify the parts you need. If you are struggling to identify a part, describe it to us, and we will find it in the diagrams for you.
20. How can I be sure I'm ordering the correct part?
The best way is to provide us with the p/n. Our team will use this to cross-reference the part number and if possible, will verify that it is the correct component for your specific machine build, removing any guesswork for you.
21. What's the difference between a machine serial number and an engine serial number?
They are two different numbers. The machine serial number (from Kalmar, CVS, etc.) identifies the entire piece of equipment. The engine serial number (from Volvo, Cummins, Scania, etc.) identifies only the engine. If you need an engine part, the engine serial number is best. For any other part, we need the machine serial number.
22. Do parts change based on the machine's year of manufacture?
Yes, frequently. This is why the serial number is more reliable than the year. A machine "built" in one year might use parts from the previous year's design or be part of a mid-year update. The serial number tells us the exact build specification.
23. I have the old part; can you identify it if I send it to you?
In many cases, yes. If all other methods fail, receiving the physical sample allows us to measure it, check for markings, and match it against our database and supplier network. Please contact us first to coordinate this.
24. What does "L/H" (Left Hand) or "R/H" (Right Hand) mean for parts?
This refers to the side of the machine the part is for, as viewed from the **operator's seat facing forward**. L/H is the operator's left, and R/H is the operator's right. This is crucial for parts like axle components, doors, or mirrors.
25. Are parts for different models of equipment interchangeable?
Sometimes, but it is not recommended to assume so. Manufacturers often use the same base components (e.g., an axle or a transmission) across multiple models. However, small differences in fittings, gearing, or software programming can exist. Always check compatibility using the part number and serial number.
3. Ordering and Quoting
26. How do I request a quote (RFQ) for a spare part?
The simplest way is to send us an email at info@hitsrl.it or info@hitsrl.com with all the information you have: machine model, serial number, part number, and description. You can also use the contact form on our website.
27. What information is required to get an accurate quote?
The more information, the better! The "perfect" RFQ includes the machine's serial number, the part number, and the quantity. If you don't have the part number, a good description and photos are the next best thing.
28. How long does it take to receive a quote?
We pride ourselves on speed. For common items and parts in our database, we aim to respond within a few hours. For hard-to-find or obsolete parts that require deeper investigation, it may take 24-48 hours as we are actively contacting our global network on your behalf.
29. How long is my quote valid for?
Due to market fluctuations in raw materials and shipping costs, our quotes are typically valid for 30 days, unless stated otherwise. For items with high price volatility, the validity period may be shorter.
30. What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?
For most standard parts, we have **no minimum order quantity**. You can order a single O-ring or a complete engine. If a specific part *does* have a manufacturer-imposed MOQ (e.g., must be bought in a pack of 5), we will clearly state this in your quote.
31. How do I place an order after receiving a quote?
Simply reply to the quote email with a formal Purchase Order (PO) from your company. Your PO should include the quote number, part numbers, quantities, pricing, billing address, and shipping address. This confirms all details are correct.
32. What payment methods do you accept?
We accept standard bank/wire transfers (T/T) or Credit Card. Sometimes L/C or CAD. For established clients, we can discuss credit terms. All payment details will be provided on our pro-forma invoice.
33. Do you offer credit terms or business accounts?
Yes, we can offer credit terms to returning customers who pass a standard credit application process. Please contact our sales team to discuss your needs.
34. Can I add items to an order that has already been placed?
If the order has not yet been shipped, we can almost always add items to it. Please contact us immediately, and we will update the order. This can help save on shipping costs.
35. Can I cancel a spare part order?
It depends on the part and the order status. If it's a standard stock item that hasn't shipped, it's often possible. However, if it's a "special order" item (e.g., an obsolete part sourced specifically for you, or a non-returnable item from the OEM), it generally cannot be cancelled once we have placed the order with our supplier.
36. Are there discounts for bulk orders?
Yes. If you are ordering large quantities of a single part or placing a large-value order for a machine overhaul, please let us know. We will work with our suppliers to provide the most competitive pricing possible.
37. Do your prices include taxes or VAT?
Our quotes are typically provided on an EXW (Ex Works) basis and do not include VAT (for Italian/EU clients) or import duties/taxes (for international clients). VAT will be applied to EU sales as required by law. International clients are responsible for their own local import duties.
38. What currency do you accept for payment?
We typically trade in Euros (EUR). All invoices will be issued in Euros unless a different currency is explicitly agreed upon in your quote.
39. What are your standard terms and conditions of sale?
Our standard terms are provided with every quote. In general, sales are Ex Works (Incoterms 2020), with payment in advance via bank transfer, and are subject to our standard warranty and return policies.
40. What does "lead time" or “Availability” mean?
Lead time, or availability is the total time from when you place your order to when the part is ready to ship from our facility. "In stock" items have a 1-working day lead time. Other items may have a lead time of "5-7 working days" while we procure them from our supplier.
4. Shipping and Delivery
41. Where do you ship to?
We ship globally. We are experts in logistics and can arrange fast, reliable shipping to your port, job site, or warehouse, anywhere in the world.
42. Do you ship internationally?
Yes, international shipping is a daily part of our business. We can handle all necessary export documentation and work with major freight carriers to ensure your parts arrive safely and on time.
43. What are the typical shipping costs?
Shipping costs depend entirely on the size, weight, and destination of the package, as well as the service level (e.g., standard air, express courier, sea freight). We can provide you with an exact shipping quote when you place your order.
44. How long will delivery take for my parts?
This depends on lead time and shipping method.
- Lead Time: How long it takes us to get the part (1 day if in stock, 5-7 days if we must order it).
- Shipping Time: Once it ships, express courier (like DHL) can be 1-3 days to Europe/North America, while standard air freight might be 5-10 days. Sea freight for very large items takes several weeks.
45. What shipping carriers do you use?
We work with all major international couriers, including DHL, FedEx, UPS, and TNT, as well as numerous trusted air and sea freight forwarders. We select the best carrier for your specific needs and destination.
46. Can I use my own shipping account or freight forwarder?
Yes, absolutely. We are happy to prepare your order for collection on an Ex Works (EXW) basis. Just let us know you want to "collect" and provide your forwarder's details.
47. Do you offer expedited or express shipping options?
Yes. If your machine is down please tell us. We can arrange for the fastest possible express courier service to minimize your downtime.
48. How can I track my order?
Once your order has been dispatched, we will provide you with a tracking number and a link to the carrier's website so you can see the status of your delivery in real-time.
49. What are Incoterms (e.g., EXW, FOB, CIF) and which do you use?
Incoterms are standard international trade terms. Our default term is EXW (Ex Works), which means the price quoted is for the part ready for pickup at our facility. The buyer is responsible for shipping costs and risk. We can also quote other terms, like DAP (Delivered at Place), where we manage the shipping to your door (but you still handle import/customs).
50. Who is responsible for customs duties and import taxes?
The **buyer/importer** is responsible for all local customs duties, taxes (like VAT), and brokerage fees in their own country. We provide a commercial invoice with the correct value and part descriptions to make this process as smooth as possible.
51. What should I do if my order arrives damaged?
Do not accept the shipment if the package is visibly destroyed. If you find damage after opening, stop immediately. Take photos of the damaged box and the damaged part, and contact us **within 24 hours** of delivery so we can file a claim with the carrier and arrange a replacement.
52. What if my order is incomplete or I receive the wrong part?
While we have a rigorous multi-check process to prevent this, mistakes can occasionally happen. Please contact us immediately with your order details and a photo of what you received. We will apologize and work quickly to correct the mistake at no cost to you.
53. Do you ship oversized or very heavy parts?
Yes. We regularly ship very large and heavy components like transmissions, axles, and spreader components. We will arrange for an appropriate freight service (air freight or sea freight) and ensure the item is properly crated and secured for transit.
54. Can I pick up my order directly from your warehouse?
Yes. If you are local or have your own driver, you can select "Ex Works / Customer Collection" as your shipping method. We will notify you when your order is packed and ready for pickup.
55. What is the lead time for a part that is not currently in stock?
This will be clearly stated on your quote. A typical lead time for a part we must order from an OEM or supplier is 5-10 working days. For obsolete or hard-to-find items, it may be longer, but we will always inform you upfront.
5. Warranty and Returns
56. Do your spare parts come with a warranty?
Yes. All parts we supply are covered by a warranty. New OEM and high-quality aftermarket parts come with a **manufacturer's warranty**, which is typically 12 months. Remanufactured parts also come with their own rebuilder's warranty.
57. What is the standard warranty period?
The standard warranty period for a brand new parts is **12 months** from the date of shipment for new parts, covering defects in materials and workmanship. The specific warranty for your part will be confirmed on your quote.
58. What does the warranty cover?
The warranty covers **defects in the part itself**. It does not cover failure due to incorrect installation, improper use, lack of maintenance, or damage caused by other failing components.
59. How do I make a warranty claim?
If you believe a part has failed under warranty, please contact us immediately. We will require the original invoice number, the part number, the machine's serial number, and a detailed description (with photos/videos) of the failure. We will then coordinate the warranty process with the manufacturer.
60. What is your return policy for spare parts?
If you need to return a part, please contact us first for a **Return Material Authorization (RMA)** number. Parts must be returned unused, in their original, unopened packaging, and in resalable condition.
61. What if I ordered the wrong part? Can I return it?
Each case is different, we have to discuss case by case. Mainly: If it is a **standard stock item**, you can usually return it (subject to our return policy). However, if it is a **"special order" item** (an item we brought in specifically for you that we don't normally stock) or an **electrical component**, it is typically **non-returnable**. This is why we stress the importance of using the machine's serial number to confirm the correct part *before* ordering.
62. Are there restocking fees for returned parts?
If the return is due to our error, there are no fees. If the part was ordered incorrectly by the customer, a restocking fee (typically 30-40%) may be applied by the manufacturer, which we must pass on. This fee covers the administrative and handling costs of the return.
63. What is the process for returning a defective part?
Contact us to initiate a warranty claim. We will provide instructions for returning the part for inspection. Once the manufacturer confirms the defect, we will issue a credit or send a replacement unit.
64. How long does it take to get a refund or replacement?
For a simple return, a refund will be processed once the part is received and inspected at our warehouse. For a warranty claim, the process can take longer as the part must be inspected and approved by the manufacturer. We will do everything we can to expedite this.
65. Does using a non-OEM part void my machine's warranty?
This depends on your country's laws (e.g., the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act in the US). Generally, a manufacturer cannot void the *entire* machine's warranty just for using an aftermarket part. However, if that specific aftermarket part *fails* and *causes damage* to other components, the manufacturer is not responsible for repairing that damage.
6. Technical Support and Maintenance
66. Do you offer technical support for installation?
We offer technical support for **part identification**. We can help you find the part you need and provide any technical data we have. However, the installation of parts should be performed by a qualified and certified technician. We do not provide remote installation guidance for safety and liability reasons.
67. Can you provide installation instructions or manuals?
We do not write or provide separate installation instructions. Any instructions, data sheets, or diagrams provided by the manufacturer will be included with the part.
68. What should I do if a new part fails after installation?
Stop using the machine immediately and contact us to initiate a warranty claim. Please document the failure, including any error codes, photos, and a description from the technician who installed it.
69. Can you help me troubleshoot a problem with my equipment?
While we are not anymore a field service company, our team has decades of experience. If you describe your machine's problem, we can often help you narrow down the *potential* parts that might be causing the issue.
70. How do I know when to replace a part?
Follow the **preventive maintenance (PM) schedule** in your machine's operator manual. This will tell you the recommended service intervals for consumables like filters and oils. For other parts, replacement is usually done upon failure or when an inspection shows signs of wear, leaks, or damage.
71. What is a "preventive maintenance kit"?
A PM kit is a convenient, all-in-one package that includes all the filters, seals, and other consumables needed to perform a specific scheduled service (e.g., a 500-hour or 1000-hour service). We can assemble these kits for your machines.
72. Do you sell recommended maintenance schedules?
We don't sell the schedules themselves, but we strongly advise you to follow the one in your manufacturer's manual. We can, however, help you build a parts list based on your schedule and quote you for all the necessary PM components.
73. How should I store spare parts to keep them in good condition?
Store parts in a clean, dry, climate-controlled environment. Keep them in their original packaging to prevent contamination or damage. O-rings and rubber seals should be stored flat and away from direct sunlight (UV), which can make them brittle.
74. What are the common signs that a part is failing?
Listen to your machine. Common signs include:
- New or unusual noises: Grinding, squealing, or whining.
- Leaks: Hydraulic fluid, oil, or coolant.
- Performance loss: Slower operation, loss of power, or hesitation.
- Visual signs: Cracks, excessive wear, or corrosion.
- Warning lights or error codes in the cabin.
75. Do you offer on-site maintenance or repair services?
We are a specialized **parts supply and sourcing company**, not an on-site service provider. Our expertise is focused on getting you the *right part, on time, at the right price*. We can, however, partner with your existing maintenance team or local service company.
7. Specific Part Expertise
76. Do you specialize in parts for port equipment (reachstackers, container handlers)?
Yes, this is our core business. We are specialists in heavy-duty material handling and port equipment, including reachstackers, empty container handlers (ECH), terminal tractors, and heavy forklifts.
77. Do you supply parts for heavy-duty forklifts?
Absolutely. We supply a full range of parts for heavy-duty forklifts (10-ton capacity and up) from major brands, including parts for the engine, transmission, axle, hydraulics, and mast.
78. What about parts for mobile harbour cranes (MHC) or gantry cranes (RTG/STS)?
Yes. Many of the core components (engines, transmissions, hydraulic systems) in these large cranes are made by the same brands (Volvo, Cummins, Kessler, Dana) as the mobile equipment. We can source these components for you, as well as specialized crane parts.
79. What brands of equipment do you supply parts for?
We supply parts for all major European and American brands, including **Konecranes (and legacy brands like Fantuzzi, Belotti, Noell), Kalmar, CVS Ferrari, Terex, SMV, Hyster, and Taylor**, among others.
80. Can you source parts for older or discontinued models?
Yes. This is one of our greatest strengths. We have a vast network for sourcing parts for older, legacy, and discontinued models, especially for Italian brands like **Fantuzzi, Belotti, and Reggiane**. Don't scrap your old machine—ask us first.
81. I'm looking for obsolete parts for Fantuzzi / Belotti / CVS; can you help?
**Yes.** This is exactly what we do. Our company's roots and network in Italy give us a unique advantage in tracking down these hard-to-find, obsolete components that other suppliers can't find.
82. Do you supply engine parts (e.g., for Volvo, Cummins, Scania)?
Yes. We supply a complete range of engine parts, from full "long block" engines to individual components like turbos, injectors, water pumps, and gasket sets for all major industrial engine brands.
83. Do you supply transmission parts (e.g., for Clark, Dana, Allison, ZF)?
Yes. We are experts in drivetrain components. We can supply complete remanufactured transmissions, torque converters, or individual parts like solenoid packs, filter kits, and friction discs.
84. Do you supply axle parts (e.g., for Kessler, Rockwell, Meritor)?
Yes. We supply all parts for drive and steer axles, including complete axle assemblies, differential parts, gears, brake discs, calipers, and hub seals.
85. What kind of hydraulic components do you supply (pumps, motors, cylinders)?
We supply a full range of hydraulic components, including main pumps, gear pumps, steering units, hydraulic motors, and seal kits for hydraulic cylinders. We source from leading brands like Parker, Bosch Rexroth, and Danfoss.
86. Do you stock electrical parts (sensors, joysticks, controllers, switches)?
Yes. Electrical components are a major part of our inventory. We supply sensors (pressure, temperature, position), cabin joysticks, OEM controllers, safety relays, switches, and lighting.
87. Do you sell filters (air, oil, fuel, hydraulic)?
Yes. We supply a full range of high-quality OEM and aftermarket filters for all your equipment. We can provide all the filters you need for a complete machine service.
88. Can you supply parts for spreader systems (e.g., Bromma, Elme, Stinis)?
Yes. We can source a wide variety of spreader parts, including twist locks, sensors, guide rollers, and hydraulic/electrical components for all major spreader brands.
89. Do you offer used spare parts?
We primarily focus on new (OEM/aftermarket) and remanufactured parts, as they come with a warranty and guaranteed quality. We can, in some cases, source "used-repaired" or "used-functional" parts for very old or obsolete equipment if no other option exists.
90. What is your process for refurbishing equipment components?
We don't refurbish parts in-house. Instead, we have strategic partnerships with a network of world-class, ISO-certified **remanufacturing** facilities. We use them for major components like engines and transmissions to provide our clients with a "like-new" product with a full warranty.
8. Payments, VAT, and Compliance
91. Why should I buy spare parts from you?
Because we are not just a parts supplier; we are a **technical procurement partner**. You get:
- Expertise: We know the machines and the parts.
- Sourcing: We find the hard-to-find and obsolete parts.
- Value: We offer vetted, high-quality aftermarket and reman options to reduce your costs.
- Speed: We provide fast quotes and global logistics.
92. What makes you different from other parts suppliers?
Our **experience** and **network**. Unlike large, impersonal suppliers, our team has decades of hands-on knowledge. Our specific strength in sourcing obsolete parts for Italian legacy brands (Fantuzzi, Belotti) is unmatched, saving our clients from having to replace entire machines.
93. How extensive is your network of suppliers?
Our network is global, built over decades. It includes OEM manufacturers, high-end aftermarket producers, specialized remanufacturing plants, and niche suppliers across Europe, North America, and Asia. This network allows us to find virtually any part.
94. Can you source hard-to-find parts?
**Yes. This is our primary value.** Many companies can sell you a filter. We thrive on the "difficult" requests. When your OEM tells you a part is "no longer available," that is when you should call us.
95. Are you an authorized dealer for any brands?
We are an **independent specialist supplier**. This is a key advantage for you. It means we are not locked into selling you only one brand. We are free to source the best possible solution for your needs, whether that is an OEM part, a high-quality aftermarket alternative, or a remanufactured component.
96. What is your experience in the port equipment industry?
Our team's experience is measured in decades, not years. We have a deep, practical understanding of the high-pressure environment of port and terminal operations and what it takes to keep equipment running.
97. Can you help me reduce my maintenance costs?
Absolutely. We do this in two ways:
- By sourcing high-quality aftermarket and remanufactured parts, which offer significant savings over unjustified prices.
- By reducing your machine downtime through fast sourcing of critical and obsolete parts.
98. Do you have a quality control process for your parts?
Yes. Our quality control starts with **supplier vetting**. We do not buy from unknown or unproven sources. All incoming parts are visually inspected for correctness, and we only partner with suppliers who have their own robust, often ISO 9001-certified, quality control systems.
99. Can you manage my spare parts inventory for me?
While we don't manage your on-site physical inventory, we can work with your maintenance planners to build a "critical spares" list and offer consignment or stocking agreements for your most-used parts, ensuring they are always available.
100. Who is my main point of contact for an inquiry?
Your main point of contact is our **expert technical sales team**. You can reach them directly at **info@hitsrl.com** or **info@hitsrl.it** or by phone. Every inquiry is handled by a knowledgeable professional, not just a call center.
101. What payment methods do you accept?
Our standard and preferred payment method for international orders is **Bank Wire Transfer (T/T)** or Credit card. It is the fastest and most secure method. For large-value orders, we can also discuss other formal trade payment structures, such as:
- Letter of Credit (L/C): We may accept an Irrevocable Letter of Credit confirmed by a prime Italian bank. This must be negotiated and agreed upon before order confirmation.
- Cash Against Documents (CAD): This payment term may be available for established clients and must be pre-approved by our finance department.
102. Can I pay in cash (e.g., by visiting your office)?
No, for significant amounts. As an Italian-registered company, we are bound by strict Italian and EU anti-money laundering regulations (specifically, Decreto Legislativo n. 231/2007). This legislation places a firm legal limit on the amount that can be paid in physical cash for a single transaction. Therefore, all substantial business payments must be made through traceable electronic methods, such as a bank transfer.
103. Can you declare a lower value on my invoice to help me save on import duties?
No, absolutely not. This is non-negotiable. As a fully compliant Italian company (Srl), we are legally and ethically bound to report the true, accurate value of all goods sold. Falsifying invoices ("false fatturazioni") is a serious criminal offense in Italy under tax and commercial law (e.g., D.Lgs. 74/2000). We operate with full transparency and will not participate in any action that violates Italian or international law.
104. I am an Italian company. How is VAT (IVA) handled?
For all sales billed and shipped within Italy, we are legally required to apply Italian VAT (IVA - Imposta sul Valore Aggiunto) at the standard rate ("aliquota ordinaria") in accordance with Italian tax law, primarily D.P.R. 633/1972. The VAT will be clearly itemized on your fattura elettronica.
105. I am a business in another EU country (e.g., Germany, France). Do I pay Italian VAT?
No. For B2B sales to other EU countries, the transaction is considered a non-taxable intra-Community supply (as per Art. 41 del D.L. 331/1993). To qualify for this VAT exemption, you must provide us with a valid VAT number registered in the European VIES database. We are legally required to verify this number before issuing a non-taxable invoice. The VAT is then handled by you in your country via the "reverse charge" mechanism.
106. I am outside the European Union (e.g., UK, Asia, Africa). Do I pay Italian VAT?
No. Transactions for goods exported directly outside the European Union are non-taxable ("non imponibile") for Italian VAT, as defined by Art. 8 del D.P.R. 633/1972. This VAT exemption is strictly conditional: we must prove the goods have permanently left the EU. This is done by processing a formal export customs declaration (generating an MRN document) that must be cleared through the Italian Customs Agency (Agenzia delle Dogane). We cannot release goods for export without this mandatory customs process.