Legal context of agent buying in the UK

Using a purchasing agent to buy goods from overseas is a common approach for UK buyers, especially when dealing with non-UK marketplaces.
However, this buying method follows a different legal structure compared with purchasing directly from a UK retailer.

This page explains how agent-based purchasing is generally viewed in the UK and what buyers should be aware of before placing an order.

📄 How purchasing agents are generally classified

In the UK, purchasing agents are typically considered intermediaries, not sellers.

They usually:

• Act on instructions provided by the buyer

• Place orders on the buyer’s behalf

• Assist with logistics such as storage and shipping

They do not normally own the products or offer them as retail stock.

⚠️ Buyer responsibility under agent-based purchasing

–Decision-making remains with the buyer

UK buyers are responsible for choosing:

• Which products to purchase

• What specifications or variants are required

• Whether the item is suitable for import into the UK

The agent follows instructions rather than making purchasing decisions.

–Legal compliance and import awareness

Buyers are expected to understand:

• UK import rules and restrictions

• Whether a product may be subject to customs checks

• Potential taxes or duties

Using an agent does not transfer legal responsibility away from the buyer.

⚠️ Consumer protection considerations

–Differences from UK retail protections

When buying through an overseas agent, standard UK consumer protections may not apply in the same way as they do with UK-based retailers.

This is why agent services should be treated as assistance tools, not traditional shops.