eCommerce
Specialist eCommerce Accountants In Manchester
These days, there aren’t many businesses that don’t trade online in one way or another, whether it’s a nice-to-have additional revenue stream, business growth, or at the very heart of the business model.
We’ve been eCommerce accountants for firms in Greater Manchester and across the North West of England for almost as long as the internet has been around.
Whether it’s physical products, brick and mortar business front, digital-only goods such as eBooks and games, or online services, those who work with us benefit from support with all the core accounting functions and smart business advice.
For example, personal, partnership and corporation tax returns can get complicated when you take into account that for some selling online is a side hustle, while for others it’s a 24/7 full-time business operating online store across multiple territories.
With advice on how to structure your e-commerce business and strategic tax planning, we’ll help you achieve effortless compliance with HMRC rules while also keeping your tax bill down to sensible levels.
Accounting for online retail businesses
When you mention eCommerce to most people, they think of online retail or ecommerce store and that is indeed the sector in which many of our clients operate.
Some sell directly through their own bespoke online stores while others leverage the reach and efficiency of auction websites such as eBay or sales platforms like Amazon, Shopify or Etsy.
However big or small your online business, we can reduce the burden of bookkeeping, reporting and VAT. Whether as a limited company or a sole trader we can help.
And if you’ve got a warehouse or distribution team of your own, we can handle payroll, too.
Difference Between Traditional and Ecommerce Accounting
The difference between traditional accountants and ecommerce accounting lies in the complexity of online transactions, sales tax obligations across different jurisdictions, and the handling of digital payments.
Traditional accounting often deals with more straightforward, less fragmented revenue streams. In contrast, ecommerce accounting involves understanding and managing a multitude of electronic transactions, each with its tax considerations and financial implications.
Ecommerce experts
Xero for ecommerce
Dropshipping VAT advice
Accounts and tax returns
Start your next chapter with us
Serving Manchester and beyond since 1984, our expert team at James Scott is here to help you navigate your financial journey with confidence.
Accounting for Dropshippers
We also work with online sellers who have built their online business around dropshipping – fulfilling orders to buyers directly from overseas e-commerce stores such as AliExpress, or by online selling, straight from manufacturers in China, India or elsewhere.
In particular, we help them with tax efficiency, avoid costly VAT calculation errors and interpret government rules around ‘place of supply’ to make sure everything is above board and compliant.
If your business is built around the ‘fulfilled by Amazon’ (FBA) model, we can help you produce reliable, regular financial reports that will make sure your tax return isn’t a chore.
If your business sells direct to consumers in the EU (B2C) we can untangle the complications around European VAT (sales tax) regulations.
Why Choose a Specialist Ecommerce Accountant?
We understand that ecommerce businesses face distinct financial challenges and opportunities. By choosing a specialist ecommerce accountant, you benefit from personalised services tailored to the online marketplace.
'Never let us down'
“Without the help of James Scott Accountants we would not be in this building right now and certainly would not be looking at expansion. They were invaluable during a difficult time a few years ago and have since helped us on a day to day basis to know manage and account for our finances. Brendan and all of the staff at James Scott Accountants are extremely friendly and professional and never let us down.”
Simon Weldon
Domain Care North West Limited
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The Impact Ecommerce Accounting Services
Our experience directly translates to measurable benefits for our ecommerce clients. Having honed our expertise almost as long as the internet has been around, we’re proficient in harnessing the power of cloud-based online accounting through platforms like Xero.
Our team’s cumulative experience means we focus on not just compliance and tax audit, but also on delivering comprehensive value to your business’s financial health. We thrive on empowering ecommerce businesses to flourish with our expert support and deep understanding of the online retail environment.
eCommerce accounting software
When you’re doing business online, it only makes sense to do your accounting online, too.
We love cloud accounting software and specialise in working with Xero which integrates really neatly with Amazon Seller Central.
It’s also easy to plug in data from eBay and other sales platforms so you can always get an instant readout of your cashflow position by sales platform, either using built-in functions or with third party add-ons.
For example, A2X is the leading accounting solution for e-commerce sellers. It posts your Amazon and Shopify sales and fees directly into Xero in tidy summaries that match the payments to your business bank account, giving you financials you can be confident are 100% accurate.
With additional plugins, which we’ll help you choose and set up, you can even sync inventory between Amazon and Xero. Reach out to one of our dedicated team of specialist eCommerce accountants today.
Our services
Accounting services
We prepare accounts, tax returns, and financial statements to ensure compliance and provide a clear view of your business.
Bookkeeping
Streamlined bookkeeping services to manage daily financial records, ensuring accuracy and keeping your finances organised.
Business planning
Tailored guidance to help you establish realistic objectives, develop strategic plans, and achieve sustainable growth for your business.
Business startup
Expert guidance on company formation, structure, and financial planning to get your new venture off to a successful start.
Management accounts
Support managing your finances with tailored reports, insights, and advice to drive informed decision-making.
Payroll
Reliable, compliant payroll services, ensuring that your team gets paid on time while staying up to date with HMRC regulations.
R&D tax
Maximise your R&D tax relief claims with expert advice from James Scott, ensuring you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.
Self assessment
We provide hassle-free self assessment services to simplify tax return submissions, ensuring accuracy and avoiding costly penalties.
Tax planning
Strategic tax planning to optimise your liabilities, reduce tax burdens, and ensure compliance with changing tax laws.
VAT
Comprehensive VAT services, from registration to returns, ensuring compliance while maximising efficiency and savings.
Virtual FD
Our virtual finance director services provide strategic financial insight and support, helping drive business growth without the overheads.
Online accounting
Cloud-based accounting solutions for real-time financial data access, enhancing efficiency and informed decision-making.
Finance and funding
We partner with Swoop Funding to offer tailored finance solutions, guiding businesses through funding options and cost-saving opportunities.
Client success stories
We want to help your business
We welcome clients of all business sizes and states of health, and it is our pleasure to work with you, to make a difference.
