Modification of the VAT Criteria on the Location of Storage Services in Refrigerated Warehouses
Through binding consultation V2180-24, issued by the Sub-Directorate General of Consumption Taxes on October 11, 2024, a significant change has been introduced regarding the location, for Value Added Tax (VAT) purposes, of storage services in refrigerated warehouses. This modification establishes a new criterion concerning the place of supply for services related to immovable property for VAT purposes.
The consulting entity provides storage services in properties designed to maintain controlled temperature conditions. These services are aimed at entrepreneurs or professionals established in several European Union countries. It is noteworthy that, in most cases, these services do not involve the allocation of an exclusive space within the refrigerated warehouses to customers. Instead, stored goods share the space with those of other clients.
Previously, the criterion for locating services related to immovable property established their location at the place where the property was situated, in accordance with Article 70.1.1 of Law 37/1992. This criterion was supported by consultations such as V1913-12 and others, emphasizing the connection with the property, particularly in services dependent on specific facilities like refrigerated warehouses.
However, the interpretation changed following the ruling of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) in case C-215/19. In this case, it was concluded that, although these services involve are essential provisions for the maintenance of the stored goods, they cannot be considered linked to immovable property, as customers do not have an exclusive right of use over any specific part of the property. This criterion, reflected in consultations such as V0373-19, establishes that, in the absence of exclusivity, storage services should be classified as general services and follow the general rule of Article 69.1 of Law 37/1992. According to this rule, the place of localization will be where the client, a business or professional, has their place of economic activity or permanent establishment.
The adoption of this criterion brings clarity and uniformity in the application of VAT, particularly in the international context, by aligning with EU regulations. Additionally, it reduces the tax burden for foreign customers contracting storage services in Spain without exclusive space allocation. This measure simplifies operations for international clients without an establishment in the country.
For further information please contact us at info@diligens.es
