Trade registration for vending machines

Trade registration is the formal act by which a vending machine operator reports the start of its business activity to the responsible trade office. It is the legal prerequisite for running a vending business.

Function and area of use

In Germany, anyone who operates vending machines on a permanent basis with the intention of making a profit must register a trade. The registration must describe the type of activity precisely (e.g. “installation and operation of merchandise vending machines”). Registration takes place at the company’s head office; the individual vending machine locations usually do not have to be registered separately as business premises.

After registration, the trade office automatically informs the tax office, the Chamber of Industry and Commerce and, where applicable, the employers’ liability insurance association. For founders starting a vending business, this is the official starting signal.

Important: if food is sold, notification to the responsible food inspection authority is also required. This is often done at the same time as the trade registration.

Advantages

• Legal basis for the commercial sale of goods
• Receipt of a tax number and entitlement to deduct input VAT
• Proof of business activity towards landlords
• Prerequisite for concluding B2B contracts and leasing
• Access to wholesale terms for purchasing goods
• Legal certainty towards authorities and offices
• Easier opening of a business account

Technical details

Depending on the municipality, registration costs between €20 and €65. An identity card and, where applicable, an extract from the commercial register (for a GmbH) are required.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to register a separate trade for each vending machine?

No. One trade registration covers any number of vending machines, as long as they are operated under the same company.

Is a small business enough to start with?

Yes. At the start, the German small business scheme often makes sense, provided revenue stays below €22,000 per year. Get tax advice on this.

Related terms

• Vending machine installation permit
• Vending machine insurance
• Vending operator
• Vending machine price
• Vending machine franchise

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