Ordered something from the UK for my work, I don't pay VAT tax right?

[applecrisp]

I ordered something for work from a company in the UK. I just want to double check, since I'm ordering from outside the UK, I don't believe I pay a VAT tax, right?

The item that I ordered was sent to my electronically, nothing was actually shipped.

The invoice had a VAT tax on it, but I think it was done by error (assuming I'm right) -- since almost all of their business is within the UK.

Also, it is for 750 GBP -- I am thinking the best way to pay is by my credit card (assuming they take credit cards), rather than doing a money transfer thru my bank since I think they charge $50 for money transfer.

Assuming they take credit cards, does paying by credit card give me the best rate? Is that the best way to do it?

Thank you!

[whocares]

Hi,
I think you are correct about the VAT. As for using a credit card, you might want to check with the issuer if you use more than one card - most card issuers apply a service charge on foreign currency transaction that runs from 2 - 3% of the purchase price. I check to see which of my cards charges the least and then use it. I have also used my debit card because there is no additional service fee. Wikipedia has a discussion about this that is informative -
http://www.flyerguide.com/wiki/index.php/Credit/Debit/ATM_Cards_and_Foreign_Exchange