Frequently asked questions

What is tub?

Tub is short for 'trade under bond'. We are an interactive trading platform where members can trade under bond alcoholic stock from other traders within the industry.


Is tub free?

Joining and using tub is completely free..


To establish a base of premium traders and ensure future development, we have introduced an optional subscription based model to run in parallel with our free offering. Full details of our pricing can be found here.


Can I cancel my subscription?

You may cancel your Premium Membership at any time by following the steps outlined in our terms and conditions.


How do I reset my password?

The password reset function can be found by clicking the ‘login’ link in the main navigation. Once the login modal window launches, click the ‘Forgot your password?’ link.


What does it mean when beers, wines and spirits are in bond?

Beers, wines and spirits 'in bond' have not yet had the Duty and VAT paid on them. They must be stored in a bonded warehouse approved by the authorities of the country the bond is located in (ie. HM Customs & Excise in the UK).


What beers, wines and spirits can I buy in bond?

95% (but not all) of beers, wines and spirits can be purchased in bond. They are not available for delivery or consumption within the EU (Duty and VAT must be paid before delivery can take place). i.e. in Bond purchases exclude Duty and VAT. If/when you choose to have the beers, wines and spirits delivered (anywhere in the EU) these taxes become payable (at country rates of taxable supply).


What are the advantages of buying 'in Bond'?

  • The Duty and VAT is deferred. Should you choose to sell on (in bond) at a later date, you will never pay Duty and VAT.
  • If you choose to have the goods delivered at a later date, the VAT is payable on the original sale price and NOT its current market value.
  • Beers, wines and spirits stored in bond are much more attractive to prospective buyers and brokers. Merchants or brokers will usually give you the same price whether or not the wine is duty and VAT paid. Therefore if you sell your wine in bond, you will save the equivalent VAT and duty charges.
  • Traceability and Provenance - beers, wines and spirits stored in bond are much easier to trace (there are a limited number of bonded warehouses). Therefore, there is a better chance that beers, wines and spirits have been stored correctly.

What is an escrow account

Tubs main objective is to facilitate leads, we do however advise trading under escrow when deals have been negotiated. An escrow account can be used in the sale of bonded goods. If there are conditions to be met, the buyer and seller may agree to use escrow.


In this case, the buyer of the goods will deposit the payment amount in an escrow account held by a third party. This assures the seller that the buyer is capable of making payment and all conditions can be met. Once all of the conditions to the sale are satisfied, the escrow transfers the payment to the seller.