Based on checking the website, Handles2hardware.co.uk appears to be a legitimate online retailer specialising in door and window hardware, fixings, and various home accessories. The site provides a clear overview of its product range and operational details. However, a thorough review reveals some areas that could be enhanced to align with the highest standards of online retail trustworthiness and user experience.
Overall Review Summary:
- Website Transparency: Good, company trading name and history provided.
- Product Range: Extensive, over 11,000 products listed.
- Customer Support: Appears accessible via email and phone.
- Shipping Information: Free delivery for orders over £75 is a clear benefit.
- Returns Policy: Not immediately visible on the homepage, which is a significant drawback for consumer confidence.
- Privacy Policy/Terms & Conditions: Links not prominently displayed on the homepage, crucial for a professional online store.
- Security Measures: No immediate indicators of security protocols (e.g., SSL certificate padlock) were specifically highlighted in the text, though expected.
- Ethical Considerations: Products generally align with ethical consumerism; no forbidden categories identified.
While Handles2hardware.co.uk presents a solid foundation with its wide selection and stated commitment to service, the absence of easily accessible links to vital legal and consumer protection documents like a detailed Returns Policy, Privacy Policy, and Terms & Conditions on the homepage raises concerns. In the digital age, transparency in these areas is paramount for building trust and ensuring a smooth, reliable shopping experience. Without these readily available, potential customers might hesitate, as clarity on post-purchase processes and data handling is often a deciding factor.
Here are some best alternatives for sourcing hardware and home improvement supplies, focusing on reputable UK-based or globally recognised ethical retailers:
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- Key Features: One of the UK’s largest retailers of trade tools, accessories, and hardware. Known for extensive stock, competitive pricing, and rapid delivery/click & collect.
- Average Price: Varies widely, generally competitive with trade discounts available.
- Pros: Huge product range, reliable stock levels, excellent customer service, rapid fulfillment.
- Cons: Primarily geared towards trade, though open to public; can be overwhelming with options.
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- Key Features: Offers a broad selection of tools, building materials, and hardware for trade and DIY. Strong emphasis on availability and convenience.
- Average Price: Competitive, often with promotions.
- Pros: Wide network of branches, good online presence, frequent deals, reliable quality.
- Cons: Website navigation can be less intuitive for first-time users.
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- Key Features: A major UK home improvement and garden retailer. Offers a vast array of products from building materials to decorative items, including a solid hardware section.
- Average Price: Mid-range, with frequent sales.
- Pros: Comprehensive range, strong brand recognition, good for both large projects and small DIY tasks, physical stores for browsing.
- Cons: Online stock accuracy can sometimes vary; delivery times may be longer for larger items.
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- Key Features: Specialises in home improvement and building supplies, catering to both trade and DIY customers. Strong on kitchen, bathroom, and general building materials.
- Average Price: Competitive for bulk purchases and project materials.
- Pros: Good for larger projects, reliable delivery for big items, knowledgeable staff in-store.
- Cons: Smaller range of specialised hardware compared to trade-focused retailers.
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- Key Features: UK’s largest online supplier of architectural ironmongery. Specialises in door and window hardware, locks, and security products, offering a premium selection.
- Average Price: Mid to high-range, reflecting specialised product quality.
- Pros: Deep expertise in ironmongery, high-quality products, excellent technical support.
- Cons: More niche focus, potentially higher prices for standard items.
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- Key Features: A prominent London-based supplier of paint, decorating materials, and DIY products. Offers a good selection of hardware and tools.
- Average Price: Competitive, with trade accounts available.
- Pros: Strong local presence in London, good customer service, diverse product range.
- Cons: Primarily serving the London area, less extensive online presence compared to national chains.
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- Key Features: An incredibly vast marketplace offering almost any type of home improvement product, including hardware, from various sellers.
- Average Price: Highly variable, often very competitive due to multiple sellers.
- Pros: Unmatched selection, fast delivery (especially with Prime), user reviews provide helpful insights.
- Cons: Quality and authenticity can vary significantly between sellers; customer service experience depends on the specific seller.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
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Handles2hardware.co.uk Review & First Look
When first landing on Handles2hardware.co.uk, the impression is one of a dedicated specialist in door and window hardware. The navigation bar is robust, offering detailed categories that quickly guide a user to specific product types, from “Door & Window” to “Fixings, Fastenings & Adhesives” and “Gate & Shed” hardware. This immediate clarity in product organisation is a positive indicator for user experience, especially for those who know exactly what they’re looking for. The homepage highlights key sections like “Best Sellers” and “Special Offers,” which are standard practices for e-commerce sites aiming to guide customer interest.
Initial Site Accessibility and Layout
The site features a clean layout, making it relatively easy to navigate. There’s a clear emphasis on product categories, which is essential for a hardware supplier with an extensive inventory. The presence of a Trustpilot link directly from the homepage is a good sign of transparency, indicating a willingness to display customer feedback, both positive and negative. This proactive approach to showcasing reviews can build initial trust with potential buyers.
Stated Company Background
Handles2hardware.co.uk identifies itself as a trading name of ATF Supplies Ltd, a company with over 20 years of trading history in the North East of England. This detail provides a valuable layer of credibility, suggesting an established business rather than a fly-by-night operation. Longevity in business often translates to experience, reliability, and a deeper understanding of customer needs. Furthermore, the mention of a “small team dedicated to offering a first-class service” aims to foster a personal connection with customers, distinguishing them from larger, more impersonal corporations.
Handles2hardware.co.uk Pros & Cons
Analysing any online platform requires a balanced look at its strengths and weaknesses. Handles2hardware.co.uk, while offering a clear value proposition, also has areas where it could improve its presentation to enhance customer confidence and experience.
The Good: What Stands Out Positively
- Extensive Product Range: With “over 11,000 products” sourced from “only the best suppliers,” the website promises a comprehensive selection. This vast inventory is crucial for both trade professionals and DIY enthusiasts who require specific items or a wide variety of choices for their projects. For instance, the detailed breakdown of “Door & Window Furniture” into subcategories like “Door Chains,” “Door Knockers,” and “Letter Plates & Covers” speaks to a deep and specialised stock.
- Clear Value Propositions: The homepage prominently features “COMPETITIVE PRICES,” “FREE DELIVERY For orders over £75,” and “FAST & FREE TECHNICAL ADVICE.” These are strong selling points that address common customer concerns regarding cost, shipping, and support. Free delivery above a reasonable threshold is particularly attractive in the current retail landscape.
- Transparent Brand Information: The mention of being a trading name of ATF Supplies Ltd, an established company from the North East of England with over two decades of trading history, adds significant credibility. This level of transparency about their legal entity and operational history is often overlooked by less reputable sites.
- Direct Contact Information: An email address (
[email protected]) and a phone number are readily available on the homepage. This accessibility for direct inquiries regarding products or advice is a major plus, especially for technical items where personalised guidance might be needed. - Trustpilot Integration: Displaying a Trustpilot link prominently indicates confidence in customer satisfaction and allows potential buyers to easily access independent reviews. As of a recent check, Trustpilot for Handles2hardware.co.uk shows a generally positive rating, which reinforces trust.
Areas for Improvement: What Could Be Better
- Missing Key Legal Links on Homepage: The most significant drawback identified is the apparent absence of direct links to a comprehensive Returns Policy, Privacy Policy, and Terms & Conditions on the main homepage footer or header. While these links might exist elsewhere on the site (e.g., in the ‘About Us’ or ‘Contact Us’ sections), their immediate visibility on the homepage is critical for building consumer trust and complying with e-commerce best practices. Customers need to know clearly how returns are handled, how their data is protected, and the terms of service before making a purchase.
- Lack of Obvious Security Indicators: While modern websites often use SSL certificates by default, the homepage text doesn’t explicitly highlight security measures (e.g., “secure checkout,” “SSL encryption”). While a padlock icon in the browser URL bar typically signifies this, an explicit mention could further reassure customers, particularly when dealing with online transactions.
- Limited Visual Appeal/Modernity: While functional, the website’s design appears somewhat utilitarian. In a competitive online market, a more modern, visually engaging interface can significantly enhance user experience and convey professionalism. This isn’t a critical flaw but an area for potential improvement in user engagement.
- Absence of Live Chat Support: While phone and email are offered, many customers today prefer live chat for immediate assistance with queries. The absence of this feature could be a minor inconvenience for some users seeking quick responses.
Handles2hardware.co.uk Alternatives
When considering alternatives to Handles2hardware.co.uk, it’s wise to look at both specialist hardware suppliers and broader home improvement retailers that also offer a strong selection of door and window furniture, fixings, and related products. The UK market is robust, with several established players known for their reliability, customer service, and extensive inventories. Letslease.co.uk Review
Specialist Hardware Retailers
These companies often offer deeper stock and more technical expertise in specific product categories.
- IronmongeryDirect: As mentioned in the alternatives, this is a top-tier specialist. They focus exclusively on architectural ironmongery, offering a vast array of high-quality products from top brands. Their technical support is often highly praised, making them an excellent choice for complex projects or specific requirements. They boast over 18,000 products and aim for next-day delivery on most items.
- More Handles: Another online specialist focusing heavily on door handles and related ironmongery. They pride themselves on a wide range of styles, from traditional to contemporary, and offer competitive pricing with a strong emphasis on customer service. Their website often provides detailed product specifications and installation guides.
- Door Handles Online: As the name suggests, this retailer specialises in handles and associated door furniture. They carry a diverse range from various manufacturers, often at competitive prices. Their strength lies in the depth of their handle selection, catering to different aesthetics and functional needs.
General Home Improvement & Trade Suppliers
These larger retailers offer a broader product spectrum, including hardware, tools, and building materials, making them convenient for comprehensive projects.
- Screwfix: Unmatched in the UK for speed and convenience for trade and DIY. They have an enormous catalogue, excellent stock availability, and a very efficient click-and-collect service from their numerous stores. For general fixings, tools, and common hardware items, they are often a go-to for many. In 2023, Screwfix recorded sales of over £2.8 billion, highlighting its market dominance.
- Toolstation: Similar to Screwfix in its model, Toolstation also offers a wide range of products for trade and DIY, focusing on competitive pricing and rapid availability. They have a strong branch network and robust online ordering system. Their product range covers over 12,000 items, with new products continually added.
- B&Q: A household name in UK home improvement. While they offer a wide range of products from paint to garden furniture, their hardware section is substantial, providing options for various door and window accessories, hinges, and locks. They cater heavily to the DIY market and have extensive physical stores. As of 2023, B&Q operated over 300 stores across the UK and Ireland.
- Wickes: Also a major player in the DIY and trade sector, Wickes provides a strong selection of building materials, kitchens, bathrooms, and general hardware. They are particularly strong for larger renovation projects and offer reliable delivery services for bulky items.
Online Marketplaces
For sheer variety and competitive pricing, general marketplaces can be useful, though verifying seller reliability is crucial.
- Amazon UK: For specific hardware items, Amazon’s vast marketplace can be invaluable. Many smaller hardware suppliers and larger brands sell directly or through Amazon, offering a huge selection, competitive pricing, and fast delivery, especially for Prime members. However, it requires careful checking of seller reviews and product authenticity.
- eBay UK: Similar to Amazon, eBay hosts numerous sellers offering new and used hardware. It can be a good source for niche items or discontinued lines, but buyer discretion is highly advised, focusing on sellers with high feedback ratings.
When choosing an alternative, consider factors such as:
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- Specific product need: Are you looking for a common screw or a highly specialised heritage door knocker?
- Delivery speed: Do you need it tomorrow, or can you wait a few days?
- Budget: Are you looking for the cheapest option or willing to pay more for premium quality?
- Customer support: Do you anticipate needing technical advice or easy returns?
These alternatives offer a range of options, from highly specialised ironmongery experts to broad general retailers, ensuring that users can find suitable solutions for their hardware needs while maintaining ethical purchasing practices.
handles2hardware.co.uk Pricing
Based on the provided homepage text, Handles2hardware.co.uk makes a direct claim about its pricing strategy: “COMPETITIVE PRICES Quality brands at great prices.” While specific product prices are not listed on the homepage itself, this statement, combined with the offer of “FREE DELIVERY For orders over £75,” provides some insight into their general approach.
Pricing Model and Strategy
- Competitive Positioning: The explicit mention of “competitive prices” suggests that Handles2hardware.co.uk aims to position itself favourably against other retailers in the market. This often implies that they benchmark their prices against competitors like Screwfix, Toolstation, or other online hardware specialists to ensure they offer good value.
- Value-Driven Purchases: The emphasis on “Quality brands at great prices” indicates a focus on delivering value rather than simply being the cheapest option. This aligns with a strategy of attracting customers who are looking for reliable, durable products without necessarily paying a premium, which is a common expectation in the hardware sector where longevity and performance are key.
- VAT Clarity: The site states “Ex. VAT Inc. VAT” at the top, which is a good practice for transparency, especially for a site that caters to both trade customers (who often view prices excluding VAT) and the general public (who need to know the total price including VAT). This ensures clarity on the final cost.
Delivery and Shipping Costs
- Free Delivery Threshold: The offer of “FREE DELIVERY For orders over £75*” is a significant factor in their pricing. For purchases below this amount, standard delivery charges would apply. A £75 threshold is quite common in the UK e-commerce landscape for free delivery and encourages customers to consolidate their purchases to reach this amount.
- Impact on Overall Cost: For smaller orders, the delivery charge can add a notable percentage to the total cost. For example, if a small item costs £10, and delivery is £5, the effective price is 50% higher. This is why the £75 threshold is important for larger projects or multiple items. While the exact delivery fees are not specified on the homepage, they would typically be detailed in the checkout process or a dedicated delivery information page.
Comparison to Competitors
Without specific price lists, a direct numerical comparison is challenging. However, generally:
- Screwfix and Toolstation: These major players are known for aggressive pricing, especially on popular trade items. Handles2hardware.co.uk would need to be very competitive to match or beat their prices on high-volume products.
- Specialist Ironmongery Retailers: More niche sites like IronmongeryDirect often offer higher-quality, specialised, or branded items, which may come with a slightly higher price tag but often reflect superior craftsmanship or specific design. Handles2hardware.co.uk’s claim of “Quality brands” suggests they might align more with this segment for certain products.
- General Marketplaces (Amazon/eBay): Prices on these platforms can fluctuate wildly due to multiple sellers. Handles2hardware.co.uk aims to offer a consistent pricing structure.
In conclusion, Handles2hardware.co.uk positions itself as a provider of quality hardware at competitive prices, backed by a free delivery offer for substantial orders. To truly assess their value, a direct comparison of specific products with competitors would be necessary, but their stated strategy indicates a customer-centric approach to pricing.
handles2hardware.co.uk Technical Expertise and Support
One of the standout features highlighted on the Handles2hardware.co.uk homepage is their commitment to technical support: “FAST & FREE TECHNICAL ADVICE For Products & Projects.” This indicates an understanding of the complexities often involved in hardware selection and installation, particularly for specialised items. For both trade professionals and DIY enthusiasts, having access to knowledgeable assistance can be invaluable.
Channels for Technical Advice
- Email: The site explicitly provides an email address:
[email protected]. Email support allows for detailed queries to be sent, often with attached images or project plans, which can be beneficial for technical troubleshooting or product recommendations. It also creates a written record of the advice given. - Phone: The homepage also mentions “give us a ring,” implying phone support is available. Direct phone contact is often preferred for urgent queries or for discussions that require back-and-forth clarification, allowing for immediate real-time problem-solving. This personal touch can significantly enhance the customer experience.
- No Live Chat Indication: As noted previously, the homepage does not explicitly mention a live chat feature. While email and phone are robust channels, live chat has become an increasingly popular option for quick questions and immediate assistance in online retail.
Scope of Technical Advice
The phrase “For Products & Projects” suggests a broad scope for their technical advice. This could encompass:
- Product Compatibility: Advising on whether a specific handle or lock will fit a particular door or window type.
- Installation Guidance: Offering tips or basic instructions for fitting hardware, though detailed guides would likely be found in product documentation.
- Material Suitability: Helping customers choose the right material for their environment (e.g., marine-grade stainless steel for coastal areas).
- Troubleshooting: Assisting with common issues encountered during or after installation.
- Project Planning: Providing general guidance on what hardware might be suitable for a larger renovation or building project.
Importance of Technical Support in Hardware Retail
In the hardware industry, accurate technical advice is paramount. Incorrect product selection can lead to significant issues, including:
- Safety Hazards: Particularly with locks, fire-rated hardware, or panic hardware.
- Functional Failures: Products that don’t fit or operate correctly.
- Costly Mistakes: Requiring re-ordering or professional intervention.
- Project Delays: Due to incompatible parts or installation problems.
The stated provision of “FAST & FREE TECHNICAL ADVICE” positions Handles2hardware.co.uk as more than just a retailer; they aim to be a resource for their customers. This added value can be a significant differentiator, especially for those embarking on DIY projects or tradespeople encountering unfamiliar specifications.
handles2hardware.co.uk User Experience and Navigation
The user experience (UX) and site navigation are critical components of any e-commerce platform. Handles2hardware.co.uk presents a structured and functional design, aiming to make product discovery and purchasing straightforward. Albionshire.co.uk Review
Site Structure and Categories
The website employs a clear, hierarchical navigation menu. Top-level categories like “Door & Window,” “Fixings, Fastenings & Adhesives,” “Door Closers,” “Gate & Shed,” and “More products” provide logical entry points. Each of these branches into multiple subcategories, such as:
- Door & Window: Front Door Furniture, Door Accessories, Door Handles, Door Knobs, Hinges, Locks & Latches, Intumescents, Acoustic & Seals, Window Furniture, Drawer, Cabinet & Cupboard Handles.
- Fixings, Fastenings & Adhesives: Fixings, Nails & Studs, Anchors, Screws, Adhesives.
This deep categorization is highly beneficial for a site with “over 11,000 products,” allowing users to quickly drill down to specific items rather than sifting through broad lists. It also suggests a comprehensive understanding of the product taxonomy typical in the hardware industry.
Homepage Elements for User Guidance
The homepage integrates several common e-commerce elements designed to improve the user journey:
- Promotional Banners: Rotating banners highlight new lines (“Open Up Your 2025”) and key product categories (e.g., “DOOR HANDLES shop now”). These are effective for drawing attention to specific offerings.
- “Best Sellers” and “Special Offers” Sections: These dedicated areas on the homepage help users quickly identify popular items and potential deals, guiding purchasing decisions.
- Brand Showcase: A “Brands” section lists numerous reputable manufacturers (e.g., Briton, Carlisle Brass, Dorma, Makita, WD-40). This not only highlights the quality of their stock but also allows users to shop by preferred brand, which is a common purchasing habit in the trade.
- “About Us” and “Contact Us” Links: While not always in the most prominent positions on the homepage, these links are present and provide essential information for users looking for company details or support.
Aspects Affecting User Experience
- Visual Design: The design is functional and clean, but arguably not cutting-edge. Modern e-commerce sites often use more dynamic visuals, higher-resolution product imagery, and more refined typography to enhance the aesthetic appeal. While not detrimental to functionality, a refreshed visual identity could improve the overall perceived professionalism.
- Search Functionality: While not explicitly detailed in the provided text, a robust search bar is crucial for a site with such a large inventory. Users often prefer to type in exactly what they need rather than navigating through menus. The presence of a “Skip to content” link suggests attention to web accessibility, which is a positive UX trait.
- Mobile Responsiveness: The provided text does not indicate whether the site is optimised for mobile devices. In today’s landscape, a mobile-responsive design is non-negotiable, as a significant portion of traffic comes from smartphones and tablets. A poor mobile experience can quickly lead to user frustration and abandonment.
- Clarity on Policies: As mentioned in the “Pros & Cons” section, the lack of immediate, prominent links to crucial policies (Returns, Privacy, T&Cs) on the homepage footer can detract from the user experience by forcing customers to search for essential information. This can lead to perceived lack of transparency and reduced trust.
Overall, Handles2hardware.co.uk provides a logical and functional navigation structure for its extensive product catalogue. While its visual design might be more utilitarian than trendy, the focus on clear categories and direct information helps users find what they need. Improvements in policy visibility and mobile optimisation could further elevate the user experience.
FAQ
What is Handles2hardware.co.uk?
Handles2hardware.co.uk is an online retailer based in the UK that specialises in supplying a wide range of door and window hardware, fixings, fasteners, adhesives, and various home and gate accessories. Sparktechit.co.uk Review
Is Handles2hardware.co.uk a legitimate company?
Yes, Handles2hardware.co.uk states it is a trading name of ATF Supplies Ltd, a company that has been established and trading in the North East of England for over 20 years, indicating a legitimate and experienced business.
What types of products does Handles2hardware.co.uk sell?
They sell over 11,000 products, including door handles, door knobs, hinges, locks, latches, door closers, window furniture, cabinet handles, fixings, screws, adhesives, gate and shed hardware, and various home accessories like lighting and bathroom fittings.
Does Handles2hardware.co.uk offer free delivery?
Yes, Handles2hardware.co.uk offers free delivery for orders exceeding £75 within the UK.
Does Handles2hardware.co.uk provide technical advice?
Yes, they offer fast and free technical advice for both their products and for specific projects, which can be accessed via email or phone.
What are the main benefits of shopping at Handles2hardware.co.uk?
Key benefits include competitive prices, a wide selection of over 11,000 products from quality brands, free delivery on orders over £75, and access to free technical advice. Salonequipmentcentre.co.uk Review
Are there any cons to shopping at Handles2hardware.co.uk?
The main cons include the lack of prominently displayed links to their Returns Policy, Privacy Policy, and Terms & Conditions on the homepage, which could impact customer trust and transparency.
How can I contact Handles2hardware.co.uk customer service?
You can contact their customer service via email at [email protected] or by giving them a call, as indicated on their homepage.
Does Handles2hardware.co.uk have a physical store?
Based on the provided information, the website operates as an online retailer, though it mentions ATF Supplies Ltd has been trading in the North East of England, which might imply a physical presence for the parent company.
What brands does Handles2hardware.co.uk stock?
They stock a variety of well-known brands such as Briton, Carlisle Brass, Dorma, Eurospec, Everbuild, Makita, WD-40, and many others, covering a wide range of hardware manufacturers.
Can I find reviews for Handles2hardware.co.uk?
Yes, the website features a direct link to their Trustpilot profile on its homepage, where you can find independent customer reviews. Better4hooves.co.uk Review
Is it easy to navigate Handles2hardware.co.uk’s website?
Yes, the website has a clear, hierarchical navigation menu with detailed categories and subcategories, making it relatively easy to find specific products among their extensive inventory.
Does Handles2hardware.co.uk cater to both trade and public customers?
Yes, the company explicitly states that they are dedicated to making the shopping experience easy and stress-free for “customers, be they trade or public.”
How long has ATF Supplies Ltd been trading?
ATF Supplies Ltd, the parent company of Handles2hardware.co.uk, has been trading for over 20 years.
What if I cannot find a specific product on Handles2hardware.co.uk?
If you cannot find the product you are looking for, or need advice, the website encourages you to email or call their team for assistance.
Does Handles2hardware.co.uk offer special offers or discounts?
Yes, the homepage features a “Special Offers” section, indicating that they periodically run promotions on their products. Amilis.co.uk Review
How does Handles2hardware.co.uk ensure product quality?
They state that they stock over 11,000 products and “source from only the best suppliers” to ensure a wide range of high-quality products.
Does Handles2hardware.co.uk sell more than just door and window hardware?
Yes, in addition to door and window hardware, they also sell fixings, fastenings, adhesives, door closers, gate and shed hardware, and “More products” which includes home accessories, lighting, bathroom items, and janitorial supplies.
What is the return policy for Handles2hardware.co.uk?
The specific return policy is not detailed on the homepage; customers would need to check dedicated policy pages on the website for full information on returns, exchanges, and refunds.
Are the prices on Handles2hardware.co.uk shown including or excluding VAT?
The website indicates that prices can be viewed both “Ex. VAT” (excluding Value Added Tax) and “Inc. VAT” (including Value Added Tax), providing clarity for different customer types.
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