VAT charges when purchasing from suppliers

Hi there

I have an online shop so whilst I'm looking at wholesale website they show there prices without VAT. I really don't understand VAT, if I register is this something I can claim back or does it mean at the time of purchasing from the wholesaler I don't have to pay?
Sorry for the stupid question.

What country are you located in Tracey?

UK

OK, this link you help you with what you are looking for Link hidden: Login to view

Not sure that answers my question as I have an on line shop and don't use EBay
Many thanks

Hi if we in New Zealand what do we use please Mark for a VAT number?

Thank you

Not an issue for you in NZ, VAT (Value Added Tax) is a UK tax. If you sold something to a buyer in the UK that had VAT applied to it, then the customer would be liable to pay the tax on it.

Cheers