Ni number required for an online retail purchase?

[ishaw]

This is bike related. I was looking to buy some spare parts for a bike direct from manufacturer site.

The checkout process asks for my NI number which is a required field so can't checkout without it.

Why would a retailer be asking for this?

I get the HMRC rules on platforms like eBay and vinted etc to check on traders Vs personal thresholds and the like, but to make a simple purchase seems a little over the top?

Anyone know why this is being asked for?

For the record it's for some suspension bolts.

 

[Guinessisgoodforyou]

What the Fk I'd be going somewhere else.

 

[d8mok]

NI numbers should only be given to a handful of organisations or people.

EBay is listed. I doubt whoever you are buying from is.

Who is it?

 

[NorthOfHere]

I don't care what it's for, a retail purchase should not require your NI number. That sounds very shady.

 

[ishaw]

I agree with all of the above. I didn't proceed as a result.

Its Mondraker so quite a specific need to be fulfilled. I've contacted UK suppliers to try and get what I need.

Fingers crossed, but glad I'm not going mad in thinking this isn't normal. First time I've come across it.