Duty-free supply for oil rigs, offshore platforms and North Sea operations. United Supplies provides bonded stores, customs support and offshore logistics from Aberdeen.
Supporting Offshore Operations Across the North Sea Since 1973
Offshore operations depend on reliable logistics. Whether supporting a fixed platform, semi-submersible rig, drilling campaign or offshore support vessel, operators need suppliers who understand the realities of working in the North Sea.
At United Supplies Duty Free, we have been supplying duty-free goods and bonded stores from Aberdeen since 1973. For more than fifty years, we have supported offshore operators throughout the North Sea with dependable service, practical advice and a thorough understanding of customs procedures.
From drilling campaigns and production platforms to accommodation units and support vessels, we help ensure stores are delivered correctly and on time.
Duty-Free Supply for Offshore Platforms
Offshore installations require a consistent supply chain to support personnel working offshore for extended periods.
Our duty-free supply service supports a wide range of offshore operations, including:
• Fixed production platforms
• Drilling rigs
• Semi-submersible units
• Accommodation platforms
• Offshore construction projects
• Energy transition infrastructure
• Support vessels serving offshore assets
With decades of experience supplying the offshore sector, we understand the logistical challenges involved in delivering supplies efficiently.
What Are Bonded Stores?
Bonded stores are duty-free goods supplied under customs procedures to qualifying offshore operations and vessels.
Typical bonded products include:
• Cigarettes
• Tobacco products
• Beer
• Wines
• Spirits
These goods are stored under customs control and supplied in accordance with HMRC requirements.
For offshore operators, bonded stores remain a routine part of supporting personnel working away from shore.
Why Do Oil Rigs and Offshore Platforms Need Specialist Suppliers?
Supplying an offshore installation is very different from supplying a shore-based business.
Schedules change. Weather affects operations. Helicopter and vessel movements create logistical constraints. Offshore campaigns evolve as work progresses.
A supplier serving the offshore sector needs to understand these realities.
The challenge is rarely the product itself. The challenge is ensuring the right supplies arrive at the right place, at the right time, with the correct documentation in place.
Supporting Offshore Operators From Aberdeen
Aberdeen remains the centre of North Sea offshore activity.
From Aberdeen Harbour, vessels continue to support:
• Oil and gas production
• Drilling operations
• Decommissioning projects
• Offshore wind developments
• Survey campaigns
• Construction activities
Operating from Aberdeen allows us to respond quickly to the requirements of offshore operators working throughout Scottish and UK waters.
Why Experience Matters Offshore
Offshore logistics rewards experience.
After more than fifty years supplying the sector, certain patterns repeat themselves.
Mobilisation schedules move.
Crew rotations change.
Vessel arrivals are delayed.
Requirements evolve at short notice.
The businesses that support offshore operators successfully are usually the ones that understand these operational realities and can respond accordingly.
This practical experience remains one of our greatest strengths.
HMRC-Compliant Bonded Supply
Duty-free goods operate within a regulated customs framework.
United Supplies operates Aberdeen’s only multi-user Customs and Excise bonded warehouse, enabling bonded goods to be managed efficiently and compliantly.
Our team handles:
• Customs documentation
• Stores authorities
• Delivery coordination
• Compliance requirements
• HMRC record keeping
This helps simplify the process for operators while ensuring supplies are managed correctly.
Who Do We Supply?
We regularly support organisations operating across the North Sea energy sector, including:
Offshore Platforms
Supporting production and operational personnel working offshore.
Drilling Contractors
Duty-free supplies for drilling campaigns and offshore installations.
Offshore Support Vessel Operators
Supporting vessel-based operations across the North Sea.
Construction and Decommissioning Projects
Providing stores support throughout project lifecycles.
Energy Transition Projects
Supporting offshore wind, carbon capture and other emerging energy developments.
A Common Mistake We See
One thing that has not changed since the 1970s is that stores planning is often treated as the final item on a mobilisation checklist.
The installation is ready.
The vessel is booked.
The personnel are assigned.
Then someone asks about stores shortly before departure.
The simplest advice is often the most valuable:
Discuss stores requirements early.
That allows time for documentation, coordination and delivery planning without creating unnecessary pressure on the operation.
Why Choose United Supplies?
Established Since 1973
More than fifty years serving offshore operators from Aberdeen.
Local Aberdeen Service
Located at the heart of North Sea operations.
Practical Offshore Experience
We understand offshore campaigns, vessel movements and mobilisation schedules.
HMRC Approved Bonded Warehouse
Supporting compliant supply of bonded goods throughout the region.
Personal Service
Direct access to people who understand your operation and can respond quickly when plans change.
Duty-Free Supply for Offshore Platforms and North Sea Operations
Whether you’re supporting a drilling campaign, production platform, accommodation unit or offshore support vessel, reliable supply remains essential to keeping operations running smoothly.
United Supplies has been supporting offshore operators since 1973 and continues to provide duty-free goods and bonded stores from Aberdeen to customers throughout the North Sea.
If you’re planning an offshore campaign or require bonded stores for a platform, rig or support vessel, speak to our team and we’ll help you arrange the right supplies for your operation.
Related Links:
The Complete Guide to Duty-Free Supply in the North Sea (2027 Edition)
How to Order Duty-Free Stores in Aberdeen: A Step-by-Step Guide
Can Offshore Wind Vessels Take Duty-Free Stores? What Operators Need to Know
Which North Sea Vessels Qualify for Duty-Free Stores? An Eligibility Checklist
Duty Free at Sea: A Plain-English Guide
Contact Us
Contact us today to learn how we can support your business