A Shelf Company, also known as a ready made company, is an International Business Company which has been incorporated in advance and as the name implies it has been kept on the shelf.

The attraction of a Shelf Company is that the company has aged, rather than appearing as a new endeavour. It is however a more expensive option having a ready made company that has aged to incorporating a new IBC as the renewal fees have been paid to the Government each year therefore the older the shelf company the more expensive it will be.

Due to the company having been previously incorporated, it is often the quickest way to obtain a company as the Corporate Documents are ready to ship with a courier immediately upon receipt of payment and Due Diligence documentation.

You are able to change the name of a Shelf Company and appoint Shareholders and Directors yourself; all Shelf Companies are incorporated with Nominee Shareholders/Directors

An important point to note and look at when purchasing a Shelf Company is when it will be due for its Annual Renewal Fees, (Government Fees, Registered Agent and Registered Office fee). Most jurisdictions but not all will set renewals on the Anniversary of the Incorporation so with a ready made Shelf Company the renewal fee could be due far sooner than if you incorporated a new company.