First-time VAT return for a cross-border EU setup issue. Should I use VAT compliance services or to do in my self?

Hi everyone, Rob here. Since 2024 I run small digital marketplace with my business partner, and this year we started working with customers and vendors across several EU countries (before it was only one country where we are from – France). To support the growth, we recently leased warehouse space in Spain and bought inventory from suppliers in Germany and Netherlands.

Now we’re trying to understand our tax compliance obligations, especially around filing our first VAT return. We want to stay fully compliant, but we’re also trying to avoid unnecessary costs or mistakes that could create problems later, because you know how this niche tricky, huh.

For those who've dealt with EU VAT across several countries before: is it realistic to manage the VAT return process yourself the first time, or is it safer to work with an accountant or dedicated VAT compliance services provider?

Especially curious how businesses are handling international VAT and tax compliance now in 2026. Are there reliable tools that make filings easier, or does the complexity still make outsourcing the better option?

Thank you.