Key takeaways
- EORI numbers are essential for trade: Any business importing or exporting goods to or from the EU or UK must have an EORI number for customs declarations.
- Different numbers for EU and UK: Since Brexit, businesses trading in both regions need separate EORI numbers — one for the EU and one for the UK.
- Easy to apply online: You can apply through your national customs authority or HMRC, and verify your registration anytime using the official EU or UK EORI number checkers.
In short: An EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) number is an ID that customs authorities give to businesses that import or export goods. You need an EU EORI number to move goods into or out of the EU, and a separate UK EORI number for the UK. You apply through your national customs authority or HMRC.
Just what is an EORI number, and should your business have one? Below we explain what an EORI number is, how to get one, and why anyone doing business in the EU or UK is likely to need it. To get an EORI number, you apply through your national customs authority. You give details such as your business address and postcode.
What is an EU EORI number?
The Economic Operator Registration and Identification Number (EORI number) is an ID number that customs authorities give to an economic operator or other person. It registers them for customs purposes.
The main purpose of the EORI number is to make the increasingly automated customs clearance process smoother. Any contact between the operator and the authorities must include the EORI number automatically. This covers applications, declarations, and other documents. So, if you need to complete customs duties, you'll need an EORI number. It's also important to check your EORI status to make sure it's valid for customs operations.
Since January 1, 2021, when the Brexit transition period ended, you have needed two types of EORI numbers: one for the EU and one for the UK. Before Brexit, the EU recognized the UK EORI number and vice versa. This is no longer the case.
The EU EORI number is made up of the country code of the issuing member state and a number unique to that member state. For example, a Dutch EORI number begins with the letters NL, followed by a 9-digit number. The UK EORI number is similar. It consists of the letters GB and 12 digits.
For Northern Ireland, a valid EU EORI number starts with XI. You need it, for example, to move goods to non-EU countries.
Who needs to have an EORI number for customs declarations?
You need an EU EORI number if you plan to import goods into, or export goods out of, the EU. The member state where your business is located issues the number, but it is valid in all member states. If you move goods to or from the United Kingdom, you need to apply for a UK EORI number. A UK EORI number is only valid in the United Kingdom.
An EORI number is essential for smooth customs operations in international trade.
Sellers are not the only ones who need an EORI number. Forwarders and transporters also need one to identify themselves to customs officials. Businesses based outside the EU or UK that do business in Europe or the UK must also get an EORI number. They need it to move goods between the UK and other countries. This includes non-EU countries, which have specific customs requirements.
Companies or individuals who carry out no more than five customs operations a year within the EU do not need an EORI number. If they go over this amount, they must apply for one.
Also, you cannot start the import/export process without an EORI number. You must have it in place before you go through the local customs clearance system.
Want to check a company's EORI registration status? You can look it up with the online EU EORI number checker or the UK EORI checker.
How do I apply for an EORI number?
You apply for an EU EORI number to the customs authority in the EU member state where you're already established. If you're not established in the EU customs territory, apply to the customs authority of the country where you'll carry out your first import or export.
If you need a UK EORI number, you can apply on the HMRC website. You'll get your UK EORI number immediately, unless HMRC needs to make checks on your application. If it does, it can take up to 5 working days. If you have a UK VAT number, HMRC should already have issued you with a UK EORI number.
How do I perform an EORI number check?
You check an EORI number in the official EU or UK online database. Before you apply for an EORI number, check that you're not already registered. In some cases, a company is automatically given an EORI number once it has registered for its VAT number.
You can do an EORI number check on the EORI online database for EU-issued numbers. For numbers issued by the UK authorities, use the HMRC EORI checker UK. You can also use these databases to check an EORI number that belongs to another business.
The European Commission has further information on EORI numbers. The EORI team at HMRC can help with your EORI questions.
Do you need help with EORI numbers and VAT compliance? Book a free call with one of our VAT experts to find bespoke solutions for your business, optimize your VAT costs, and reach millions of new potential customers.
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Frequently asked questions
What is an EORI number?
An EORI number is a unique identifier assigned by customs authorities to businesses and individuals involved in import and export activities in the EU and UK.
Why do businesses need an EORI number?
Businesses need an EORI number to engage in international trade and streamline customs procedures.
How can I apply for an EORI number?
To apply for an EU EORI number, contact the customs authority in the member state where your business is established. For a UK EORI number, apply through the HMRC website.
Do I need separate EORI numbers for the EU and the UK?
Yes, since Brexit, separate EORI numbers are required for the EU and the UK.
Who needs to have an EORI number?
Any business or individual involved in importing or exporting goods to or from the EU or the UK needs an EORI number.
How can I check if my EORI number is valid?
You can verify the validity of your EORI number through the EU's EORI number checker or the HMRC EORI checker for UK-issued numbers.
What information is needed to apply for an EORI number?
You need to provide your business details, including your business address and postcode. If you have a UK VAT number, HMRC may automatically issue an EORI number.
Can I trade internationally without an EORI number?
No, an EORI number is mandatory for completing customs declarations and related documents during the import/export process.
How long does it take to receive an EORI number?
In the UK, you usually get your GB EORI number immediately. If HMRC needs to make checks on your application, it can take up to 5 working days. The timeline for receiving an EU EORI number may vary by member state.
Do I need an EORI number for small or infrequent trades?
Businesses or individuals conducting fewer than five customs operations per year within the EU do not need an EORI number, but must apply if exceeding this number.
