EORI Registration
Get an EORI number for seamless UK-EU trade
An EORI number makes trading between Great Britain and the EU a breeze. It’s not just a requirement – it’s your ticket to faster shipments and hassle-free customs clearance. With an EORI, you’re all set to keep your business moving forward in the European market.
What is an EORI number?
Businesses and individuals wishing to trade must use the EORI number as an identification number in all customs procedures when exchanging information with customs administrations.
It is a unique ID code used to track and register customs information in the EU.
Having one universal type of identification number across the EU is more efficient, both for economic operators and customs authorities.
It is also beneficial for both statistical and security purposes. It important to note, that if your company is part of a larger holding group, then the application for an EORI number must be processed by the parent company, not the subsidiary.
Format of the EORI number
The EORI number comprises two parts:
- the country code of the issuing Member State; followed by
- a code or number that is unique in the Member State
Here is an example:
- VAT registered businesses: GB + VRN (VAT registration number) + 000
- Non-VAT registered businesses: GB + unique number issued by HMRC
Importance of an EORI number
- An EORI number is required to move goods between the UK and non-EU countries.
- If you don’t have an EORI number then you can’t import or export goods from the EU legally. This is because the EORI number is used for customs declarations of all goods entering or exiting the EU.
- Without an EORI number, you risk increased costs and delays resulting from storage fees imposed on your products that HMRCcannot clear.
How to apply for an EORI number
- Fill in an online form that’s submitted to HMRC to apply for an EORI number.
- If exporting goods via sea, or air freight, you must have this number before you want to ship your goods. When importing, you will only need the number before the goods arrive in the UK.
- AVASK’s team of experts has in-depth knowledge of EU customs regulations. We can provide businesses with tailored advice on EORI registration requirements and customs compliance obligations.
Who needs an EORI number?
If you move goods to or from the EU
Since January 1, 2021, you’ve needed an EORI number to ship goods between Great Britain and the EU.
You’ll need an EU EORI number for making declarations or getting customs decisions in the EU.
You might not need an EORI number if you:
- Only provide services
- Move goods between Northern Ireland and Ireland
If you’re shipping with a postal company, they’ll let you know if you need an EORI number.
If you move goods to or from Northern Ireland
Since January 1, 2021, you’ve need an EORI number commencing with XI to:
- Move goods between Northern Ireland and non-EU countries
- Make a declaration in Northern Ireland
- Get a customs decision in Northern Ireland
To get an XI-prefix EORI number, you need a GB-prefix EORI number first.
If you do not have one, you should apply for a EORI number starting with GB as soon as is practical.
EORI checker
Before submitting your application, it is worth checking that your company is not already EORI registered. If your company is registered for VAT, it may have automatically been issued a EORI number.
EORI numbers are permanently associated with the company that they are issued to – so an alternate EORI number will not be issued if you have misplaced the previously issued EORI number.
You can check here if your company already has a EORI number: