The EORI number is an essential code for international shipping, especially for ambitious UK e-commerce businesses that want to grow internationally. In order to export or import from countries within the EU, it is vital that you apply for one. You’ve come to the right place if you want to understand EORI numbers and how they work.
We have put together a complete guide covering all the above information. We answer: what is an EORI number, why is it needed, how to use it and when to use it. You’ll also find out what to do if you need further support, along with any other things you should think about.
EORI Number – Frequently asked questions:
The basics and getting started:
- What is an EORI number, and who needs one?
- What is an EORI number used for, and when is it used in the shipping process?
- Is an EORI number the same as a VAT number?
Understanding and recognising EORI numbers:
Economic Operator Registration and Identification numbers and your UK e-commerce store:
- Do I need an EORI number to import or export goods between the EU to the UK?
- Do I need an EORI number to export from the UK to Northern Ireland, or from the UK to the Republic of Ireland?
- How do I find my EORI number and how to find it by company name?
- Is my EORI number affected by Brexit?
- What happens if I am not registered for an EORI number?
- Do sole traders or private individuals need an EORI number?
- I’m a subsidiary of a holding group. Do I need my own EORI number?
- Should I send my EORI number to my freight forwarder?
- Do I need an EORI number for importing or exporting digital services?
Applying for an EORI number:
- How much does it cost to apply?
- How to get an EORI number (from the UK or from outside the UK)?
- What information do I need to apply, and how long does it take?
- How can I change my EORI Number?
EORI numbers: The basics and getting started
What is an EORI number?
EORI is an acronym for Economic Operator Registration and Identification. It is a unique code that is used to track and register customs information within the EU.
Who needs an EORI number?
Any business that exports or imports from the UK to the EU or to non-EU countries requires an EORI number. This includes businesses of all sizes and sectors.
If you are not sure if your business already has one, then it’s important to check. EORI numbers are unique to each business. If you reapply you won’t be issued with another. Sometimes when a company registers for VAT it is automatically registered for one. To check whether you already have one, use the validator on the European Commission site.
All of these must submit a customs declaration CN22 or CN23 and a commercial invoice along with the correct EORI number. This number helps customs authorities quickly process your declaration.
Curious about how to speed up your packages through customs clearance? Check out our latest blog post!
What is an EORI number used for?
The Economic Operator Registration and Identification is a code required for any business exporting to the EU from the UK or importing from the EU to the UK. The numbers are used for tracking and registering all customs information and activity within the EU.
When is it used in the shipping process?
The EORI number is a vital part of your shipping documentation when sending packages from the UK to the EU. The code is the way that customs authorities identify who is importing or exporting goods. You will be asked to fill out your number when completing customs forms. If you use a freight forwarding company you should share your number with them.
Is an EORI number the same as a VAT number?
Your VAT number is linked to your Economic Operator Registration and Identification. But this number is not the same as your VAT number. When you apply for your EORI number as a VAT registered business, the HMRC links all your imports to your VAT number.
Remember: The way EU VAT is processed has changed due to Brexit as well as changes to EU laws, so be sure to read up on all the updates.
Understanding and recognising EORI numbers
What is the format of an EORI number, and how many digits does it have?
UK Economic Operator Registration and Identifications begin with the letters ‘GB‘. This is followed by a 12-digit number which is based on the trader’s VAT number. It is suffixed by ‘000’. For example, GB123456789000.
They always begin with the letters ‘GB’, followed by 12 digits. For example, GB123456789000.
Don’t get this code confused with your HS codes or Incoterms. They all have very different purposes!
EORI numbers and your e-commerce store
Do I need an EORI number to import or export between the EU to the UK?
Yes. All UK businesses that import from the EU to the UK need a valid EORI number. And all UK businesses that export from the UK to the EU also need a valid number.
Top tip: make sure to also read up on the rules of origin if you’re looking to ship your products to Europe.
Do I need an EORI number to import or export from the UK to Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland?
Yes. Note that if you are importing or exporting to Northern Ireland, an EORI number starting with ‘XI’ is typically required.
How do I find my EORI number?
If you are already a UK VAT-registered business, you might already have an Economic Operator Registration and Identification. You can find your status and number easily online. You can access your specific code on both the UK and European Commission databases. Your nine-digit VAT number should be prefixed with ‘GB’ and suffixed with ‘000’, eg; GB987654321000.
How to find an EORI number by company name?
Due to data protection, it can be tricky to find an EORI number by the company name. If you need to find yours and only have your company name to search by you should contact the HMRC team.
Is my EORI number affected by Brexit?
The UK left the EU on the 31st December 2020. Businesses that already have an EORI number do NOT need to re-apply or change their existing number. EORI numbers are unique to every business so you won’t get a new one if you do reapply.
It can take up to a week to apply for, and receive your number. If you do not have one and want to ship to the EU, or import from the EU, then applying should be your highest priority.
What happens if I am not registered for an EORI number?
If you do not have a valid EORI you may incur increased costs, fines or delays when shipping between the UK and the EU.
Do sole traders need an EORI number?
Yes. All UK businesses including sole traders, partnerships and larger companies need one.
Does a private individual need one?
No. At the time of writing, if you’re a private individual and need to move goods between the UK to EU you don’t need one.
I’m a subsidiary of a holding group. Do I also need my own number?
No. If you are part of a larger holding group you do not need your own. The holding company needs to take care of this themselves.
Should I send my EORI number to my freight forwarder?
Yes. It is very important to share your unique EORI number with your freight forwarder. Failing to do so could result in delay in shipping or fines at customs.
Do I need an EORI number for importing or exporting digital services between the UK and the EU?
No. At the time of writing you do not need one to import or export digital services between the UK and the EU.
Note: There could always be regulatory changes in the future, particularly concerning trade agreements and customs processes, so make sure you stay informed.
How to apply for an EORI number
How much does it cost to apply for an EORI number?
There is no cost to apply. Both the application process and receiving the code are completely free.
How do I get an EORI number if I am based in the UK?
Fortunately, the process is simple and straightforward if you are based in the UK.
- Go to the EORI page on the UK Government website.
- Locate and complete the application form that fits your business type e.g VAT registered in the UK, not VAT registered in the UK etc.
- Submit your form electronically.
- Keep checking your email. You should receive your EORI number within a week.
How do I get one if I am NOT based in the UK?
Contact the HMRC team for assistance if you are based outside the UK.
What information do I need to apply for an EORI number?
The UK Government has made the application process as easy as possible. Though, as with a lot of shipping documentation, you do need to supply quite a few pieces of information to ensure a successful application.
Here are the pieces of information you will need to supply when applying.
- Your full name.
- Business name and address.
- VAT registered name.
- Contact details.
- VAT address.
- Your position in the business e.g; manager, administrator.
- VAT registered number.
- If you are an individual or sole trader you will need to have your National Insurance as well.
Important note: When you apply, the system assumes you are intending to import or export a shipment straight away. This means you can’t complete the forms in advance. Therefore, you should make sure you have all the details of your shipment ready. This includes; destination address, sender address, details of the parcel contents and any other shipping documentation.
How long does an application take?
Once you have finished applying you will receive your EORI number via your registered email address. It takes around one week to receive one. You will receive the code with your registered email address. We advise to apply as soon as possible in case there are delays.
Important note: When you apply, the system assumes you are intending to import or export a shipment straight away. You cannot complete the forms in advance. Therefore, you should make sure you have all the details of your shipment ready. This includes; destination address, sender address, details of the parcel contents, weight and measurements and any other required shipping documentation.
How can I change my EORI Number?
Changing an EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number involves a few steps, but it’s important to note that typically, you cannot change the EORI number itself as it’s a unique identifier assigned to your business. However, if you need to update the details associated with your EORI number (such as your business address, contact information, or company name), you can do so by following these steps:
- Contact the relevant authority —His Majesty Revenue and Customs (HMRC)— to inform them of the changes you need to make.
- Provide the necessary documentation or information to update your business details.
- Note: In some cases, if the changes are substantial (like a change in the legal structure of the business), you might need to cancel your existing EORI number and apply for a new one.
- After submitting the changes, you’ll receive confirmation from the customs authority that your details have been updated.
- After updating your EORI details, make sure to inform any relevant parties (such as your logistics providers, partners, or customers) of the change to avoid any disruption in your import/export activities.
You can also update your EORI details online through the HMRC website.
Summary
This guide may seem like a lot of information to take on board. But, like many business processes, we guarantee it gets easier over time. Before you know it, it will become just another part of your shipping process between the UK and the EU.
If you don’t have an EORI number, make sure you prioritise applying for one. Because the UK left the EU on the 31st December 2020, all UK businesses and individuals who want to move goods between the UK and the EU will need one. If you don’t have a valid number, you could incur delays or fines. If you do get stuck with anything, you’ll find plenty of information on the UK Government web pages.
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