What is an EORI number?
An EORI number – which stands for an Economic Operator Registration and Identification Number – is a unique ID code used to track and register customs information in the EU and UK.
Who needs an EORI number?
You can register for an EORI number as a business or an individual. All UK and EU based importers and exporters need an EORI number – and in some cases, organisations based outside of the EU but trading within Europe, need one too.
Businesses
If you are a business* entity, and importing/exporting to/from the UK and the EU, you will need to apply for an EORI number.
*It’s helpful to know 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.
Individual
If you are a private entity, and the import/export to/from the UK and the EU is for commercial reasons (e.g. sale, loan), you will need to apply for an EORI number.
If you are a private entity, and the import/export to/from the UK and the EU is for personal use (e.g. household effects), then you do not need to apply for an EORI*.
*Customs will still require you to declare the identity of the importer/exporter so we recommend applying for an EORI number to limit any chance of delays with customs. It is free and takes less than 5 min
If you do not supply an EORI number when required you increase your chances of customs delays, storage charges and returns.
How to apply for an EORI number?
Visit your local government website for further details.
What does an EORI number look like?
An EORI number is made up of a country code, to show where the organisation or individual is registered, and a unique code or number. For example, UK businesses are as follows:
- VAT registered businesses: GB + VRN (VAT registration number) + 000
- Non-VAT registered businesses: GB + unique number issued by HMRC