The EORI number, a unique alphanumeric code, is essential for interactions with customs authorities across all European countries. Let's explore its purposes and the process for obtaining it.
The EORI code, short for Economic Operator Registration and Identification, is an alphanumeric sequence of characters essential for interactions with customs authorities. The primary purpose of this code is to register and identify all economic operators, i.e. companies and people, involved in customs activities.
In this way, customs and other government departments can monitor and track all shipments entering and leaving the European Union and other countries.
The EORI code is made of the ISO code of the issuing Member State (for example IT for Italy and FR for France) and is then followed by a sequence of up to 15 digits.
When moving goods to or from Great Britain you must get an EORI number starting with GB. When you move goods to or from Northern Ireland your EORI number should start with XI. UK EORI numbers are Customs ID numbers and differ from EU EORI numbers, which are valid in all EU member states.
The code is necessary for all operators who carry out import and export activities of goods between:
It applies to the following entities:
Even individuals without a VAT number can request the EORI code.
Typically, an EORI number consists of the country code of the issuing country followed by a unique set of digits. For example, if you’re a business in Great Britain and you’re VAT registered, your EORI number will begin with GB followed by your VAT registration number + 000. For example, GB987654312000.
If you’re not VAT registered, it will be GB followed by a unique number issued by HMRC.
The EORI Code is used exclusively for customs and has no fiscal or administrative value.
As we said previously, its purpose is to monitor and track all shipments entering and leaving the European Union. Specifically, it uniquely identifies economic agents engaged in EU customs activities and provides a universal reference for customs authorities across different countries, simplifying the exchange of information between customs and other government departments.
The EORI code is mandatory in all communications with the customs authorities of the European Union member states, whenever it is required.
Information related to the EORI code is stored in a central electronic database which allows customs authorities to quickly and easily identify the economic operators along with their customs clearance operations across all European Union countries.
There are several ways to check the validity of your EORI number, from a manual check to online tools. Here are 4 suggestions:
In general, the EORI number is issued by the competent authority in the country where a company or economic operator is registered. This authority varies from country to country and can be a national customs agency, a tax office, or a foreign trade government organization.
The issuing authority assigns EORI numbers and keeps track of the economic operators registered in their country. Each issuing authority follows specific procedures and requirements for obtaining the EORI number and can provide assistance and information on registration applications.
How to apply for an EORI number in the UK?
UK applications are handled online via HMRC. You simply need to complete a form. You will find one for VAT registered applicants, one for non VAT registered from if exporting or a non VAT registered form if importing.
If you own a business based in the UK, make sure you possess the following information before applying:
EORI is the acronym for Economic Operator Registration and Identification and is an alphanumeric code consisting of up to 14 digits in the UK. Essentially, it is used to track products entering and exiting the EU. In this way, shipments and their origins can be identified quickly by customs.
To obtain an EORI number in the UK you need to fill in a form available for free on the HMRC website.
Normally, GB EORI numbers are issued immediately. Otherwise, if the HMRC has to perform some checks, it can take up to five working days. Once you receive your UK EORI number, it may take around 48h for its official activation.
The European Commission has an online tool to verify EU EORI numbers which is accessible for free here, whereas for UK EORI numbers you can use this service.