Everything you need to know about your EORI number

With Brexit closing in, and the uncertainty of how the UK’s relationship with the EU will look after 29^th March, business owners need to start making preparations for all possible outcomes. Whether you’re looking to begin trading overseas or are currently doing so, you will need an EORI number. Don’t worry if you don’t know anything about this yet - we’ve detailed everything you need to know below.

What is an EORI number?

EORI stands for Economic Operator Registration and Identification Number. This number is a unique ID code used to track and register customs information in the EU. Put simply, you need this to ensure you can bring your goods in and out of the EU.

Do I need an EORI number?

If you are planning to or currently trade overseas, you will need to have an EORI number in order to declare your goods when they are entering or exiting the EU. In the event you don’t have one, you will not be able to customers clear your goods until you have produced an EORI number. You can register for one as either an individual or a business.

If your company is part of a larger holding group, then the parent company is responsible for processing your EORI information.

How do I check if I already have one?

You can check if you have one by using the EORI number validator.

The format that the number takes is a country code and a unique code or number. These will look like:

• VAT registered businesses: GB + VRN (VAT registration number) + 000
• Non-VAT registered businesses: GB + unique number issued by HMRC

How do I apply?

To apply for your EORI number, you will need to visit: https://www.gov.uk/eori

Be sure you have the correct information necessary to apply for the correct application, all of which can be found on the website.

This process will normally take 3 working days via email – be sure to check your Spam folders, in case you do not receive your number within this timeframe and to avoid any delays in trading.

After receiving the number, pass it on to your courier and they will then make customs declarations on your behalf.

For more information, visit the HMRC EORI website.