How do I get an EORI Number for my business?

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, the landscape for importing and exporting goods has changed significantly. One key change for businesses operating across borders is the requirement for an Economic Operations Registration and Identification (EORI) Number. This identifier is essential for customs declarations and clearance, allowing businesses to trade goods smoothly across international borders, particularly between the UK, EU, and other global markets.

Before Brexit, UK businesses trading with EU countries did not need a special number to clear goods between the UK and the EU. However, since the UK formally left the EU, new customs rules came into effect. Any business trading between the UK and the EU must have a GB-specific EORI number to handle customs procedures.

But how can you obtain one for your business?

What Is An EORI Number?

An EORI number (Economic Operations Registration and Identification number) is a unique ID used for tracking and registering businesses that import and export goods. It is mandatory for businesses within the European Union's customer territory and is required for customs clearance when trading internationally. This number helps customs authorities identify and process the movement of goods efficiently, speeding up customs declarations and facilitating international trade.

The EORI number is used for all customs interactions, including filing declarations, handling Entry Summary (ENS) and Exit Summary (EXS) declarations, and even registering for temporary storage. In short, it allows customs authorities to track shipments to and from various countries.

For businesses exporting goods from the UK to the RU or vice versa, an EORI number is mandatory. This number ensures that your goods are processed properly and helps avoid delays or rejections during customs clearance.

What An EORI Number Is Used For?

The EORI number is essential for several key reasons, including:

• Tracking shipments in and out of the UK or EO so customs can quickly identify them.
• Avoiding customs clearance delays, which can disrupt the movement of goods.
• Qualifying for trade agreements and claiming preferential origin under agreements like the EU-UK Trade Cooperation Agreement.

Do I Need An EORI Number?

Any business or economic operator that engages in the movement of goods across international borders within the customs territory of the European Union or between the UK and other countries needs an EORI number. Specifically, you will need an EORI number if you:

• Import of export goods between Great Britain and the EU or non-EU countries.
• Move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland or between Northern Ireland and countries outside the EU.
• Move goods between Great Britain and the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.

Even if you are not a business but engage in activities that involve customs declarations (such as a transporter or carrier), you may still need an EORI number. This includes making Entry Summary (ENS) and Exit Summary (EXS) declarations and filing temporary storage declarations.

You do not need an EORI number if you are moving goods for personal use or if customs do not control the goods.

How To Get An EORI Number

Getting an EORI number is a straightforward process, but you must ensure you have all the correct information before applying. Here's how you can obtain an EORI number for your business:

1. Check if you need one: Confirm that your business needs an EORI number before applying. If you're importing or exporting goods outside of the UK or between the UK and the EU, you will almost certainly need one.
2. Gather required information: To apply for an EORI number, you will need your:
   1. VAT number (if applicable)
   2. Unique Tax Payer Reference (UTR)
   3. Company registration number
   4. SIC (Standard Industrial Classification) code
   5. Business address and contact information
   6. Government Gateway user ID and password
3. Apply online: You can apply for an EORI number through the HMRC website. You will need to log into your Government Gateway account and submit your application. Most applications are processed and approved within a few days. Once approved, you will receive your EORI number, which you can begin using immediately for your international trade activities.

Use Our EORI Number Registration Service

Registering for an EORI number can sometimes be lengthy and complicated. That's why we offer a fast and efficient EORI Registration service. Simply purchase our EORI Number Registration Service, and we will do all the work on your behalf.