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What is an EORI number and how do I get one?
01 April 2021
If you move goods between Great Britain and the EU, you must get an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number.
But what is an EORI number and what is it used for?
In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about EORI numbers and how to register.
What is an EORI number?
An EORI number is part of a shared code used across Europe to identify a business. It is made up of two components: the country code of the issuing state, as well as a number that is unique to that state.
For example, a business based in Great Britain will begin with the code ’GB’, followed by a 12-digit number.
Who needs an EORI number?
Any business that seeks to move goods to or from the ‘single market’ must register for an EORI number.
This also includes businesses moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland (NI) as part of the EU withdrawal agreement.
What is an EORI number used for?
The code is used to identify your business for tax and customs purposes. Without one, you cannot complete customs declarations (even if you have someone deal with customs for you), use customs systems such as the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system and the Import Control System Northern Ireland (ICS NI), or apply for a customs decision.
If your business moves goods to or from NI, you may also have to apply for a secondary EORI number (starting with XI).
In special circumstances, you may also need to register for an EORI number in the Member State you are trading with or if you are applying for a customs decision in that state (except if you already have an EORI number starting with XI).
How can I register for an EORI number?
To register for an EORI number starting with GB, click here.
For any other Member State, please visit their national customs domain. A full list of domains can be found here.
Get expert advice
For help and advice with related matters, please get in touch with our expert Brexit advisory team today.
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