What is an EORI Number?
In a nutshell, an Economic Operators Registration & Identification (EORI) number is an identifying code used to track and register customs information in the EU.
Your business needs an EORI number if it is based in Great Britain (that's England, Scotland, Wales) or the Isle of Man and sells goods to customers in any other country, including the EU.
Why Do You Need an EORI Number?
An EORI number is essential for businesses that trade internationally as it simplifies customs processes. Without it, your goods could face delays, additional costs, or even be held at customs.
Having an EORI number ensures your shipments can be tracked, identified, and processed efficiently by customs authorities across the EU and other countries.
Who Needs an EORI Number?
An EORI number is needed if your business sends goods from:
Great Britain or the Isle of Man to any other country (including the EU)
Great Britain to Northern Ireland
Great Britain to the Channel Islands
Northern Ireland to countries outside the EU
Your business needs an EORI number to :
Make customs declarations within the EU or appoint an intermediary to make customs declarations on your behalf within the EU
Apply for a customs decision
What Type of EORI Do I Need?
If your business is based in the UK, your EORI number must start with 'GB'. If you already have an EORI number that doesn't start with 'GB', (for example, from an EU Member State) you need to apply for a 'GB' EORI number.
EORI Application
Apply for a 'GB' EORI'GB' EORI Checklist
Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) (What is this?)
Business start date and Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code (What is this?)
Government Gateway user ID and password (What is this?)
VAT number and registration date. This can be found on your VAT registration certificate.
National Insurance number (if you're an individual or sole trader)
Our Top Tips:
Applying for your 'GB' EORI number is easy, just make sure you have all necessary documents together first. To help out, we've put together a handy checklist of everything you need to register your business for a 'GB' EORI.
Northern Ireland
If your business moves goods to and from Northern Ireland or is based in Northern Ireland, you may need an additional EORI number starting with 'XI'.
Still unsure? Check your eligibility for an 'XI' (Northern Ireland) EORI Number.
Apply for an 'XI' EORIApply for an 'XI' EORI
So, you have your 'GB' EORI number, and have established that you need an 'XI' EORI.
Next, you need to fill in this application form.
Once you've completed the application, you should get your 'XI' EORI within 4 days.
You can find more information from the EU on EORI requirements by clicking below.
Find out more
Our Top Tips:
You don't need an EORI number if you're moving goods for personal use.
GPSR: Updated General Product Safety Regulations
As of 13th December 2024, new regulations have been introduced to enhance product safety for consumers and provide clearer guidelines for businesses shipping to the EU and NI. The question on most peoples mind is Does GPSR Apply to Me?
The key change for UK-based businesses and online sellers is the requirement to appoint a ‘responsible person’ based in the EU or NI. This individual is responsible for overseeing compliance and product safety requirements. Additionally, all packaging must adhere to GPSR labelling regulations.
