An EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number is a unique identification number that helps to track goods and identify the company or individual involved in international trade within the EU and the UK. It is a legal requirement for any business or individual importing or exporting. It also helps avoid significant delays and additional costs.
What is the Purpose of an EORI?
An EORI number allows businesses and individuals to send goods outside the UK, submit declarations (which can be filed by an agent on their behalf), and get authorised for a customs simplification process.
When Do You Not Need an EORI Number?
You do not need to apply for this number if
- You already have one
- You will not be sending goods outside the UK
- You will only trade with Northern Ireland or across the Ireland border
- You will just be importing and exporting products that do not involve any physical movements of goods.
If a business only imports or exports goods valued at less than 1,000 euros, it may not need an EORI number. However, if the value of goods exceeds this amount, an EORI number will be required.
You may need an EORI number if you trade
- between Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) or the Isle of Man and any other country (including the EU)
- between Great Britain and Northern Ireland
- between Great Britain and the Channel Islands
- between Northern Ireland and countries outside the EU
WHAT Do I Need to Apply For an EORI?
You will require the following to apply for one
- VAT number and the effective date of registration
- National Insurance Number โ needed if you are a small business sole trader or an individual.
- Your 10 Digit UTR (Unique Tax Reference ) number
- Business start date and SIC code (Standard Industrial Classification), which you can find on companies house
- You will require a government gateway ID to apply for an EORI;ย
What Does an EORI Number Look Like?
The format of an EORI number may vary depending on the country of issuance. EORI numbers in the UK begin with the letter โGBโ followed by a 12-digit number linked with the tradeโs VAT number. A French number starts with the letter FR, followed by 12 digits. A German EORI number, on the other hand, starts with the letter DE, followed by a 10-digit number.
It is crucial to ensure the EORI number is correct and valid before using it for customs declarations.ย You can check the validity of Your EORI number using the online EORI validation service. An error in the EORI number can cause delays and additional costs for the import or export of goods.
Importance of Having an EORI Number
Here are some key reasons why this number is important
Completing Customs Declarations
The EORI number is required to complete customs declarations. Without an EORI number, you will not be able to complete these declarations, which can further delay your imports or exports. The EORI number was introduced to simplify and streamline customs procedures for businesses trading within the EU. With a unique identification number, businesses can more easily comply with customs regulations.
Identifying the Company or Individual
The number is used to identify the company or individual when dealing with customs authorities. This helps ensure that the correct business or individual is associated with the goods imported or exported. It increases brand trust and also helps you get more business as it avoids any delays of orders being shipped or dispatched.
Tracking Goods and Legal Requirements
The number tracks goods as they move across borders. This helps customs authorities ensure that goods are imported and exported legally. The EORI number is a legal requirement for any business or individual importing or exporting goods within the EU. Failure to obtain an EORI number can result in significant delays and additional costs, as your goods may be held at the border because of lack of identification.
Checking the Validity of an EORI Number in the UK
Importance of Validating an EORI Number
A valid and active EORI number is essential to preventing delays and extra fees during customs declarations. If you use an invalid EORI number, your import or export activities may be seriously disrupted and your items held at the border.
How to Check the Validity of an EORI Number
Online Validation Service
An EORI number can be verified online using the facility provided by the European Commission. EORI number validity and ongoing activity are confirmed by this service.
Procedures for EORI Number Validation
Visit the website for EORI validation maintained by the European Commission.
To validate an EORI number, enter it in the search box on the website.
To find out the EORI number’s status, click “Validate.”
If more information is available, the system will indicate if the EORI number is legitimate.
Clear House Accountants are specialist business accountants in London that specialise in working with importing and exporting businesses, d2c e-commerce businesses and shipping freight and logistic companies. Our specialist industry knowledge enables us to add value for these clients at each stage of their business cycles. Our bespoke solutions will ensure that you stay compliant and prepared for all changes within the industry.
