EORI Number: What It Is and Why It’s Needed

An EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) is a unique registration ID used by customs authorities in the EU (and UK) to track and identify importers and exporters. Any business involved in international trade with the EU or UK is generally required to have an EORI number for customs declarations and shipments. In essence, it acts like a customs “tax ID” for companies, enabling customs officials to quickly reference a trader’s information in all member states. For example, if a company in the UK is shipping goods to an EU country, both the exporter and importer need EORI numbers to lodge import/export declarations and to clear the goods through customs. Without a valid EORI, shipments can be delayed at the border or even refused, since customs systems will not accept the declarations.

The EORI system was introduced in the EU in 2009 to streamline trade by using one common identification number across all EU customs offices. Post-Brexit, the UK now issues its own EORI numbers (prefixed “GB”) for trade with the EU and other countries, while EU businesses use an EU-prefixed number – companies trading across UK-EU may need both registrations. Obtaining an EORI is typically a simple online application with the national customs authority, and it links to a company’s VAT/tax details. In summary, an EORI number is essential for customs clearance, enabling authorities to easily identify parties to a shipment, assess duties/taxes, and exchange information. Using an EORI helps ensure smoother customs processing and compliance with regulations, which is why it’s mandatory for virtually all commercial imports or exports involving the EU or UK.