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EORI Number Explained: Essential for EU-UK Post-Brexit Trade

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Since Brexit, the EORI number has become a critical requirement for businesses trading between the EU and the United Kingdom. Without it, companies cannot legally import or export goods across borders. This applies not only to large logistics operations but also to small e-commerce businesses and online retailers.

An EORI number ensures that your goods can be declared to customs authorities and tracked efficiently through the EU’s customs systems. If you’re doing business internationally  especially with the EU or UK having the right EORI setup is no longer optional; it’s a fundamental compliance step.

What Is an EORI Number and Why It Matters

EORI stands for Economic Operators Registration and Identification number. It is a unique code assigned by customs authorities in the EU or UK to identify businesses and individuals involved in cross-border trade. An EORI number is required every time goods enter or leave the EU or UK.

It enables customs to process shipments, collect duties, track movements, and ensure regulatory compliance. Without an EORI number, you will not be able to complete the customs declaration process, which means your goods may be delayed, returned, or even confiscated at the border.

Who Needs an EORI Number Today?

Post-Brexit, the number of businesses needing an EORI number has grown significantly. The following categories must have one to trade goods internationally:

  • UK businesses exporting goods to the EU

  • EU-based businesses importing goods from the UK

  • Logistics companies, freight forwarders, and customs brokers

  • Online sellers shipping physical products across EU-UK borders

  • Non-EU businesses importing into or exporting from any EU country

If you’re a UK business trading with the EU, you will need a GB EORI number. If you are an EU-based business importing from the UK, you’ll need an EU EORI often issued by your country’s national customs authority.

In some cases, businesses may need both a UK and an EU EORI number, depending on their operations.

What an EORI Number Looks Like

The format of an EORI number usually includes a country prefix followed by a unique identifier. For example:

  • UK: GB123456789000

  • Germany: DE123456789

  • France: FR123456789

It is important that your EORI number is correctly formatted and corresponds with your VAT number where applicable. Inaccuracies can cause customs clearance delays or compliance issues.

How to Apply for an EORI Number

Applying for an EORI number is usually a simple online process through your national customs authority. For EU countries, this is typically handled by the local tax or customs office. In the UK, businesses apply through HMRC’s EORI portal.

You’ll need to provide your VAT number (if registered), company details, and trading activity information. Once submitted, most applications are processed within a few working days.

Your EORI number will then be issued electronically and must be used for all future customs declarations. Non-EU companies must apply in the first EU country they interact with for customs purposes, often the port of entry or the location of their appointed customs representative.

Why the EORI Number Is Critical for Post-Brexit Trade

The separation of the UK from the EU customs union means that all goods moving between the two now require full customs declarations. Prior to Brexit, intra-EU trade was frictionless. Now, each shipment requires documentation, VAT declarations, and compliance with import/export protocols. Without an EORI number:

  • Goods cannot be cleared by customs

  • Import VAT cannot be reclaimed

  • Shipping carriers may refuse to transport the goods

  • Fines or delays may occur

  • Your clients may face extra fees or delays on delivery

In the competitive world of e-commerce and global trade, these risks are unacceptable. Ensuring you have a valid EORI number, and that your supply chain partners do too, is a basic yet vital step.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though applying is simple, many businesses make mistakes that cause customs problems. Avoid the following:

  • Assuming your VAT number is your EORI number (they are different)

  • Using the wrong country code or an expired number

  • Not updating your EORI after a business name or address change

  • Shipping goods before your EORI is active and valid

  • Failing to check if your logistics provider has a valid EORI

Being proactive about EORI management prevents unnecessary delays and ensures smoother cross-border operations.

The Link Between EORI and VAT

While EORI and VAT numbers serve different purposes, they are often connected. For example, when reclaiming import VAT or using special schemes like IOSS, the EORI number may be required alongside your VAT ID.

Inaccurate or unlinked information can trigger red flags in the customs system or lead to delayed VAT reclaims. This is especially relevant for businesses using deferred import VAT schemes or special customs procedures.

Aligning Your Business with EU-UK Customs Rules

Having a valid and properly managed EORI number is a non-negotiable requirement for any business operating across the EU-UK border.

It allows goods to move without delay, ensures you remain compliant with EU and UK customs law, and supports transparent trading practices.

Whether you’re a small Shopify seller, a growing B2B distributor, or a logistics firm managing multiple clients, EORI compliance is a foundational part of your cross-border strategy. Taking care of it now will save time, money, and customer frustration in the long run.