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EORI stands for Economic Operators Registration and Identification. Put simply, you need this number to ship internationally, specifically in or out of the European Union. What is an EORI number used for? That, and everything else you need to know will be answered in this blog.
What Is an EORI Number UK?
The EORI number is a unique code for businesses engaged in international trade within the European Union and the UK. EORI stands for Economic Operators Registration and Identification and is crucial for various purposes.
This number allows customs authorities to easily identify and track companies’ activities, identify the beneficial owners, and detect fraud and sanctioned entities. It also helps businesses optimize their supply chains and improve their overall efficiency in international trade operations.
When Do You Need an EORI Number?
Put simply, if you are on the Great Britain mainland and move goods to and from European countries or outside them, you will need an EORI number.
Here are some common scenarios where an EORI number is required:
- Transporting goods between Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) and any other country, including EU member states.
- Transporting goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
- Moving goods from Great Britain and the Channel Islands.
- Moving goods from Northern Ireland and countries outside the EU.
Additionally, an EORI number is required to register for an export license.
However, you do not need an EORI number if the goods you are moving are:
- Not controlled goods that do not require specific licenses or permits for export or import.
- If you are moving goods solely for your personal use.
Did You Know? EORI Numbers and Brexit:
- Impact of Brexit: The UK’s withdrawal from the EU in 2020 has introduced new EORI number requirements for businesses trading between the UK and the EU.
- Dual EORI numbers: To facilitate trade, businesses may need to obtain both a UK EORI number and an EU EORI number.
Which EORI Number Should You Get?
The type of EORI number you need and where you get it from depends on where you’re moving goods to and from. You may need more than one.
EU EORI numbers consist of a country code (like FR for France) followed by a unique 9-digit identifier.
UK EORI numbers start with GB and are followed by a 12-digit number. This 12-digit number is often based on your company’s VAT number.
If you’re moving goods to or from Great Britain:
- You must get an EORI number that starts with GB.
- If you already have an EORI number and it does not start with GB, you must apply for a GB EORI number.
If you’re moving goods to or from Northern Ireland:
- You may also need an EORI number starting with XI.
- You do not need an EORI number starting with XI if you already have an EORI number from an EU country.
If your business will be making declarations or getting a customs decision in the EU:
- You will need either:
- An EORI number from an EU country
- An EORI number beginning with XI and a permanent business establishment in Northern Ireland
- You will need to contact the customs authority in an EU country to get an EU EORI number.
- If you cannot get an EORI number that can be used in the EU, you will need to appoint someone to deal with customs on your behalf.
Pro Tip: EORI numbers also facilitate trade agreements to benefit from preferential tariffs or other benefits.
How Do You Get an EORI Number?
To apply for an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number that starts with GB, you will need the following information:
- Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR): This is a 10-digit number that identifies your business with HMRC.
- Business start date and Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code: This information can be found in the Companies House register. The SIC code categorizes your business based on its main activity.
- Your VAT number and effective date of registration (if you’re VAT registered) are on your VAT registration certificate.
- National Insurance number: This is required if you’re an individual or a sole trader.
If your business is not based in the UK, you do not need a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), a Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code, or a National Insurance number.
Here are some additional tips for applying for an EORI number:
- Apply online: The easiest way to apply for an EORI number is online through the HMRC website.
- Allow time for processing: It typically takes a few days for your application to be processed.
- Keep your EORI number safe: Once you receive your EORI number, keep it safe and secure. You will need it for customs declarations and other trade-related activities.
How Do I Find My EORI Number?
If you are a European retailer, reach out to your local customs authorities. If you are a non-European retailer, contact the customs authority of the first EU country your goods will be imported into.
After you have submitted the application, it can take up to 3-5 working days to get your unique EORI number.
You have 3 options for requesting your EORI ID: online, by email, or by post.
Can’t recall yours? Don’t worry. There are a number of ways to find it:
- Check your business records: Look through your company’s files, emails, or correspondence from customs authorities. Your EORI number should be listed on any documents related to international trade.
- Contact your customs authority: Contact the customs authority in your country. Based on your business information, they should be able to provide you with your number.
- Use online tools: Some countries offer online portals where you can search for your EORI number using your business details.
FAQs on EORI Number
VAT is a consumption tax that businesses collect from their customers and then remit to the government. EORI number, on the other hand, is a unique identifier assigned to businesses involved in international trade used by customs territories. Put simply, VAT is a tax you pay when you buy something within the EU, while EORI is an identifier your business needs to trade internationally.
Businesses that trade internationally are eligible for an EORI number. This includes companies that import or export goods, those that handle customs paperwork, and businesses involved in trade deals.
Yes, you can ship without an EORI number, but it will cost you. Without an EORI number, you will experience delays in custom clearance, additional costs, and potential penalties from customs authorities. An EORI number simplifies customs procedures and helps ensure smooth international trade.
Private individuals don’t need an EORI number. While there are rare exceptions for frequent traders or those involved in specific trade agreements, it’s generally not required.
Yes, you can get an EORI number even if you are not VAT-registered. These two are separate requirements. An EORI number is primarily for customs purposes, while VAT registration is related to domestic taxation.
Get Advice for Your Tax Affairs
What is an EORI number and how do you get one? Let Legend Financial help you obtain your EORI number as well as walk you through other customs clearance requirements. We’ll handle all your tax affairs, including cross-border taxes, and ensure your tax returns are filed accurately and on time. Start minimizing your tax liability today. Book an initial, no-obligation phone call with us now!
