If your business imports or exports goods, you may need an EORI number UK registration before you can complete customs procedures. An EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) is a unique identification number used by customs authorities to identify businesses and individuals involved in international trade.
Whether you are importing products from overseas suppliers, exporting goods to customers abroad, or managing customs declarations on behalf of clients, having the correct EORI registration helps ensure your goods move through customs smoothly.
This guide explains:
- What an EORI number is
- What EORI stands for
- Who needs an EORI number in the UK
- How to apply for an EORI number
- How to check an EORI number
- The difference between GB and XI EORI numbers
- Common questions about EORI registration
What Is an EORI Number?
An EORI number is a unique reference number issued by customs authorities to businesses and individuals involved in importing and exporting goods.
EORI stands for:
Economic Operators Registration and Identification number
The number is used by:
- HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC)
- Customs authorities
- Businesses involved in international trade
to identify economic operators during customs declarations and clearance procedures.
An EORI number helps customs authorities track goods entering or leaving the UK and ensures that import and export processes are handled correctly.
What Does EORI Stand For?
Many businesses search for “what does EORI stand for” when they first encounter customs requirements.
EORI means Economic Operators Registration and Identification.
Each registered business receives a unique identification number that is linked to its customs activities. This number is required when submitting customs declarations for goods moving between the UK and other countries.
Why Do You Need an EORI Number in the UK?
An EORI number is required because customs authorities use it to identify businesses involved in cross-border trade.
Without a valid EORI number, your business may experience delays when importing or exporting goods.
An EORI number helps with:
- Customs declarations
- Import and export documentation
- Customs clearance
- International shipments
- Tracking trade transactions
- Meeting UK customs regulations
For businesses trading internationally, EORI registration is an essential part of maintaining customs compliance.
Who Needs an EORI Number?
You generally need an EORI number UK if you:
- Import goods into Great Britain
- Export goods from Great Britain
- Submit customs declarations
- Use a customs agent or freight forwarder
- Move goods internationally for business purposes
Businesses that commonly require an EORI number include:
Importers and Exporters
Companies buying products from overseas suppliers or selling goods to customers outside the UK need an EORI number for customs procedures.
Examples include:
- Online retailers importing stock
- Manufacturers purchasing raw materials
- Businesses exporting finished products
- Wholesalers trading internationally
Freight and Logistics Businesses
Companies involved in transportation, logistics, or customs brokerage may need an EORI number to manage customs operations.
Non-UK Businesses Trading With the UK
Businesses based outside the UK may also need an EORI number if they carry out customs activities involving UK imports or exports.
Do I Need an EORI Number If I Have a VAT Number?
An EORI number and VAT number are different registrations.
A VAT number is used for VAT reporting and tax purposes, while an EORI number is used for customs identification.
However, VAT-registered businesses often receive an EORI number linked to their VAT registration.
For example, a UK VAT-registered business may receive a GB EORI number in the following format:
GB + VAT number + 000
Example:
GB123456789000
If you are unsure whether you already have an EORI number, you can check your details through HMRC services.
Types of EORI Numbers in the UK
Following Brexit, businesses may need different types of EORI numbers depending on where goods are moving.
GB EORI Number
A GB EORI number is required for businesses moving goods between Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) and countries outside the UK.
It is commonly used for:
- Importing goods into Great Britain
- Exporting goods from Great Britain
- Customs declarations
XI EORI Number
An XI EORI number applies to businesses moving goods involving Northern Ireland.
Businesses may need an XI EORI number when trading between:
- Northern Ireland and non-EU countries
- Northern Ireland and certain EU customs territories
The correct EORI type depends on your trading activities and location.
How to Apply for an EORI Number UK?
Applying for an EORI number is completed online through the UK Government and HMRC registration service.
The application process usually requires:
- Business details
- Contact information
- VAT registration details (if applicable)
- Company registration information
- Import and export activity details
Steps to Apply for an EORI Number
1. Check Whether You Already Have an EORI Number
Before applying, check whether HMRC has already issued an EORI number for your business.
Some VAT-registered businesses may already have one.
2. Complete the Online Application
Provide details about:
- Your business
- Trading activities
- VAT registration
- Contact information
3. Submit Your Application
After submitting your details, HMRC reviews your application.
Most applications are processed within:
3 to 5 working days
Your EORI number is normally sent by email once approved.
How to Check an EORI Number
Businesses often search for “where to find EORI number” or “do I have an EORI number” before completing customs paperwork.
You can check your EORI status by:
- Reviewing previous HMRC correspondence
- Checking your business customs records
- Using the official EORI checker service
An EORI number check helps confirm whether your registration is active and valid for customs operations.
You may need to verify an EORI number before:
- Importing goods
- Exporting products
- Completing customs declarations
- Working with freight providers
How to Update or Cancel an EORI Number?
Your EORI details should remain accurate to avoid customs delays.
You may need to update your EORI information if you:
- Change your business address
- Change your business name
- Change VAT registration details
- Stop trading internationally
- Close your business
You can update your details through HMRC services.
If your business no longer requires customs registration, you may request cancellation of your EORI number.
EORI Number Application Cost and Processing Time
There is no charge to apply for an EORI number in the UK.
The usual processing time is:
- Around 3 to 5 working days
However, applications may take longer if HMRC needs additional information.
Applying before you begin international trade helps prevent delays with customs clearance.
Common Problems With EORI Registration
Businesses may face issues if:
- Their EORI details are incorrect
- Their VAT information does not match HMRC records
- They attempt customs declarations without registration
- They use an expired or incorrect EORI number
Keeping your customs information updated helps prevent unnecessary delays and compliance issues.
Disclaimer: All the information provided in this article on what is an EORI number, including all the texts and graphics, is general in nature. It does not intend to disregard any of the professional advice.
Final Thoughts
An EORI number UK is an essential requirement for many businesses involved in international trade. Whether you import goods, export products, or manage customs declarations, having the correct EORI registration helps your business meet UK customs requirements.
Understanding what an EORI number is, who needs one, and how to apply can help prevent delays and ensure smoother international trading operations.
Disclaimer: All the information provided in this article on what is an EORI number, including all the texts and graphics, is general in nature. It does not intend to disregard any of the professional advice.
