EORI number

An EORI number is an EU code that identifies your company as an importer or exporter. Learn more, and find out how to acquire your EORI number here.

When importing or exporting goods from the EU, there are several considerations you need to take into account.

One of them is that you need to have an EORI number.

Keep reading to learn what an EORI number is, how to obtain it, and how to handle a GB EORI number and customs.

While we aim to provide valuable insights on EORI numbers for importers and exporters, regulations can change. For accuracy and up-to-date information, please verify details with official EU, UK, or customs authorities’ websites, especially for legal or business purposes.

Why do I need an EORI number?

When importing or exporting goods to or from the EU, your company needs to use an EORI number.

If a company does not have an EORI number, goods cannot be imported or exported to or from the EU.

This is due to initiatives introduced by the EU in 2009 in the area of customs to focus more on security and health.

When shipping packages abroad, it is important to comply with all regulations. Therefore, there are several things you should consider before creating your export or import shipment.

What is an EORI number?

EORI stands for “Economic Operators’ Registration and Identification” and refers to a common EU register that your company must be registered in if you want to import or export goods to or from the EU.

The EORI number is unique and is used to identify your company unambiguously throughout the EU so that other customs authorities can recognize you.

How do I acquire an EORI number?

You are probably wondering now, where do I find my EORI number?

The first step is to register your company as an importer or exporter. After that, you will be assigned an EORI number.

An EORI number consists of a country code and 1-15 digits or letters.

As an example, let’s consider a Danish EORI number:

In Denmark, a common practice is to use companies’ CVR number (VAT number) as their EORI numbers by adding “DK” in front of the VAT number (e.g., DK12345678). If your company doesn’t have a VAT number, the SE number will serve as the EORI number.

You can also register your company for “other customs activities” if your company does not need to be registered for import and export, but still requires an EORI number.

This can, for example, be for legal purposes.

If you are importing or exporting from the United Kingdom, you also need a GB EORI number. More information about this later.

When do I need to use my EORI number?

You need to use your EORI number to document that you are registered for import or export.

The number ensures that your company’s identification is clear and definitive in all EU countries. It is utilized when customs formalities are conducted in an EU country other than your origin or destination of export/import.

Therefore, in most cases, you only need to provide this number during import and export.

Import and export to and from the United Kingdom

As you know, the United Kingdom is no longer part of the EU, and if you are doing business in the UK and want to import or export goods, you need a GB EORI number - regardless of whether you are VAT registered in the UK or not.

From January 1, 2021, only EORI numbers starting with GB are accepted when trading goods between the UK and the EU, as well as non-EU countries. When exporting goods from the UK to the EU or vice versa, you must include your EORI number on your invoice to ensure a smooth process.

What is a GB EORI number?

A GB EORI number is the same as a regular EORI number, but with GB in front, indicating that you are allowed to export/import in Great Britain.

If you already have an EORI number that does not start with GB, you need to apply for one from the British authorities.

When do I need to use my GB EORI number?

You need to use your GB EORI number if your company is located in the United Kingdom and you are exporting or importing goods from other countries.

If you do not have a company in the United Kingdom but need to export from another country, you also need to apply for a GB EORI number.

You can find the application form on gov.uk.

How do I set up an EORI number on my Shipmondo account?

It is easy and quick to add both your EU EORI number and your GB EORI number to your Shipmondo account.

Once you have added your EORI number to your account, it will automatically be included on your customs documents when you book shipments through Shipmondo.

We have created a complete guide on how to set up a GB EORI number right here.

If you do not have an account with Shipmondo, you can create one for free. No subscription and no commitment.

You can book freight across carriers as soon as your account is created.