What Is an EORI Number?
An EORI number is required for any business importing or exporting goods. Learn how to get one and when you need it.
Key Takeaways
- EORI stands for Economic Operator Registration and Identification
- Any UK business importing or exporting goods commercially must have a GB EORI number
- It is free and can be obtained from HMRC in minutes via the Gov.uk website
- Without an EORI number your goods cannot be cleared through UK customs
What an EORI number is
An Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number is a unique identifier required for any business or individual trading goods internationally. In the UK, a GB EORI number begins with GB followed by the business's VAT number and three additional digits. It is required on all customs declarations — import and export — and without one your goods cannot be cleared through UK customs.
Who needs an EORI number
Any UK business that imports goods into, or exports goods from, the UK commercially must have a GB EORI number. This applies regardless of the value or frequency of international shipments — even a single import requires one. If you sell into Northern Ireland or trade with the EU, you may also need an XI EORI number for Northern Ireland movements and potentially an EU EORI number for movements within the EU.
How to get an EORI number
Apply for a GB EORI number at gov.uk/eori. The application is free and takes around 5-10 minutes. If your business is VAT-registered in the UK, your EORI number will typically be your VAT number prefixed with GB and suffixed with 000. Non-VAT-registered businesses can still apply using their Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR). Most applications are processed immediately — you receive your EORI number by email within minutes.
EORI and your customs agent
Your freight forwarder or customs broker needs your EORI number to make customs declarations on your behalf. Provide it when setting up your account with any freight or logistics provider. If you use Amazon FBA or other marketplace fulfilment services that import goods on your behalf, they will also need your EORI number. Keep it safe and consistent — your EORI is linked to all your customs records with HMRC.
Post-Brexit EORI requirements
Since Brexit, UK businesses trading with the EU need a GB EORI number for UK customs and may additionally need an EU EORI number for customs declarations within EU member states. EU EORI numbers are issued by the customs authority of any EU member state — if you regularly import into Germany, apply for a DE EORI number from the German customs authority (Bundeszollverwaltung). Your freight forwarder can advise on which EU EORI numbers your specific trade lanes require.