EORI number information

An EORI number is short for Economic Operators Registration and Identification number and is a unique number throughout the EU. It is assigned by customs to a company or individual for import and export.

An EORI number is made up of a country code, to show where the organisation or individual is registered, and a unique code or number.

It is used by customs and other authorities to monitor and track shipments coming into and out of the EU. Created by the EU in 2009, the scheme helps different customs authorities share information with each other, speeding up customs checks and improving security. To trade internationally, an organisation or individual based in the EU needs to have an EORI number.

Yes, it is a requirement that all businesses importing or exporting goods in the EU have one.

Go to your country’s customs website and register for one online. It normally takes around three days for the number to be issued so it is best to apply a few weeks before shipping.

Before submitting your application for a new EORI number, you should check whether your centre is already registered. If your centre is registered for VAT, you may have already been issued an EORI number automatically. EORI numbers are permanently associated with the organisation they are issued to – so you will not get another EORI number if you have forgotten yours.

You can check if your centre already has an EORI number.

If we send you documents only, it is unlikely you will need an EORI number because documents are non-dutiable and VAT should not apply. However, we still advise you to apply for an EORI number as some imports may contain dutiable items.

There should be no reason why you can’t get one.

You must still get an EORI number and this is possible even if you are not VAT registered. You should apply on your country's customs website.

You must still get an EORI number, and this is possible even if you are not VAT registered. You should apply on your country's customs website.

It will depend on the country. You should check the member states customs website for more advice.

Yes, we will contact you when we need your EORI number.

VAT will be due on all non-document shipments from the UK to the EU.

The contents of the shipment and the service used will determine whether the shipment will be dutiable.

You will need to have an EORI number to receive all imports as some may contain dutiable items.

The Cambridge Handbook will only be available in digital format from 2024.

Yes, VAT will be applied.

Yes, VAT will be applied.

We advise any centres in Northern Ireland to check the UK government website for HMRC guidelines on trading with Northern Ireland.