What is an EORI Number (UK)?
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EORI is an acronym for Economic Operator Registration and Identification. This is an identification number assigned to import and export business operators to track and register custom information for businesses operating within the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
An EORI number is assigned by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) which oversees customs declarations, duties, and tariffs for businesses involved in international trade.
EORI numbers are only for goods and not for services. However, if you offer services and your company starts importing or exporting physical goods you will need to register for an EORI number before you start shipping.
Why do I need an EORI number?
You need an EORI number if your business imports or exports goods in or out of the European Union (EU). An EORI number tracks and monitors cross-border trade activities and customs declarations.
To ensure compliance with international trade regulations that govern the import and export of goods. International trade regulations include tariffs, customs duties, licensing requirements, trade agreements, and restrictions in the import and export business.
Who needs an EORI number?
You may need an EORI number if you move goods
· Between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
· Between Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) or the Isle of Man and any other country (including the EU).
· Between Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) or the Isle of Man and any other country (including the EU).
· Between Northern Ireland and countries outside the EU.
· Between Great Britain and the Channel Islands.
Additionally, you may need an EORI number if you make a customs declaration by either appointing someone to do it on your behalf or using customs systems, such as the CHIEF system and the Import Control System Northern Ireland (ICS NI).
You’ll need an EORI number if your business is based in the country where you’re importing or exporting from. However, the company must be a registered office or a central headquarters, or it must be a permanent business establishment where customs-related activities occur, and HR and technical resources are permanently located.
Even if your business is not based in the relevant country, you should still get an EORI number if you’re making customs declarations (e.g., for transit, temporary admission), applying for customs decisions, acting as a carrier for transporting goods by sea, inland waterway, or air, connected to the customs system and want notifications regarding declarations, and established in a common transit country where declarations are lodged.
Do EORI numbers differ from one country to another?
EORI numbers issued by the customs authorities of the specific country where your business is based differ from country to country.
It consists of two parts which are the country code of the issuing member state followed by a unique number or code. The type of EORI number you should use depends on where you’re moving goods to and from.
If you are trading out of Great Britain, you will need an EORI number that starts with GB and for businesses moving goods to or from Northern Ireland, you will need an EORI number that starts with XI. EU EORI numbers start with the respective two-letter country code, for example, FR for France. The code identifies businesses engaged in international trade, customs operations, and related activities.
Having an incorrect EORI number can create delays in your consignment to be released by the customs department.
In what circumstances do I not need an EORI number?
You do not need an EORI number if you’re moving goods that are not controlled (goods that don’t fall under specific regulatory restrictions). You also do not need an EORI number if the goods you’re moving are strictly for personal use.
If you’re based in the Channel Islands and move goods to or from the UK, you do not need an EORI number unless you use HMRC’s customs systems like Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF).
What happens if I don’t get an EORI number for my business?
If you don’t get an EORI number for your business you will incur heavy fees for any custom clearance, return shipping, and storage. Additionally, your goods will be stuck at the border and you will not be able to access them.
Your business will experience delays causing operational challenges, customer dissatisfaction, and financial losses.
How can my business obtain an EORI number?
You’ll typically need one if you’re involved in international trade, moving goods between countries, or applying for customs decisions.
Gather all necessary information, such as your company name, address, contact details, goods being imported such as the quantity and value, supplier details, freight or courier agent, and the type of customs activities you will be engaged in before the application process.
With minimum documentation requirements, we can help you get an EORI number quickly, whether you are a UK or non UK resident. We can provide guidance and help you get the EORI number you need quickly and without any hassles at an affordable rate of £24.99 inclusive of VAT.
How long will it take to get my EORI number?
Getting an EORI number can take up to a week, however, Icon Offices will help you get it fast without hassle. We have a streamlined process for obtaining EORI numbers, ensuring minimal delays for your business operations.
How many times do I need to apply for an EORI number?
You will only need to apply for an EORI number once per business, that is if your business expands into other countries and you are required to hold an EORI number issued by those countries. Also, an EORI number does not expire and is valid for all your import and export activities within the EU.
In conclusion, an EORI number is crucial for businesses engaged in import and export activities within the EU. You can obtain one through Icon Offices where we will save you time and hassle. Contact us today and learn more about how we can assist you in obtaining an EORI number for your business to ensure operations run smoothly.