Do you sell products through your online store to non-EU countries like Norway, Russia, or Switzerland? Or are you planning to expand into international markets soon? Then you’ll need an EORI number for customs declarations outside the EU!
But what exactly is this number, and how do you use it when shipping internationally? We’ve put together a complete guide to answer all your key questions about the EORI number.
Here’s what you’ll find in this blog:
- What is an EORI number
- How and why is it used?
- Who needs an EORI number?
- What does an EORI number look like?
- How do I apply for it?
- How long does it take, and what does it cost?
- How can I change my EORI number?
- What should I do if I lose my EORI number??
- Conclusion: Start your international shipping journey with an EORI number today!
What is the EORI Number?
The EORI number is a unique identifier used for registering and tracking customs information in trade with non-EU countries. This number allows for faster exchange of information with customs authorities outside the EU.
EORI stands for “Economic Operators Registration and Identification number.” You’ll need this number for shipping from Europe to countries like China, the USA, or Australia.
How and why is the EORI Number used?
The EORI number is a crucial part of your shipping documents when sending packages from the EU to non-EU countries. Customs authorities use this number to identify who is importing or exporting goods.
If you’re working with a customs broker, you must always provide them with this number.
Got an online store and ship your goods through a platform like Sendcloud? You can simply add your EORI number to your sender address. Sendcloud then will automatically include it in your customs forms.
Who needs an EORI Number?
If you’re a business trading with non-EU countries – whether you’re importing or exporting – you need an EORI number. This applies to all European businesses within the EU, including sole traders, partnerships, and larger companies. It also includes online shops trading with countries outside Europe.
All of these must submit a customs declaration CN22 or CN23 and a commercial invoice along with the correct EORI number. This number helps customs authorities quickly process your declaration.
Curious about how to speed up your packages through customs clearance? Check out our latest blog post!
When don’t I need to apply for an EORI Number?
If you’re part of a larger holding group, you won’t need your own number because you’ll be trading through the parent company. The same goes for branches and business premises in Europe – they’re identified by the company’s headquarters number plus a four-digit branch number.
Private individuals also don’t need this number for shipping products outside the EU.
Good to know: For the exchange of digital services with non-EU countries, you don’t need an EORI number in any EU country.
Is the number mandatory?
Yes, an EORI number is mandatory for all businesses shipping goods outside the EU.
If you don’t have an EORI number and still trade with non-EU countries, you risk fines and significant delays in your shipments.
How to find out if I already have an EORI Number
Not sure if your business already has a valid EORI number? You can check this in the European Union database.
However, due to data privacy reasons, you can’t just enter your company name online and see if an EORI number pops up.
It’s best to contact the EORI hotline at or send an email. These are specifically set up for all questions related to existing EORI numbers and general inquiries on the topic.
What does an EORI Number look like?
An EORI number can easily be confused with a VAT identification number or excise number. Like these numbers, the EORI number starts with the country code.
Depending on the country, the country code is followed by 7-15 digits. The German EORI number, for example, is 15 digits long, the UK one 14.
EORI Number examples for EU countries:
| Country | Country code | Number of digits | EORI number example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | DE | 15 | DE123456789012345 |
| France | FR | 14 | FR12345678901234 |
| Ireland | IE | 7 | IE1234567 |
| Italy | IT | 11 | IT12345678901 |
| Croatia | HR | 9 | HR123456789 |
| Luxembourg | LU | 8 | LU12345678 |
| Malta | MT | 8 | MT12345678 |
| Netherlands | NL | 9 | NL123456789 |
| Austria | ATEO | 11 | ATEO12345678901 |
| Poland | PL | 14 (+Z) | PL12345678901234Z |
| Spain | ES(A/B) | 8 | ESA12345678 |
| Czech Republic | CZ | 11 | CZ12345678901 |
| Hungary | HU | 8 | HU12345678 |
Extra tip: Check out your business partners’ EORI numbers and match the country code with the table. This way, you’ll know where your partners are from.
EORI vs. VAT Identification Number
These two numbers are different identification systems, so they are not the same.
However, if you have a VAT identification number, it’s linked to your EORI number.
In some countries, the VAT identification number is actually the same as the EORI number (e.g., in Luxembourg).
How to apply for an EORI Number
If you do not have an EORI number, you can request one for free from the customs authorities of your country. The procedure for receiving an EORI number differs depending on your member state. Below are some helpful links for applying for an EORI number based on your country:
How long does the application take?
Time is money, and of course, you want to know when you can start your international shipping journey.
Rule of thumb: You can expect it to take about 3-4 weeks until your EORI number is processed by the relevant authority.
How much does the application cost?
The application for your EORI number for international shipping costs you just a bit of time to fill out the form. Other than that, the EORI number is issued free of charge by the customs authorities.
How can I change my EORI Number?
Changing an EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number involves a few steps, but it’s important to note that typically, you cannot change the EORI number itself as it’s a unique identifier assigned to your business. However, if you need to update the details associated with your EORI number (such as your business address, contact information, or company name), you can do so by following these steps:
- Contact the relevant authority to inform them of the changes you need to make
- Provide the necessary documentation or information to update your business details.
- Note: In some cases, if the changes are substantial (like a change in the legal structure of the business), you might need to cancel your existing EORI number and apply for a new one.
- After submitting the changes, you’ll receive confirmation from the customs authority that your details have been updated.
- After updating your EORI details, make sure to inform any relevant parties (such as your logistics providers, partners, or customers) of the change to avoid any disruption in your import/export activities.
Some countries allow you to update your EORI details online through their respective customs portals.
Conclusion: Start your international shipping journey with your EORI Number!
With an EORI number, you’re well-equipped for international shipping. It’s essential for customs clearance and helps you ship your goods smoothly to non-EU countries. The application is straightforward and free, and with the right information, you can complete the process quickly.
For even more efficient international shipping, consider using a shipping platform like Sendcloud. Sendcloud’s international shipping automatically integrates your EORI number into all necessary customs forms and ensures your international shipments run smoothly. Save time and reduce the risk of errors and delays. Try it for free now 👇
Want to learn more about international shipping? Check out our blog for more helpful articles on topics like Incoterms, HS codes, or how to localize your customer experience!
