To move goods into or out of the EU you need an Economic Operator and Registration Identification (EORI) number.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) uses this number to identify you and collect duty on your goods.
You may have increased costs and delays if you do not get an EORI number. For example, if HMRC cannot clear your goods you may have to pay storage fees.
If the UK leaves the EU without a deal, you’ll need a UK EORI number to continue trading with the EU after 29 March 2019. You can apply for an EORI number now, even if you do not use it.
You can check the status of an application you have already made.
Before you apply
Check if you need to register for VAT before you apply.
To apply you may need your:
- VAT number and effective date of registration – these are on your VAT registration certificate
- National Insurance number – if you’re an individual or a sole trader
- Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR)
- business start date and Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code – these are in the Companies House register
- Government Gateway user ID and password
- If you need a Government Gateway user ID, use either:
- the one for your business or organisation
- your own if you’re applying as an individual
If you do not already have a user ID, you’ll be able to create one when you apply.
Apply for an EORI number
It takes 5 to 10 minutes to apply for an EORI number. You may get the number immediately, but it could take up to 3 working days if HMRC needs to make more checks.
For further assistance by one of our VAT specialists – email enquiries@avantigroup.uk.com