What Is an EORI Number? A Simple Guide for Small Businesses

An EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) is a unique ID used by customs authorities to track and process shipments moving between countries.

If you move goods between the UK and other countries, you'll need an EORI number before you can clear customs. Without one, shipments can be delayed, held, or returned, which can cost your business time and money.

In this guide, we explain what an EORI number is, who needs one, how to get it, and what happens if you try to trade internationally without one.

Key points

• Most UK businesses moving goods across borders need an EORI number 🌍
  If you import, export, or handle goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland under customs rules, you'll need an EORI number regardless of your business size.
• You may need both a UK and an EU EORI 💶
  Trading between the UK and the EU often requires two numbers – one for UK customs and one issued by an EU country where your goods are processed.
• Applying is free and usually quick ⚡
  You can apply online through HMRC in minutes, and most numbers are issued within a few days.
• Having the right setup saves time, money, and stress 🚀
  Delays, storage fees, and returned goods are common without an EORI. Tools like ANNA can help you stay on top of tax, cash flow, and admin while you focus on growing your business.

What is an EORI number?

EORI stands for Economic Operators Registration and Identification. An EORI number is a unique reference number that customs authorities use to identify businesses and individuals who import or export goods.

Think of it like a customs ID for your business. Every time goods move across an international border and pass through customs, your EORI number is used to track and process the shipment.

In the UK, EORI numbers are issued by HMRC. A UK EORI number always starts with 'GB', followed by a 12-digit number – typically based on your VAT registration number if you have one, or assigned separately if you don't.

Who needs an EORI number?

You need an EORI number if your business:

• Imports goods into the UK from outside the UK
• Exports goods from the UK to other countries
• Moves goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland when customs declarations are required
• Uses customs procedures such as customs warehousing or inward processing

This applies whether you're a limited company, a partnership, or a sole trader. The size of your business doesn't matter. Even if you're a one-person operation selling handmade goods abroad or importing materials from outside the UK for a small workshop, the rules are the same.

That being said, you might not need one if you only move goods occasionally and use a courier or freight forwarder who handles customs on your behalf under their own EORI number. But if you're trading regularly, having your own number is advisable.

Do you need a separate EU EORI number?

Yes – if you trade goods between the UK and the EU, you need both a UK and an EU EORI number.

Before the UK left the EU, a single EU EORI number was valid for customs processes across the UK and all EU member states. That's no longer the case.

EU EORI numbers are issued by individual EU member states. So if you regularly export to France, Germany, or Spain, for example, you'd apply for an EU EORI number through the customs authority of the relevant country.

Here's a quick overview of which EORI number you need based on where you're trading:

If you're unsure whether you need an EU EORI number, reach out to a customs agent or freight forwarder who can advise you based on your specific trade routes.

How to get a UK EORI number

Applying for a UK EORI number is free and done online through the HMRC website. Here's what the process looks like:

Step 1: Check whether you're VAT registered

If your business is VAT registered, your EORI number will usually be linked to your VAT number. HMRC will use your existing details, which can speed up the registration process.

Step 2: Gather the information you'll need

Before you apply, make sure you have the following:

• Your VAT number (if applicable)
• Your National Insurance number (for sole traders)
• Your company registration number (for limited companies)
• Your business address and contact details
• The date your business started trading

Step 3: Complete the online application

Visit the GOV.UK website and complete the EORI application form. The process is straightforward and usually takes around ten minutes.

Step 4: Wait for confirmation

Most applications are processed within three working days. You'll receive your EORI number by email.

What happens if you don't have an EORI number?

If you try to import or export goods without an EORI number, your shipment is likely to be stopped at the border. Customs authorities need the number to process declarations, and without it, goods can't clear customs.

In practice, this can lead to problems such as delayed or returned shipments, storage fees, and fines or penalties.

How to stay on top of international trade admin

Trading internationally adds a layer of compliance to running your business. Here are a few practical steps to help you stay organised:

• Apply for your EORI number before you start trading: Don't wait until your first shipment is ready to go. Apply in advance so everything is in place when you need it.
• Keep your EORI number somewhere accessible: You'll need to share it regularly with couriers, freight forwarders, and customs agents. Keep it somewhere easy to find, whether that's a notes app, a shared document, or saved in your business admin system.
• Understand what customs declarations you'll need: Depending on what you're trading and where, you may need to submit import or export declarations. Many businesses use a customs agent or freight forwarder to handle this, which can save time and reduce the risk of errors.
• Check whether you need to register for VAT in other countries: If you're selling goods to consumers in EU countries, you may have VAT obligations there too. This is a separate issue from your EORI number, but it's worth checking if you regularly trade across borders.

💡 Did you know?

If you're self employed and juggling VAT, MTD Self Assessment, and international trade obligations at the same time, ANNA's real-time tax estimates can show you what you're likely to owe as you earn, so you're never caught off guard by a bill you didn't see coming.

ANNA – A simpler way to stay on top of your business finances when trading internationally

For self employed people, managing international trade is just one part of keeping a business running smoothly. Staying on top of bookkeeping, tax obligations, and financial admin all at once can be a lot, especially when you're also doing the actual work.

Here's how ANNA can help:

• Automated bookkeeping: Track and categorise all of your transactions automatically, so you spend less time on admin and more time on your business.
• Real-time tax estimates: See what you're likely to owe as you earn, so you're never caught off guard by a tax bill.
• Smart Money Pots: Set aside money for tax, VAT, and other obligations automatically, so the funds are always there when you need them.
• Built-in UK business account: Manage your money and financial admin in one place, with less back-and-forth between tools. You can also send and receive money between countries and use different currencies.
• Smart reminders and alerts: Stay on top of deadlines and important tasks, so nothing important gets missed.
• 24/7 support: Get help when you need it, without having to figure everything out on your own.

Sign up with ANNA today and focus on growing your business, not wrestling with customs admin.