The EORI number is a unified identification for EU economic operators, used in all economic activities involving customs operations, such as:
Goods export, import and transit operations.
Customs declaration, tariff payment and trade statistics.
According to the provisions of the EU Customs Code (UCC), any enterprise planning to engage in economic activities within the EU needs to have an EORI number to ensure normal customs clearance and compliant operations.
二、EORI號碼的適用范圍
1. EU Enterprises
Enterprises need to apply for an EORI number at the customs authority of their member state.
An enterprise can only have one EORI number within the entire EU, and this number is applicable in all EU member states.
2. Non - EU Enterprises
Non - EU operators need to register an EORI number in the member state where they conduct their first customs operation.
If an enterprise plans to conduct trade operations through multiple EU countries, it only needs to register an EORI number in one of the member states.
3. Impact of Brexit
The UKs EORI number is no longer applicable to EU countries.
Enterprises need to apply separately for an EORI number in EU countries to continue operating within the EU.
III. Is It Necessary to Register an EORI Number?
Whether it is necessary to register an EORI number depends on the enterprises business model and specific operations:
1. Exporting Goods Directly to the EU
If an enterprise conducts customs declarations or transports goods on its own, it must register an EORI number.
It is necessary to ensure that the EORI number is consistent with the enterprises export declaration to avoid declaration errors.
2. Declaration through a Third - Party Agent
If an enterprise entrusts a freight forwarder or other agent to handle customs declarations, it usually does not need to register an EORI number separately.
It is necessary to confirm that the agents EORI number has been registered and covers all necessary customs matters.
Some e - commerce platforms (such as Amazon, Alibaba) may assume part or all of the customs declaration responsibilities.
If the platform has registered an EORI number and handles customs clearance on behalf of the enterprise, the enterprise may not need to register additionally.
If an enterprise is involved in large - scale trade or independent declaration, it still needs to apply for an EORI number separately.
四、EORI號碼的申請流程
Enterprises need to complete the registration of the EORI number before planning to first contact the EU customs. The following are the general application steps:
Submit the application form Submit the EORI number application form to the customs department of the country or region where the enterprise is located. Provide basic information such as the enterprise name, registered address, and contact information.
Required Materials Enterprise registration certificate. VAT (Value - added Tax) number (if applicable). Company address and valid email address. Identity certificate of the legal representative.
Information management and update Ensure the truth and accuracy of the application information. If the enterprise name, address, or legal representative changes, the information needs to be updated in a timely manner.
V. Management and Compliance Use of the EORI Number
Permanent validity
The EORI number is permanently allocated, but if an enterprise stops business activities or does not use it as required, the number may become invalid.
Even if it becomes invalid, the data related to it needs to be retained for ten years.
Violation risks and penalties
Failure to use the EORI number as required may result in the customs seizing the goods or imposing a fine.
Enterprises need to use the EORI number legally and comply with regulations to ensure that the declaration is consistent with the actual trade activities.
VI. Summary and Recommendations
For enterprises planning to export to the EU, registering an EORI number is a key link to ensure smooth customs clearance and legal operation. Enterprises should judge whether they need to register according to their business models and operational needs, and ensure the accuracy and integrity of information during the application process. By properly managing the EORI number and its related information, enterprises can more efficiently adapt to the EUs trade rules and achieve the sustainable growth of international business.