Verify the format of EU and UK EORI numbers instantly. Understand customs identification requirements for international trade.
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EORI stands for Economic Operators Registration and Identification. It is a unique identification number used throughout the European Union to track and identify businesses and individuals involved in customs activities. The EORI system was introduced on July 1, 2009, under EU Regulation 312/2009 to streamline customs procedures across all member states.
Think of the EORI number as your customs passport. Just as you need a passport to travel internationally, businesses need an EORI number to move goods across EU borders. The number is assigned once and remains valid indefinitely unless the business ceases operations or requests invalidation. Once registered in one EU member state, the EORI number is recognized and valid across all 27 EU countries.
The EORI number serves multiple purposes in international trade. It allows customs authorities to quickly identify economic operators, track shipments, collect accurate trade statistics, and ensure compliance with import and export regulations. Without a valid EORI number, your goods can be held at customs, resulting in costly delays, storage fees, and potential penalties.
The requirement for an EORI number applies to a wide range of businesses and individuals engaged in international trade. Understanding whether you need one is crucial before attempting to import or export goods to or from the European Union or United Kingdom.
Since Brexit in January 2021, UK businesses now require a separate GB EORI number for trading with non-EU countries, and potentially an XI EORI number for Northern Ireland trade under the Windsor Framework. The EU EORI number is no longer valid in the UK, and vice versa.
EORI numbers follow a standard structure: a two-letter country code followed by a unique identifier. However, the length and composition of the identifier varies by country. Here are examples from major trading nations:
| Country | Format | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Germany | DE + 15 characters | DE123456789012345 |
| France | FR + 14 characters | FR12345678901234 |
| Netherlands | NL + 9 characters | NL123456789 |
| Spain | ES + VAT format | ESA12345678 |
| UK (Great Britain) | GB + 12 characters | GB123456789000 |
| UK (Northern Ireland) | XI + 12 characters | XI123456789000 |
Since the UK left the European Union on January 31, 2020, the EORI landscape has become more complex. UK businesses may now need multiple EORI numbers depending on their trading activities. Understanding the differences between GB, XI, and EU EORI numbers is essential for compliance.
A GB EORI number is required for businesses moving goods between Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) and any country outside the UK, including EU member states. If your business was VAT-registered before Brexit, you may have been automatically issued a GB EORI. The format is GB followed by your 9-digit VAT number and three additional zeros (e.g., GB123456789000).
Under the Windsor Framework, Northern Ireland maintains a unique position with access to both the UK internal market and the EU single market for goods. Businesses in Northern Ireland, or those moving goods to/from Northern Ireland, may need an XI EORI number. This allows them to benefit from the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement and avoid customs duties on qualifying goods.
EU EORI numbers remain valid across all 27 member states but are no longer recognized in the UK. If your business is established in the EU and you only trade within the EU customs territory, your existing EU EORI is sufficient. However, if you need to act as a customs declarant in the UK, you will need a separate GB EORI number.
Before completing any international trade transaction, it is essential to verify that your trading partner's EORI number is valid and active. Invalid or incorrect EORI numbers can cause significant delays at customs, additional fees, and potential legal complications.
When you validate an EORI number through official channels, you will typically see whether the number is valid and active. If the business has consented to share their information, you may also see the registered company name and address. This helps verify that you are dealing with a legitimate business entity.
