<\/span><\/h3>\nMaking an online application to get an EORI number can take up to 2 to 3 hours. However, the time can differ if HMRC needs to perform any additional checks. If they do, it may take up to five working days.<\/span><\/p>\nYou can check your EORI number using an EORI number-checking service once the application has been processed.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/span>What is the format of an EORI number?<\/span><\/h3>\nAn EORI number differs from one country to another since it is issued by the customs authorities of the specific country where your business is based.<\/span><\/p>\nIt consists of two parts: the country code of the issuing member state followed by your VAT number (if you are VAT registered). If you are not VAT registered then the VAT number will be replaced with a unique number or code.<\/span><\/p>\nThe type of EORI number you should use depends on where you\u2019re moving goods to and from.<\/span><\/p>\nIf you are trading out of Great Britain, you will need an EORI number starting with GB, (for example: GB548567834836).<\/span><\/p>\nFor businesses moving goods to or from Northern Ireland, you will need an EORI number starting with XI, (for example: XI123456654321)<\/span><\/p>\nEU EORI numbers are 3-17 characters long starting with the respective two-letter country code, for example, (FR67890988907654) for France. The code identifies businesses engaged in international trade, customs operations, and related activities.<\/span><\/p>\nAn incorrect EORI number can delay your consignment to be released by the customs department.<\/span><\/p>\n![\"format](\"https:\/\/businassist.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/format-of-an-EORI-number.jpg\")
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<\/span>Where do I include an EORI number?<\/span><\/h3>\nYou will need to include your EORI number on the commercial invoice and packing list documentation.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/span>Under which circumstances do I not need an EORI number?<\/span><\/h3>\nYou do not need an EORI number if you\u2019re moving goods that are not controlled (goods that don\u2019t fall under specific regulatory restrictions). You also do not need an EORI number if the goods you\u2019re moving are strictly for personal use.<\/span><\/p>\nIf you\u2019re based in the Channel Islands and move goods to or from the UK, you do not need an EORI number unless you use HMRC\u2019s customs systems like Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF).<\/span><\/p>\n<\/span>What are the consequences of not getting an EORI number for my business?<\/span><\/h3>\nIf you don\u2019t get an EORI number for your business you will incur heavy fees for any custom clearance, return shipping, and storage. Additionally, your goods will be stuck at the border and you will not be able to access them.<\/span><\/p>\nYour business will experience delays causing operational challenges, customer dissatisfaction, and financial losses.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/span>How many times do I need to apply for an EORI number?<\/span><\/h3>\nYou will only need to apply for an EORI number once per business, that is if your business expands into other countries and you are required to hold an EORI number issued by those countries. Also, an EORI number does not expire and is valid for all your import and export activities within the EU.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/span>Can a company in the EU and UK have more than one EORI number?<\/span><\/h3>\nYes, it can. If a company operates both in the UK and EU, it can have dual EORI numbers.<\/span><\/p>\nYou can have an EU EORI number for transactions within countries in the EU member states and a UK EORI number for transactions in the UK.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/span>When is an EORI number required?<\/span><\/h3>\nAn EORI number will be required when:<\/span><\/p>\n\n- You appoint someone to deal with customs on your behalf.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Use customs systems such as the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system and the Import Control System Northern Ireland (ICS NI)<\/span><\/li>\n
- Apply for a customs decision.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Make customs declarations<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/span>Why is an EORI number important?<\/span><\/h4>\n\n- Smooth import and export transaction: <\/b>An EORI number makes the process of moving goods smooth by minimising administrative hurdles.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Easier customs procedure:<\/b>\u00a0An EORI number is used to declare goods at the customs. The number makes the process easier with customs authorities eliminating the risk of delays.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Simplifies compliance with legal requirements:<\/b>\u00a0An EORI number ensures you adhere to the legal requirements of international trade.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Access to special custom procedures:<\/b>\u00a0Your business may benefit from inward process relief and custom warehousing.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Enhance business security:<\/b>\u00a0With an EORI number, it is easier for customs authorities to curb illegal trading activities at the border.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
<\/span>Is it possible to make changes to my EORI details?<\/span><\/h4>\nTo update your EORI details, you will need to contact HMRC and provide them with the necessary information such as:<\/span><\/p>\n
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