What is an EORI number and how do I get it?
When you are transporting your goods across borders, whether it is to the UK or elsewhere in Europe, you will need your EORI-number.
If this is the first time you are doing business abroad, I can imagine you have many questions. What is this EORI-number? What do I need it for? And how do I find my Business’ EORI-number? No worries! This blog will guide you through.
What is an EORI number?
An EORI-number, or Economic Operator Registration and Identification number, is a unique identifier for businesses when trading goods within the EU. The EORI-number will be used on customs declarations to help identify you and your business. You will need this number even if you are not transporting goods yourself, but are using a freight forwarder. As an exporter, it is important that you mention this number on all export documents. This helps with a fast custom clearance.
If you are a Freelancer or Sole Trader, you will need to include your own EORI-number as well on any invoices that you issue for services rendered or goods sold within the EU. This is because, as the individual responsible for the sale, you are considered the ‘importer of record’.
As an exporter from within the EU, it is important to include your company’s EORI-number on all export documentation. This will help ensure a smooth and speedy customs clearance process.
Each European country has their own procedures for getting your EORI-number. Usually, this goes via governmental institutes. However, because the procedures vary from country to country, it can be difficult to know what you need to do in order to get one for your own business.
Luckily for you, we have done some research on this topic and give you an indication on how to get your EORI number in the UK, in the Netherlands, in Germany, and in Belgium.
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EORI number in the UK
To find your Business’ EORI-number within the UK, you can contact HMRC. They will be able to provide you with the number and also help you register for an EORI if you have not done so already. You can also visit their website: gov.uk/eori. When you are located in the UK and you are transporting goods to or from the UK, you will need an EORI number that starts with GB.
When you are applying for an EORI number in the UK, you need to include your Unique Taxpayer Reference, business start date and SIC code, Government Gateway user ID and password, VAT number, and National Insurance number. The procedure to receive an EORI number is the same for England, Wales, and Scotland.
EORI number in the Netherlands
If you are a business in the Netherlands, the tax authorities will help you. When you do your own customs declarations, your EORI-number starts with NL and is followed by your RSIN number. If your RSIN number is shorter than 9 numbers, you add zeros in front of the number until you have 9 numbers. For self-employed people, the RSIN is replaced by the BSN. If you cannot compute the EORI number yourself, you can always request your number with the tax authorities.
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EORI number in Germany
In Germany, the EORI-number is found by applying via www.zoll-portal.de. In order to request the number, you will need an ELSTER-certificate for you or for your business.
EORI number in the Belgium
When your company is located in Belgium, the EORI number is requested via a form that is accessible via the financial governmental services site. In order to get an EORI number in Belgium, you also need a KBO number. This is a unique number for your business, and it is needed to activate your EORI number.
Once you have your EORI-number, make sure to keep it safe! You don’t want to confuse this number with your VAT number, tax number, or other important numbers. You will need the EORI number every time you transport goods across the EU.
Our Easy Roaders are specialized in the procedures that are involved with transporting goods to the UK. Do you need any assistance or do you have any questions? Contact us for help!
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