What is an EORI number and how do I get one?
When you transport your goods across the border, whether to the UK or another European country, 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 an EORI number? Why do I need it? And how do I find this number for my company? Not to worry! This blog will guide the way.
What is an EORI number?
An EORI number, or Economic Operator Registration and Identification number, is a unique identification number for companies, which they require when trading goods within the EU. The number is used on customs declarations to identify you and your company. You also need this number if you do not transport goods yourself but use a freight forwarder. As an exporter within the EU, it is important to state your company’s number on all export documents. This helps ensure smooth and rapid customs clearance.
If you are a freelancer or a sole trader, you must also include your EORI number on all invoices related to goods or services you transport or sell within the EU. In this case, you are personally responsible for the sale, which means you are regarded as the importer of record.
Each European country has its own procedures for obtaining an EORI number. This is usually handled through government institutions. Since procedures vary from country to country, it can be difficult to determine the necessary steps to obtain your own number.
Fortunately, we have already done the research on this subject! Below you will find a brief summary of how to obtain your EORI number in England, Wales, and Scotland, in the Netherlands, in Germany, and in Belgium.
Which documents do you need to transport to the UK?
The Brexit has made the answer to that question more difficult. This checklist makes transport and shipping to England EASY again!
EORI number in England, Wales, and Scotland
To request your company’s EORI number in England, you can contact HMRC. They can provide you with the number or assist you with registration for a new number if you do not have one yet. You can also visit their website for more information: gov.uk/eori. If your company is based in England and you transport goods to or from England, you will need a number starting with GB.
If you are applying for a new number in England, you will need the following details and documents: Unique Taxpayer Reference, the company’s start date and SIC code, Government Gateway user ID and password, VAT number, and National Insurance number. The procedure for obtaining an EORI number is the same for England, Wales, and Scotland.
EORI number in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, companies can apply for an EORI number through the Tax and Customs Administration. If you handle your own customs declarations, your number will start with NL followed by your RSIN number. If your RSIN number is shorter than 9 digits, you should add leading zeros until you have 9 digits. A sole trader replaces the RSIN number with their BSN (citizen service number).
If you cannot calculate the EORI number yourself, you can always request your number from the Tax and Customs Administration.
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Do you also get confused with all holidays across borders? This holiday calendar helps you to never forget a holiday again! Make your transports EASY!
EORI number in Germany
In Germany, you can find the EORI number by applying via www.zoll-portal.de. To apply for the number, you will need an ELSTER certificate for yourself or your company.
EORI number in Belgium
If your company is based in Belgium, the EORI number is requested via a form accessible through the website of the Federal Public Service Finance. To obtain the number in Belgium, you also need a CBE number. This is a unique number for your company and is required to activate your EORI number.
Once you have received your number, make sure to keep it safe! You do not want to confuse this number with, for example, your VAT number, tax number, or other important sequences of digits. You need the EORI number every time you transport goods through the EU. Therefore, store it carefully!
Our Easy Roaders specialize in the procedures involved in transporting goods to the UK. Do you need assistance or do you have questions? Please contact us for help!
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