What is an EORI Number: A Complete Guide for UK Importers and Exporters

Whether you’re preparing your first international shipment or reviewing your customs processes, understanding your EORI number UK requirements can help you avoid unnecessary delays, additional costs and customs complications.

In this guide, we’ll explain what an EORI number is, how to find an EORI number in the UK, and why it plays such an important role in keeping goods moving across borders.

What is an EORI number?

An EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) is a unique identifier issued by customs authorities. It allows businesses to be recognised when moving goods internationally and is used on customs declarations and other official customs documentation.

Think of it as your business’s customs identification number. Without one, customs authorities cannot identify your business correctly, making it difficult, and in many cases impossible, to complete import or export procedures.

For UK businesses, an EORI number UK is issued by HMRC and is required whenever goods move between the UK and many international markets.

Why do businesses need an EORI number?

International trade relies on accurate customs data. Your EORI number links your business to customs declarations, allowing authorities to:

• Identify your business during customs clearance
• Process import and export declarations
• Calculate duties and taxes correctly
• Apply customs procedures where appropriate
• Maintain compliance with international trade regulations

Without a valid EORI number, shipments can be delayed, held at the border or even refused entry until the correct information is provided.

Who needs an EORI number in the UK?

Most UK businesses will require an EORI number UK if they:

• Import goods into the UK
• Export goods from the UK
• Submit customs declarations
• Use a customs broker to act on their behalf
• Trade with countries outside the UK
• Move goods under specific customs procedures

Even if your customs declarations are managed by a customs brokerage partner, you’ll still generally need your own EORI number, as the declarations are made on behalf of your business.

What does a UK EORI number look like?

A UK EORI number usually starts with “GB” followed by your VAT number and additional digits.

For example: GB123456789000

Businesses trading under certain arrangements may also require additional identifiers depending on where goods are moving, particularly when trading with Northern Ireland or other specific customs territories. Requirements vary depending on your trading model and supply chain.

How to find an EORI number in the UK

One of the most common questions businesses ask is how to find an EORI number in the UK.

If your business already has one, there are several ways to check.

1. Review previous customs paperwork

Your EORI number will normally appear on:

• Import declarations
• Export declarations
• Customs invoices
• Shipping documentation
• Communications from your customs broker

If you’ve traded internationally before, it’s likely your EORI number has already been used on previous shipments.

2. Check your HMRC correspondence

When HMRC issues an EORI number, confirmation is usually provided directly to your business. Reviewing previous correspondence may help you locate it.

3. Ask your customs broker

If your customs declarations are managed externally, your customs broker will usually have your EORI number on file.

At Intelclear, this is one of the first details we verify before managing customs activity, helping ensure declarations are completed accurately from the outset.

How do I apply for an EORI number?

If your business doesn’t already have one, you’ll need to apply before moving goods internationally.

The application process is generally straightforward, but businesses should ensure:

• Company information is correct
• VAT details are accurate where applicable
• The application reflects how the business trades internationally

Applying early helps avoid unnecessary delays when your first shipment is ready to move.

Can you trade without an EORI number?

In most cases, no. Without a valid UK EORI number, customs authorities cannot process declarations correctly.

This can result in:

• Border delays
• Storage charges
• Missed delivery deadlines
• Additional administration
• Increased supply chain costs

For businesses operating across multiple markets, these disruptions can quickly become expensive.

Does an EORI number expire?

Generally, no. Once issued, an EORI number remains linked to your business unless your trading circumstances change or the registration is cancelled.

However, businesses should regularly ensure their customs records remain accurate, particularly if:

• Company details change
• VAT registrations change
• The business restructures
• International trading activities expand into new markets

Is an EORI number all you need for customs?

No. An EORI number is only one part of effective customs compliance. Successful international trade also depends on:

• Accurate commodity classification
• Customs valuation
• Origin management
• Correct documentation
• Duty management
• Compliance with local customs requirements

Many delays occur not because businesses lack an EORI number, but because supporting customs data is incomplete or inaccurate.

That’s why many organisations choose to work with specialist customs partners who oversee the wider customs process rather than simply processing declarations.