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Customs & Compliance

If you're importing or exporting goods as a UK business, you need an EORI number. Without one, your goods will be held at the border and your customs declarations will be rejected. It's one of the most basic requirements in international trade — and one of the easiest to sort out, because registration is free and usually completed the same day.

What Is an EORI Number?

EORI stands for Economic Operator Registration and Identification. It is a unique reference number issued by HMRC that identifies your business to UK customs. Every customs declaration — whether import or export — must include the EORI number of the importer or exporter of record. It is, in effect, your business's customs identity.

GB EORI numbers begin with "GB" followed by your VAT number (if you have one) and three additional digits, or a different number format for non-VAT-registered businesses. They look like: GB123456789000.

Who Needs One?

Any UK business that imports goods into Great Britain or exports goods from Great Britain needs a GB EORI number. This includes businesses that use a freight forwarder or customs agent — the EORI of the actual importer or exporter of record is required on the declaration, not just the agent's.

Sole traders and partnerships need an EORI as much as limited companies. If you're trading personally (as an individual rather than a business) you can also obtain an EORI, but for commercial trade you should register as a business.

GB EORI vs XI EORI

A GB EORI covers trade into and out of Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales). Most UK businesses only need a GB EORI.

An XI EORI (beginning "XI") is required for businesses moving goods into or out of Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland operates under different customs rules from Great Britain under the Windsor Framework, maintaining alignment with the EU single market for goods. If your business is based in Northern Ireland or moves goods through it, you will likely need both.

How to Apply

You apply online through GOV.UK — search for "Get an EORI number" and follow the link to the HMRC application form. The process takes around ten minutes. You will need your VAT number (if registered), your business address, and your business type. Most applications are processed automatically and the EORI is issued the same day by email.

There is no charge for a GB EORI number. Any website offering to register one for you for a fee is a third party — you can do it yourself directly through GOV.UK for free.

Where Your EORI Number Appears

Your EORI number appears on all UK customs declarations (import and export entries), on customs clearance paperwork, and is referenced by your freight forwarder or customs agent when they make declarations on your behalf. You should provide it to your logistics provider before shipping for the first time.

It does not typically appear on commercial invoices or packing lists — these documents are for the commercial transaction, not the customs declaration itself.

What Happens Without One

Without a valid EORI number, your customs declaration will be rejected. For imports, your goods will be held at the border — incurring storage charges and potentially missing delivery windows. For exports, the shipment cannot be declared to HMRC and cannot legally leave the UK as a commercial consignment.

Given that registration is free and same-day, there is no good reason to delay. If you're planning to start importing or exporting, apply for your EORI before you need it.

Common Mistakes

Using a personal EORI for business trade: If you registered as an individual rather than a business, your declarations may not align with your business's VAT and tax records. Register as a business entity.

Using the wrong prefix: Using an XI EORI for GB trade (or vice versa) will cause declaration errors. Make sure you're using the right number for the territory.

Not providing it to your freight forwarder: Your agent cannot submit declarations without it. Share it at the start of any new logistics relationship.