Obtaining an EORI number is a legal requirement if you wish to trade (import or export) goods outside of the EU. It was introduced in 2009, and allows you, or your business, to trade safely. Depending on whether or not you are VAT registered in the UK, will depend on which form you will need to complete, and Paramount Formations can help with this.
With over 40 years of experience in this sector, the team at Paramount Formations can obtain your EORI number for you - as well as offer advice on such subjects as: when to obtain an EORI number, as well as how to proceed if you aren’t VAT registered, how to check the validity of your EORI number, and when it’s necessary to produce it.
What Does EORI Stand For?
EORI stands for ‘Economic Operator Registration and Identification’. Simply put, you need an EORI number to trade goods with countries outside of the EU. This number is unique to you, or your business, and is assigned by a customs authority. The EORI system was introduced on 1st July 2009, replacing TURN.
How Long Does It Take For My EORI Number To Come Through?
Once we have applied for your EORI number we can usually register you in about 4 hours and it will then be sent through to you via email. You will then be able to use your EORI number within hours after you have received it. Buy our EORI registration package and we’ll begin the process right away.
What Does An EORI Number Look Like?
If you are VAT registered, your EORI number will be an extension of your VAT number. Your nine-digit VAT number will be prefixed with your country code, for example “GB” for Great Britain, or “FR” for France - and suffixed with “000”.
For example: GB123456789000
Without VAT registration, your EORI number will be smaller than the one listed above. This will change once you have registered for VAT in the UK. It’s also worth mentioning that unlike the previous TURN, there is only one number per trader, regardless of the number of offices you may have. For example, with TURN each office/premises would have its own trading number:
- Office1: GB123456789001
- Office2: GB123456789002
- Office3: GB123456789003, and so on.
But now, the EORI number would simply be: GB123456789000
What Are The Benefits Of An EORI?
Unlike the previous TURN (Trader’s Unique Reference Number), each trader has a single EORI number, regardless of how many premises they have. This is particularly beneficial for businesses with a number of different offices, as detailed above.
Who Needs An EORI Number?
If you, or your business, will be trading goods with countries outside of EU, you will need an EORI number. If you are required to provide pre-arrival / pre-departure information for goods, or if you are involved in the imports, export or movement of goods, they you, or your business will need and EORI number.
When Is An EORI Needed In The Import/Export Process?
An EORI number is stored nationally and on a central EU EORI database. It allows customs authorities to exchange information, and to share information with government departments and agencies, making it important for both statistical and security purposes.
Do I Need An EORI Number If I Am An Individual?
If you are planning to trade goods with countries outside of the EU, you will need an EORI number, this includes sole traders. Simply put, if you are required to provide pre-arrival / pre-departure information for goods, or if you are involved in the imports, export or movement of goods, they you will need and EORI number.
Do I Need An EORI Number If I Am Not VAT Registered?
If you are planning to trade goods with countries outside of the EU, you will need an EORI number. If you are not VAT registered in the UK, you will need to fill in the C220A form. Without an EORI number, you won’t be able to complete the Entry Summary Declaration or Exit Summary Declaration or any goods traded.
Without VAT registration, your EORI number will be smaller than the one listed above. This will change once you have registered for VAT in the UK.
If you are in the process of applying for VAT registration in the UK, you can still submit your application for an EORI number. You will be giving a number to use until your VAT registration number comes through. Once you have received your VAT registration number, you will need to submit a new EORI application form.
I’ve Lost My EORI Number, What Do I Do?
If you have lost your EORI number, you’ll need to contact the EORI team at HM Revenue and Customs who will be able to help.
Can I Check If My Supplier's EORI Number Is Valid?
Checking a EORI number is simple, use this EU form, enter the EORI number you would like to check, and see the results.
What Is The Easiest Way To Get An EORI Number?
The easiest way to get an EORI number is contact Paramount Company Formations. We will be able to begin the process for you, so you will be safe in the knowledge that the form required is correctly filled in, and promptly sent off. You can either choose to fill in the form electronically, or using a hardcopy. If you are registered for VAT in the UK, you will need to fill in the C220 form. If you are not registered for VAT in the UK, you will need to fill in the C220A form.
How Do I Make Changes To My EORI Details?
If your details change, you must contact the EORI team at HM Revenue and Customs. You will need to tell them:
- If your business changes name, address or VAT number
- If you register for VAT If you no longer need your EORI number
- If you need to add or remove businesses’ details from the public EORI checker
Navigating the world of EU trading can be tricky, and getting it right first time is a must. Paramount Formations can steer you through the maze of forms, legal requirements and processes to ensure your business is trading quickly and legally. When it comes to business, time is money, and no one understands that better than us! For any questions on obtaining your EORI number, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.