An EORI number is one of the first things a UK business needs in place before importing goods commercially, yet it is often overlooked until a shipment is already on the water. Without a valid EORI number, UK customs cannot process your import declaration, which means your goods cannot be cleared or released.
Understanding what an EORI number is, who needs one, and how it is used, helps ensure this is not something that causes delays to your first shipment.
What is an EORI number?
EORI stands for Economic Operator Registration and Identification. It is a unique reference number used by customs authorities to identify businesses and individuals making customs declarations. A UK EORI number begins with the prefix GB, followed by a unique reference based on your VAT number, or a reference issued by HMRC if you are not VAT registered.
Who needs a GB EORI number?
Any UK business or individual importing or exporting goods commercially to or from Great Britain needs a GB EORI number. This applies whether you are importing directly or using a freight forwarder or customs agent to handle the declaration on your behalf, as the number is still required to identify your business as the importer of record.
Businesses that also move goods to or from Northern Ireland may need an additional XI EORI number, applied for separately once a GB EORI is already in place.
How it is used in customs declarations
Your GB EORI number is included on every customs declaration submitted through the Customs Declaration Service, identifying your business as the importer responsible for the goods. It links the shipment to your business for duty and VAT purposes, and allows HMRC to maintain a record of your import activity.
Applying for an EORI number
Applications are made online through GOV.UK using a Government Gateway account. Most applications are processed quickly, though HMRC advises allowing up to a week in case additional checks are needed. Many VAT-registered businesses already have a GB EORI number, so it is worth checking on GOV.UK before applying again.
What happens if the details are wrong
An incorrect or missing EORI number on a customs declaration will typically cause the declaration to be rejected, which can hold up clearance until it is corrected. If your business details change, such as your VAT registration, it is worth checking that your EORI record is kept up to date to avoid this happening on a future shipment.
Talk to us about your next shipment
Sorting out your EORI number before your first shipment arrives is a simple step that avoids one of the most common causes of an unnecessary delay at UK customs.
We can check whether your business already holds a valid GB EORI number and advise on the application process if you need to apply before your next shipment.
At CMGT Logistics, we support UK businesses importing goods from China, providing practical advice and end-to-end freight forwarding based on the needs of each shipment.
Contact CMGT Logistics to discuss your next shipment or request a competitive freight quotation.
