UK introduces online EORI number validation tool

The United Kingdom government has introduced an online EORI number validation tool.  The service of an EORI tool may be especially helpful for smaller businesses facing ongoing uncertainty about the administrative requirements of shipping to EU states. 

Note that the service is currently running in Beta mode.

Two numbers aren’t better than one

Ensuring you have a valid EORI number has been one of the challenges faced by companies adapting to Brexit. Getting a United Kingdom EORI is relatively simple if you are familiar with the procedures.  However, many firms are still being taken by surprise by the requirement. The lack of a valid EORI number has led to frustration and costly delays. 

Why do you need a new EORI number?

Previously, a single EU EORI was sufficient for trade in goods between the UK and other EU states.

Now that the UK has left the EU, a specific UK EORI number is required when moving goods between the UK and EU. In addition, an EORI number issued by an EU member state will be required. 

Customs declarations often require the inclusion of an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number. When completing customs declarations, the EORI number is typically required for both the importer and the exporter.

What is an EORI number?

The Economic Operators Registration and Identification number is a standardised identification number used in customs procedures throughout the EU. The single, standardised identification number is designed to be more efficient for processing and data collection. The EORI consists of the relevant country code followed by a unique identification number.

In the UK, acquiring the correct EORI number is slightly complicated by the Northern Ireland protocol. Businesses based in the UK will generally use an EORI number starting with GB. However, businesses shipping from Northern Ireland require an EORI number starting with XI.

Where do I get a UK EORI number?

In the UK, You can apply for your EORI number starting with GB online. You will require all the relevant paperwork to apply, including your company’s Unique Taxpayer Reference, VAT number (where appropriate) and Standard Industrial Classification. To avoid delays, businesses should contact a VAT professional if they are uncertain about the requirements. 

Businesses shipping from Northern Ireland that require an EORI number starting with XI must first apply for the EORI number starting with GB.

A complete logistics solution

Getting the correct EORI number as quickly as possible is just one of the hurdles faced by UK businesses that trade with EU countries. VAT IT can help. reTRADE, powered by VAT IT, offers customised solutions to the administrative and logistics challenges of Brexit in Great Britain.

Get in touch to secure a smart, proactive, holistic Brexit solution, especially tailored to your business’s strategic goals.