Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) Scheme – BREXIT

Important: From 1 January 2021, you'll need an EORI number that begins with GB to maneuver goods in or out of the UK.

The Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) Scheme is a European Union (EU) initiative that can help traders contact customs officials when they're importing and exporting goods.

Importers and exporters are able to register for an EORI number that is valid throughout the EU. They can use this number in communications with any customs authorities in the EU, for instance in customs declarations in which a customs identifier is required.

Traders wishing to register, or who're already registered being an Authorised Economic Operator, also need an EORI number.

What is the format of the EORI number?

UK EORI numbers begin with the letters 'GB'. The majority are then followed by a 12-digit number based on the trader's VAT number (eg GB123456789000).

If you possess an EORI number that doesn't begin with GB, you ought to get one if you are going to trade goods into or out of the UK after the UK leaves the EU.

How to check on for EORI status

You can look for EORI status For those who have a UK VAT number. Please prefix your nine digit VAT number with 'GB' and suffix with '000', eg GB123456789000 (don't put any spaces between the digits).

How to apply for an EORI number

To apply for a UK EORI number, you will have to generate a Government Gateway user ID and password for either:

• your organisation, if you're trying to get your company or partnership


• you, if you're applying as an individual or perhaps a sole trader

If you do not have a person ID, you can create one when you begin.

Apply online for an EORI number.

Once you've your UK EORI number it will take 48 hours before you utilize it to make declarations using the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system.

It takes 5 to 10 minutes to apply. You will get it either:

• straight away


• within 5 working days (if HMRC needs to make more checks)

If you are not VAT registered but need to get an EORI number for an additional customs procedure or system you should complete this form and can include why you need an EORI number within the additional information box.