What is an EORI number?
An EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) is a unique identification number for businesses in the European Union. It is used for customs matters and is made up of letters and numbers. It is issued by the customs authority of an EU member state. EORI numbers exist for legal entities, such as a Dutch BV, but also for people who run a business as a sole trader. You use an EORI number when you import from or export to countries outside the European Union, whenever you deal with customs. Branches don't get their own EORI number; they use the number of the head office. You need an EORI number whenever you file a customs declaration or have one filed for you.
How do I get an EORI number?
In the Netherlands you can put your EORI number together yourself. Start with the letters NL and add your RSIN (Rechtspersonen en Samenwerkingsverbanden Informatienummer). The RSIN is a unique identification number for legal entities and partnerships in the Netherlands. It is issued by the Belastingdienst (Dutch Tax Administration) and used for tax matters, such as applying for a VAT number and reporting tax details. Is your RSIN shorter than 9 digits? Then add zeros in front of it until it is 9 digits long. Don't have an RSIN, for example because you are a sole trader? Then apply for an EORI number from the Belastingdienst.
Applying for an EORI number
You can also apply for an EORI number from Customs by filling in a form. Apply in good time so customs can process your shipment. If you don't, your shipment may not be let into the destination country, or it may be held up for a long time. You can apply for an EORI number online:
Apply for an EORI number for Dutch businesses (in Dutch)
Apply for an EORI number for Belgian businesses (in Dutch)
Please note: getting an EORI number can take some time, and there may be costs involved.
Is an EORI number a VAT number?
No, an EORI number is not a VAT number. An EORI number identifies businesses in the European Union for customs purposes. A VAT number is a unique identification number used for tax purposes. The two numbers are separate, and a business can have both an EORI number and a VAT number.
What is a UK EORI number?
This is an EORI number for businesses that trade with the United Kingdom. Since Brexit, the UK is no longer part of the European Union, so it has its own EORI numbers. That means there are two types: an EU EORI number and a UK EORI number. A UK EORI number works much like an EU one, but it is issued by the UK customs authority (HMRC) and is only valid in the United Kingdom.
More information?
Read more about easy international shipping in our help centre. Prefer to talk to one of our logistics specialists? Get in touch via Live Chat, or call +31 85 877 16 56 (Netherlands) or +32 3 808 70 99 (Belgium). We're happy to help!
