What is an EORI number?

When do you need an EORI number?

If you are involved in international trade activities, it is important to know when you need an EORI number. The EORI number is a unique identifier used for customs purposes within the European Union. You need an EORI number when you import or export goods to countries outside the EU.

Obtaining an EORI number is mandatory for both individuals and companies involved in these trade activities. Even if you are not currently doing business outside the EU, applying for an EORI number can be useful for future business opportunities.

Having an EORI number not only facilitates compliance with customs regulations, but also ensures smooth handling of customs declarations, regardless of the scope of your trading activities. By applying for an EORI number in a timely manner, you will avoid delays and potential problems at the import and export of goods.

In general, an EORI number is an identification number for any business involved in importing or exporting goods within the EU. It not only streamlines customs procedures, but also helps ensure regulatory compliance and avoid unnecessary delays or fines.

As a business owner, it's important to understand the purpose and process of obtaining an EORI number to ensure smooth trade. So if you haven't already, apply for your EORI number today and reap the benefits of easier and more efficient business.

How can I apply for EORI number?

Applying for an EORI number is a relatively simple process, but requires the right documents and information. In the Netherlands, an EORI number is applied for through the Belastingdienst/Douane.

Steps for applying for an EORI number

1. Check if you already have an EORI number
   Some companies automatically received an EORI number when they registered for international trade. You can look this up in the aforementioned EORI database.
2. Apply for the number through Customs
   If you do not yet have an EORI number, you can fill out the form on the website of the Inland Revenue/Customs fill in. Please have the following information handy:
   • Your company's VAT number.
   • Your Chamber of Commerce (CoC) number.
   • Contact information and a description of your activities.
3. Send the request
   After completing the form, submit it via the address or portal provided.
4. Confirmation and processing
   Once your application is approved, you will receive the EORI number. This may take several business days.

Want more information on how to get an EORI number? Then contact ECC or check out the site of the tax authorities / customs

Apply for an EORI number as a sole proprietorship

Do you have a sole proprietorship? If so, the application process differs in a few ways from that for a private limited company (B.V.) or other legal entity. A sole proprietorship does not have an RSIN, which means you cannot generate the number yourself based on your business information. Therefore, you must always apply for the EORI number directly using the form provided by the National Customs Help Desk.

Notice: If you operate a sole proprietorship, you cannot give consent to have your name and address information displayed in the European Commission’s public EORI database. This is due to personal data protection regulations, since a sole proprietorship is linked to a natural person rather than a legal entity.

If you were previously a sole proprietor, did you have an EORI number based on your citizen service number (BSN)? That number is no longer valid. From now on, please use only the new number provided in the letter of assignment from Customs. Not sure which number is still valid? We’d be happy to check this for you.

Source: douane.nl (Applying for an EORI number for companies with their principal place of business in the Netherlands; Apply for an EORI number). Regulations are subject to change; if in doubt, verify the current status at customs.nl.

Is an EORI number the same as a VAT number?

Although an EORI number and a VAT number sometimes have the same structure, they are two different registrations used for different purposes.

Key differences between an EORI number and a VAT number

• EORI number: This number is specifically for customs matters and is used when importing or exporting goods to or from the EU.
• VAT number: This number is used for tax obligations, such as payment of sales tax within and outside the EU.

As an example, a Dutch company's VAT number starts with "NL" followed by a unique set of digits. The same company's EORI number may look the same, but it is used in customs systems to record trade activities.