EORI GB number

The EORI GB number (Economic Operators’ Registration and Identification number) is a unique identifier used in the European Union and Great Britain in customs procedures. Without it, it is not possible to legally import and export to and from EU countries and the UK. And what exactly is it, who is it necessary for and how to get it – you are welcome to the article.

The EORI GB number is an individual identifier that allows entrepreneurs to legally conduct business related to the export and import of goods from and to the European Union. After Brexit, Great Britain introduced its own EORI number system, marked with the country code “GB”. This number is necessary in contacts with British customs authorities.

The EORI GB number starts with the prefix “GB”, followed by a unique series of digits. It is usually the company’s VAT number (if registered for VAT) with additional check digits. Example: GB123456789000.

If you operate in the EU and import or export to other countries outside the EU, a European EORI number (containing the letter prefix of your country) will be enough for you. However, if you are sending your goods from the UK to the EU or another country in the world, or you are clearing goods on your own behalf in the UK, you have to already have a number with the prefix “GB”.

In simpler terms, an EORI GB number is mandatory for:

• companies importing goods to the UK
• companies exporting goods from the UK.

The EORI GB number is provided in customs documentation. This includes: customs declaration (e.g. CDS) and transport documents. It is also necessary in communication with customs offices.

Additionally, if a company from the UK trades with the EU, it may need an EORI number starting with the EU country prefix.

IMPORTANT! The EORI GB is necessary even for a one-off import or export to the UK.

If you are just planning to enter the British market, we recommend our text “Selling to Great Britain”. You will find there all the necessary information about documents, customs clearance and other required formalities.

To get an EORI number GB, you need to fill out a form on the HMRC website Get an EORI number: Apply for an EORI number – GOV.UK, the British tax office. You will need:

• company details: name, address, date of commencement of business – EVERYBODY
• VAT number and effective date of registration – EVERYBODY (if you are registered for VAT in the UK)
• unique UK taxpayer reference number (UTR) – ONLY UK citizens and residents and companies registered in the UK
• Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code – ONLY UK citizens and residents and companies registered in the UK
• UK National Insurance number, if you are an individual or self-employed – ONLY UK citizens and residents and companies registered in the UK

The next step is to register on the HMRC website and fill out the form. The EORI GB number is usually issued immediately, unless the office needs to verify any of the information you have provided. If this happens, it can take up to 5 working days.

IMPORTANT – EORI is activated in the customs system after approximately 2 working days for companies registered in the UK.

For EU entities, it can take up to 7 working days.

Without this number, you cannot legally transport any goods across the British border. This may result in delays in customs clearance or detention of shipments at the border.

That’s not all! If you do not have an EORI GB number, you may be subject to financial penalties. Therefore, before you send your goods, check that you have not only the necessary number, but also the remaining documents.

And if you need support with customs clearance to or from Great Britain – contact us. For over 30 years, we have been supporting entrepreneurs in international trade. We not only help with customs matters, but also with transport, storage and accounting in Poland and in the UK.