Five steps to your EORI number
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1
Check whether you already have a number
An EORI number is issued once per business or person. Search old customs correspondence or check with our free tool before applying again.
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2
Identify your country of establishment
You apply in the EU country where your business is legally established — not the country you ship to. Non-EU businesses usually apply in the first EU country where they lodge a customs declaration.
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3
Find your national customs portal
Every EU country runs its own online application through its national customs authority (for example the Zoll in Germany, the Belastingdienst in the Netherlands, or Tullverket in Sweden). Search "EORI application" plus your country name to find the right portal.
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4
Submit your business details
Most applications ask for your legal name, VAT or company registration number, address and contact details. The information must match your official business registration.
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5
Receive and verify your number
Processing usually takes a few days to a few weeks and is free everywhere in the EU. Once issued, verify it in the official EU database before using it on a customs declaration.
Apply in your country of establishment
Where do I apply?
There is no single EU-wide application form. Each member state's customs authority runs its own online portal — for example the Zoll in Germany, the Belastingdienst in the Netherlands, Tullverket in Sweden, or HMRC in the UK. Search for "EORI application" together with your country's name, or check our country-specific guides for Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands and the UK.
How long does it take?
Processing times vary by country, but most applications are handled within a few working days to a few weeks. Apply well ahead of your first planned import or export — customs can hold shipments without a valid number.
What does it cost?
Nothing. Every EU customs authority issues EORI numbers free of charge. Be wary of third-party services that charge a fee to "arrange" one for you — it's a straightforward application you can complete yourself.
After you receive your number
Before using your new EORI number on a customs declaration, verify it in the official EU database. If any of your business details change later — name, legal form or address — update them with your customs authority to avoid mismatches on future declarations.
Already have a number?
Check whether it's valid and registered.