A guide to EORI numbers for e-commerce businesses

A key part of international e-commerce logistics is customs clearance. When you send your goods to customers cross-border, you want them to arrive there on time and without delay. The key to that is submitting complete and accurate customs documentation with your shipment – including an EORI number.

What is an EORI number?

EORI stands for Economic Operators Registration and Identification. This unique identifier is used by customs authorities to monitor and track shipments coming into and out of the European Union. It is a mandatory requirement for businesses to have an EORI number to clear customs in the arriving/departing EU destination.

A shipper's EORI number is required when exporting on all of DHL Express’ international services.
 

 Why is an EORI number important?

Customs clearance: An EORI number is required for customs declarations when importing or exporting goods into or out of the EU. Without it, customs authorities will not process your shipment, leading to delays and additional costs.

Tracking and identification: It helps customs authorities track and monitor shipments and ensure that businesses comply with customs regulations.

Simplified procedures: For businesses regularly dealing with international trade, an EORI number streamlines the process, making it more efficient and less time-consuming.

Legal requirement: For any business, including e-commerce firms trading with countries outside the EU, having an EORI number is a legal requirement. Without it, your business could face legal penalties.

How to get an EORI number

Applying for an EORI number is completely free. You’ll need to provide some business details, such as VAT number (if applicable), the business name, and registered address. 

Where your e-commerce business is based will determine how you can apply for your EORI number:

EU-based businesses can apply for an EORI number from the customs or tax authority in the EU country where their business is established.

Non-EU businesses have two options:

1. They can apply for an EORI number in any EU country, allowing them to deal with customs throughout the EU.   
2. Appoint an EU-based intermediary, which can obtain an EORI number on their behalf.

Once approved, your business will receive its unique EORI number, which should be used in all customs documentation.

How to indicate an EORI number for a shipment in your customs paperwork

A shipper's EORI number is required when exporting on all of DHL Express’ international services.

When you set up a DHL Express Business Account, your dedicated Account Manager will request your EORI number and add it to your shipping account. The EORI number will be visible on your pro­forma or commercial invoice (the customs declaration paperwork).

Be aware, inaccurate or missing data and documentation is one of the leading reasons for customs delays. To ensure a smooth customs clearance process when shipping internationally, it is crucial to provide a complete and accurate commercial invoice – including your EORI number.
 

Recipient EORI numbers for Business-to-Business (B2B) shippers

There are times when you will also require the EORI number of your shipment’s recipient for your documentation. If you are shipping to another business that is based in the EU, then you need to include their EORI number. Here’s why:

• Identification of both parties: Customs authorities require the EORI numbers of both the sender and the receiver to properly identify the parties involved in the transaction and track the movement of goods.
• Compliance and customs clearance: Providing both EORI numbers helps ensure smooth customs clearance and avoid delays or complications. It demonstrates that both businesses are registered and authorised to trade within the EU.
• Data collection and statistics: Customs authorities use EORI numbers to collect data on trade activities, and having both numbers allows them to accurately record and analyse trade flows between businesses.

If you drop off your parcels at DHL Service Points, you can provide the EORI number to the DHL Service Point representative in store to enter in the receiver's Tax ID field.

If you book a courier collection online with DHL, you have the option to add the EORI number as you enter the shipment information in the receiver's Tax ID field.

Using IOSS with DHL Express

Once your business has an EORI number, you may want to consider applying for IOSS.

IOSS stands for Import One Stop Shop. It is an online VAT registration scheme which simplifies the payment of VAT on goods sold online to customers in the EU, valued at €150 or less.

It allows your e-commerce business to collect, declare, and pay VAT on all your EU sales in one go, instead of dealing with individual tax rules for each EU country you sell to.

The benefits of this include:

• No hidden charges for your customers when their parcel arrives in-country.
• Faster transit times and quicker clearance through customs.
• Ability to charge VAT at the point of sale and have a single monthly VAT payment for all goods sold to the EU.

This IOSS guide explains how IOSS works, how to register for IOSS, which countries use IOSS, and how much VAT you will pay.

Grow your business in the EU with DHL Express

Understanding EORI numbers is crucial for SMEs wishing to grow in the EU. For any business importing or exporting goods commercially into or out of the European Union, it is a mandatory requirement to have an EORI number so goods can clear customs at the arriving or departing EU country.

When you set up a DHL Express Business Account, your dedicated Account Manager will request your EORI number and add it to your shipping account, ensuring you have a smooth and seamless customs experience – and that your customers receive their orders without delay.