Advertisement
EORI format check & verification
Enter the full EORI number including the two-letter country prefix.
Official service: ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/dds2/eos
Enter an EORI number above to check the format.
What is an EORI number?
EORI stands for Economic Operators Registration and Identification. It is a unique identifier assigned to businesses and individuals that regularly import or export goods into or out of the European Union.
The EORI number is used on all customs declarations and paperwork submitted to EU customs authorities. Without a valid EORI number, goods cannot be cleared through EU customs. All businesses involved in international trade, freight, or logistics within the EU need an EORI number.
- Format: Country code (2 letters) + up to 15 alphanumeric characters. For example,
DE1234567890. - Issued by: National customs authorities in each EU member state.
- Scope: Valid across all EU member states — you only need one EORI number, regardless of how many EU countries you trade with.
Advertisement
When you need an EORI number
- Importing goods into the EU from outside the EU (third countries)
- Exporting goods from the EU to outside the EU
- Transit movements of goods through the EU
- Submitting customs declarations as an importer, exporter, or customs agent
- Applying for customs simplifications or authorisations
- Filing Entry Summary Declarations (ENS) under the Import Control System
EORI vs VAT number
| Feature | EORI Number | EU VAT Number |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Customs identification for trade | Tax registration for VAT purposes |
| Mandatory for | Import/export declarations | Intra-EU B2B transactions above threshold |
| Issued by | Customs authority | Tax authority |
| Format | CC + up to 15 chars | CC + 8–12 alphanumeric |
| EU-wide? | Yes — one EORI covers all EU states | Each country may require separate registration |
Advertisement