| Question | EORI Number | VAT Number |
|---|---|---|
| What is it for? | Customs identification | VAT and tax identification |
| When is it used? | Importing or exporting goods | Charging, reclaiming and reporting VAT |
| Who uses it? | Customs authorities, carriers and customs agents | Tax authorities, suppliers and customers |
| Do you need it to move goods? | Usually yes, if moving commercial goods across UK or EU borders | Not always |
| Do you need to be VAT registered? | No | Yes |
| Can it be linked to your VAT number? | Yes, in some cases | It may form part of your EORI format |
| Example use | Adding it to customs declarations | Adding it to VAT invoices and returns |
IOSS registrations can take as little as 3 working days, meaning if you talk to us on Monday, we can have your IOSS number by Thursday.
You need to include your EORI number on any customs declarations you’re filling out. If you want to use Duty Deferment in the UK, you’ll need to link your EORI number to your Customs Declaration Service (CDS) account.
We can get you an EORI number and help you decide which country you should register in. We’ll need some details about your business, so book a call and we’ll get things started.
Since the UK left the EU (Brexit), HMRC (the UK’s tax and customs authority) has handled two EORI numbers: GB and XI. If you’re shipping goods into or through England, Scotland or Wales you’ll need a GB EORI number. If you’re shipping goods into or through Northern Ireland, you’ll need an XI EORI number. This is because Northern Ireland continues to apply EU VAT and customs rules for physical goods.
To apply for an EORI number you’ll need some basic information about your business such as your business registration information, VAT number (if you have one), and other identification details used by the relevant tax authority.
It varies depending on which country you’re registering in. In Austria it usually takes two days whereas in Denmark it can take up to three weeks.
Your EORI number will usually be provided by the authority that issued it once your registration is complete. It may also appear on customs documentation or communications from the relevant tax authority.
We’ll guide you through what’s needed based on where you’re registering. Book a call with us and we’ll explain exactly what information is required for your situation.
Simply VAT Rating on Trustpilot
A very professional firm that has taken the pain away from our monthly EU VAT filings. I can only vouch for their high level of service and quick response time to our various questions. What a difference from our previous provider (VatGlobal). Do not hesitate to use them.
The world of EU VAT registration is fraught with complexity and unseen hurdles. SimplyVAT navigated all of this for us efficiently and effectively, indluding extracting refunds!
Communication was excellent!
Simply VAT helped us negotiate the EU VAT regulations and thus enabled us to transact business.
Farha, our account manager, has been very good - quick to respond with the answers and the advice we needed.
SimplyVAT provided exceptional service from day one. Their team took the time to understand our business needs and offered tailored advice that streamlined our VAT processes. Communication was always prompt, and their support made a complex task feel straightforward.
As a small business looking to expand internationally, we were overwhelmed by VAT regulations. SimplyVAT’s team guided us through every step with confidence and professionalism. Their expertise gave us the assurance to enter new markets without worrying about compliance issues.
