Before your first shipment can clear customs into the EU or UK, you need an EORI number. It’s a small piece of admin that stops a lot of shipments in their tracks — so here’s what it is, when you need it, and how to get one.
What is an EORI number?
EORI stands for Economic Operators Registration and Identification. It’s a unique ID that customs authorities use to track businesses that import or export goods into or out of the EU (and, separately, the UK). Think of it as your customs reference number — without it, your goods can’t be cleared.
When do Amazon sellers need one?
You need an EORI number whenever you act as the importer of goods into a customs territory. For Amazon sellers, that typically means:
- Sending your first inventory shipment into the EU (for example, into a fulfilment centre in Germany or the Netherlands).
- Importing stock into the UK, which after Brexit is a separate customs territory and needs its own GB EORI.
If you sell into both the EU and UK, you’ll usually need two EORI numbers — an EU one and a GB one.
How to get an EORI number
- EU EORI: apply through the customs authority of the EU country where your goods will first enter (commonly Germany or the Netherlands for FBA sellers). One EU EORI is valid across all member states.
- GB EORI: apply through HMRC for a number starting with “GB”.
- Applications are generally free and often issued within a few days.
Non-EU businesses may need to appoint a customs representative or provide additional documentation depending on the entry country.
How EORI fits with VAT and imports
Your EORI is used at the border; your VAT registration and OSS/IOSS handle the tax on the sale. They work together: EORI gets your goods in, VAT handles the tax when you sell. Both are part of the wider set of steps in our guide to selling on Amazon in Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an EORI number the same as a VAT number?
No. A VAT number is for reporting and paying VAT on sales; an EORI number is a customs ID used when importing or exporting goods. You generally need both to import and sell in the EU.
Do I need a separate EORI for the EU and the UK?
Yes. Since Brexit the UK is a separate customs territory, so selling into both the EU and the UK usually means holding an EU EORI and a GB EORI.
How much does an EORI number cost?
Applying for an EORI number is typically free through the relevant customs authority, and numbers are often issued within a few working days.
Where do I apply for an EU EORI as a non-EU seller?
Usually through the customs authority of the EU country where your goods first enter — often Germany or the Netherlands for FBA sellers. One EU EORI is then valid across the EU.
Setting up your first EU shipment and want the customs, VAT and compliance handled correctly? Book a free consultation. General guidance, not legal or tax advice.