You are ready to ship. The invoice is done, the buyer is waiting, and then someone asks: which EORI number are you using?
Since Brexit, one business can need up to three: GB, XI or EU. Pick the wrong one and your cargo may sit at the port. This guide helps you choose the right EORI number in minutes.
Why One EORI Number Is No Longer Enough (Thanks, Brexit)
Before Brexit, a single EU-issued number covered trade with both the UK and the EU. That is no longer the case.
The UK and the EU now run separate customs systems. Each one needs its own way to identify traders, which is why different EORI numbers exist.
The result is three types of EORI number, each linked to a different customs territory. Knowing which one fits your trade saves time, money and stress.
Meet the Three EORI Numbers at a Glance
Here is a quick side-by-side look:
| Type | Starts with | Issued by | Use it for |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB EORI | GB | UK customs (HMRC) | Moving goods between Great Britain and other countries |
| XI EORI | XI | UK customs (HMRC) | Moving goods to or from Northern Ireland |
| EU EORI | Country code (e.g. DE, FR) | An EU member state | Customs declarations within the EU |
GB EORI: Your Ticket for Great Britain Trade
A GB EORI starts with “GB”, followed by 12 digits, for example GB123456789000. It identifies your business to UK customs.
You need it when moving goods between Great Britain and other countries. It is the standard number for most UK importers and exporters.
XI EORI: The Northern Ireland Pass
An XI EORI starts with “XI”. It is used for goods moving to or from Northern Ireland.
You cannot get one on its own. You need a GB EORI first, and the XI number is added on top.
EU EORI: One Number, 27 Countries
An EU EORI is issued by an EU member state and begins with that country’s code. It is valid across all EU member states.
That means a business registered in Germany does not need a separate number for France or Italy. One EU number does the job.
Which EORI Number Do You Need? Find Your Match in 60 Seconds
Find the scenario closest to yours:
- UK business exporting to the EU: You will need a GB EORI. Depending on your role in the EU customs process, you may need an EU EORI too.
- UK business trading with Northern Ireland: A GB EORI plus an XI EORI.
- EU business importing from the UK: An EU EORI.
- UK online seller shipping to EU customers: A GB EORI, and possibly an EU EORI.
- Services-only business: You may not need any, since no goods cross the border.
Take a small UK online store selling candles to customers in Germany. It needs a GB EORI for the UK side. If it handles EU customs declarations itself, it may need an EU EORI too.
Your exact needs depend on your setup, so check with the relevant customs authority if you are unsure.
Do You Need More Than One? The Dual-Market Trap
Many growing businesses sell in both the UK and the EU. That is where the confusion starts.
A GB number does not work for EU declarations, and an EU number does not cover UK ones. If you trade in both markets, you may need one of each.
The good news is that you only need one EU number for the whole EU. You do not need to register in every member state.
How to Get Each Number Without the Guesswork
Getting a GB or XI EORI
Apply through GOV.UK. It is usually issued immediately, or within about five working days if extra checks are needed.
Have your company details ready. UK applicants may also need details such as a UTR and a Government Gateway login.
Getting an EU EORI
Apply to the customs authority of the EU member state where your business is established. Forms, languages and processing times vary by country.
Is It Free?
Yes. Applying directly with a customs authority is free.
Want Help With the Paperwork? Here’s Your Shortcut
Applying yourself is free, but it takes time. Each authority has its own forms and rules, which can be tricky across several countries.
An independent intermediary can handle that for you. EORI.services collects your details, prepares the application and submits it to the relevant customs authority on your behalf. It covers the 27 EU countries and the UK.
It is not a government body and does not issue any EORI number. It charges a service fee, and no service can guarantee approval, because only customs authorities decide.
Compare the fee with the time you would save, then choose what suits your business.
4 Costly Mix-Ups to Avoid
A small slip can delay a shipment. Watch out for these:
- Using a GB number for EU declarations. They are separate systems.
- Forgetting the XI number. Northern Ireland trade may need it on top of your GB number.
- Applying in the wrong EU country. Apply where your business is established.
- Confusing EORI with VAT. A VAT number is for tax. An EORI number identifies you to customs.
Final Thoughts: Choose Once, Ship with Confidence
The right EORI number depends on where your goods move. Map your trade routes, pick the matching number and apply through the right channel.
Get it sorted early, and customs stops being a surprise.
This guide is for general information only. Always confirm requirements with the relevant customs authority before applying.
GB, XI and EU EORI FAQs: Quick Answers
1. Can I use a GB EORI number for EU customs declarations?
Not usually. A GB EORI is for Great Britain, so EU declarations generally need an EU EORI number.
2. Do I need a GB EORI before applying for an XI EORI?
Yes. A GB EORI is required before you can get an XI EORI.
3. Is an EU EORI valid in every EU country?
Yes. One EU EORI number is valid across all EU member states.
4. Do I need both a GB and an EU EORI number?
If you move goods between the UK and the EU, you may need both, depending on your role in the customs process.
5. How do I check which type of EORI number I have?
Look at the prefix: GB, XI or an EU country code. You can then verify it with HMRC or the European Commission’s validation tool.
6. Can I get a GB EORI number if I’m not VAT registered?
Yes. VAT registration is not required. HMRC can issue a 12-digit GB EORI number to businesses that are not VAT registered.
7. What happens if I use the wrong EORI number on a customs declaration?
Your declaration may be delayed or rejected, and goods can be held at the port. Contact your customs broker or the relevant authority to correct it quickly.
8. Can a sole trader apply for an EORI number?
Yes. Sole traders can apply too, if they move goods across borders for business. Check the requirements of the customs authority you apply to.
