Becoming an EU registered Importer - EORI

Commercial Importations – EORI Registration

When an importer is declared on the Form C88, when clearing goods through Customs, an EORI number must be shown in box 8. All UK EORI numbers start with the letters GB. Most will then be followed by a twelve digit number based on the importer’s nine digit VAT number with a three digit suffix number at the end, for example GB123456789000.

All commercial importers must have a unique EORI number. Those that do not currently have one, will have to obtain one from HM Revenue and Customs. For all Private Importations, however, GBPR will be shown.

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The following information is taken from the UK Customs on-line document titled:
FAQ: Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI)

Note: The whole document can be viewed on the Customs website. Click here

Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) Scheme

1. A brief introduction:
The implementation of EORI in the UK replaced the previously used Customs trader identification system, TURN, which ceased to exist from 1 July 2009. UK Customs have however retained a number of the TURN features in the EORI system, in particular the format of the registration number itself.

2. How can I apply?
In order to obtain an EORI number, you must submit an application form. There are two ways you can apply, either by hard copy or electronically by email. Whichever method you choose the application form must be fully completed and signed by a responsible person within your business, ie director, partner or sole proprietor. If the information you provide is incomplete or inaccurate we will either return the application form to you or telephone to obtain the correct information.

The application form is available as a version that can be completed either:

Electronically - Click here for Form C220 if you are VAT registered, or Click here for Form C220a if you are not VAT registered

or a Hard Copy version - Click here

The form C220a must be completed only by applicants who are either not VAT registered in the UK or are not established in the customs territory of the Community.

- Electronic applications
You will need to download and save the correct application form (C220 for VAT register, and C220a, for those who are not VAT registered) as a Word document and complete the form as required. You will then need to email the completed application form, together with any scanned supporting documents, if you have completed section B, to the EORI team in Cardiff via eori@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk.
Please note: HM Revenue and Customs will not accept hard or faxed copies of supporting documents for electronic applications.

- Hard copy applications
You will need to print off the application form (C220A) or obtain a form by telephoning the National Advice Service on 0845 010 9000. You must complete the form and send it by post, together with any supporting documents if you have completed section B, to the EORI processing team at the following address:

HM Revenue & Customs - EORI Team
13th Floor South Government Buildings
Ty Glas
Llanishen
Cardiff   CF14 5FP

3. How quickly will I be notified of my EORI number?
In most cases the EORI application will normally be processed within one working day of receipt by the EORI Team. It will take a further day to update our CHIEF and the EU EORI systems. You will be notified in writing of your new EORI number. If you have not received notification by then you may send an email to eori@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk.

We strongly recommend that you submit your EORI application well in advance of when you wish to use the EORI number to avoid delays at import or export.

4. When can I start using my EORI number?
You will be able to use it 24 hours after receiving your notification from HMRC (but see below re licences).

5. What if I have a query?
If you have a query about any of the contents of these FAQs please email eori.customs&intl@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk quoting your name and TURN/EORI number. If you experience any problems using this email address, please use the TURN – turn@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk email address. ukimports.org

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