Before delving into the details, here’s a concise overview: an EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number is mandatory for any business or individual engaging in import/export activities within the EU. You apply through the customs authority of the Member State where you’re established (or where you first trade if you’re non‑EU).
The application is free, typically processed within days, and requires basic company data—VAT number (if any), legal name, address, and, in some cases, supporting documentation. Common pitfalls include incomplete addresses, missing postcodes, or applying with the wrong national authority; these can delay issuance. Union Fine Art Services offers end‑to‑end assistance—from preparing and submitting your EORI application to handling ongoing customs compliance, ensuring your fine art shipments flow seamlessly across borders.
Understanding the EORI Number
What Is an EORI Number?
An EORI number is a unique identifier assigned to economic operators and individuals conducting customs-related activities in the EU customs territory [1]. It ensures a standardized reference across all Member States, facilitating customs declarations, transit procedures, and statistical tracking [2].
Who Needs an EORI Number?
- EU‑Established Operators: All businesses or persons with premises (head office, registered office, or permanent establishment) in any EU Member State must obtain an EORI number before any customs operations [1].
- Non‑EU Operators: Companies or individuals outside the EU engaging in their first customs declaration (import, export, transit, temporary storage, etc.) must register for an EORI in the Member State where they conduct that operation [1].
- Carriers & Agents: Freight forwarders, customs agents, or carriers lodging summary declarations (ENS/EXS) or acting on behalf of clients must also have an EORI [3].
Why Is the EORI Number Important?
- Mandatory for Customs Clearance: Customs systems (e.g., the EU’s ICS, NCTS) require an EORI on every declaration to process shipments quickly and avoid holds [4].
- Security & Risk Management: Under EU Regulation 2913/92 (Union Customs Code) and subsequent amendments, EORI ensures traceability and assists in security risk assessments [2].
- Data Consistency: A single identifier reduces errors across declarations, statistical reports, and communications with multiple Member States [1].
Eligibility & Required Documentation
Eligibility Criteria
- Entity Status: Legal persons (companies, NGOs) or individuals registered for business purposes.
- Minimum Activity: Even if you conduct as few as one customs declaration per year, you must have an EORI [5].
Required Information
- Company Details: Legal name, address (including postcode/Eircode where applicable), and nationality.
- Identification Numbers: VAT number (if registered) or national tax ID.
- Representative Details: For non‑EU operators, details of the person or agent applying.
- Supporting Documents: Certificate of incorporation, business license, or power of attorney if applying via a customs broker [6].
Step‑by‑Step Application Process
1. Identify the Correct Authority
- EU‑Based Businesses: Apply to your national customs authority (e.g., HMRC in the UK, Revenue in Ireland, AADE in Greece) [3][7].
- Non‑EU Businesses: Register in the Member State of your first customs operation [1].
2. Gather Your Information
Compile legal entity documents, VAT/tax numbers, full address with postcode, and representative details if needed [7].
3. Complete the Online Application
Most Member States provide an online portal:
- Ireland (ROS): Register via Revenue Online Services and include your Eircode [7].
- Germany (EORI): Use the EORI Customs Portal for EORI application [4].
- Greece (AADE): Email the completed Declaration/Application form to the competent customs office [6].
- UK (HMRC): Self‑serve application via UK government site [3].
4. Submit & Await Confirmation
- Processing Time: Typically 1–5 business days for EU authorities; some states may take up to 10 days [8].
- Fees: Free of charge across all Member States [8].
Common Pitfalls & Troubleshooting
- Incomplete Address or Missing Postcode: Applications often get rejected if the Eircode/postcode isn’t provided [7].
- Duplicate Applications: You are only entitled to one EU‑wide EORI. Applying in multiple states causes delays as authorities reconcile duplicates [9].
- Wrong Authority Selection: Non‑EU operators sometimes apply in the wrong Member State if they misunderstand the “first customs operation” criteria [1].
- Late Registration: Applying after your goods have already started transit can trigger customs holds and penalties [5].
Renewals, Updates & Cancellations
- No Expiry: EORI numbers remain valid indefinitely unless invalidated [1].
- Updating Details: Notify your issuing authority of any changes (name, address, tax ID) via their online portal or form [6].
- Cancellation: If you cease operations, request invalidation; the record is retained for 10 years for audit purposes [1].
How Union Fine Art Services Can Help
Union Fine Art Services specializes in high‑value and fine art logistics across borders. Our tailored support includes:
- EORI Registration Assistance: We guide you through determining the right Member State, preparing documentation, and submitting your application to avoid delays.
- Customs Clearance Management: From paperwork to duty calculations, our experts liaise directly with customs authorities, ensuring compliance with ever‑changing regulations.
- End‑to‑End Shipping: Specialized packaging, climate‑controlled transport, and white‑glove delivery—from gallery to private collection.
- Compliance Monitoring: Proactive alerts for updates in trade policy, ensuring your operations remain smooth and penalty‑free.
By partnering with Union Fine Art Services, you leverage decades of experience in navigating complex customs regimes, giving you peace of mind and focus on what matters most—your art.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long does it take to receive an EORI number?
Usually 1–5 business days, but can extend to 10 days in some Member States [8].
Q2: Do I need separate EORI numbers for the EU and the UK?
Yes. Post‑Brexit, the UK and EU maintain distinct schemes; you must apply separately if you trade with both [5].
Q3: Can I trade without an EORI number?
No, customs systems will reject declarations without a valid EORI [2].
Q4: Is there a fee for EORI registration?
No, all EU Member States provide EORI registration free of charge [8].
Q5: What if my details change after getting an EORI?
Report any changes via your issuing authority’s portal or designated form to keep your EORI valid [6].
Ready to streamline your EU imports and exports?
Contact Union Fine Art Services today at unionfas.com for personalized EORI assistance and comprehensive customs logistics solutions. We ensure your artwork and valuables clear customs efficiently, every time.