For e-commerce entrepreneurs who sell across borders and offer their products internationally, having an EORI number is essential. The EORI number stands for.
Economic Operators Registration and Identification
, and is required as soon as a company becomes involved in activities such as importing, exporting, or other customs-related activities within the European Union (EU). In this article, we take a closer look at what an EORI number is, why you need one and how to do an EORI check for yourself and for another company.
What is an EORI number?
When entering the international market, e-commerce companies face complex customs processes. These processes require specific documentation and identification numbers, one of which is the EORI number. The number serves as a kind of passport for goods entering or leaving the EU, allowing customs authorities to identify the goods and perform the necessary checks.
Compliance & efficiency
An EORI number guarantees that you are doing business according to the rules. It allows you to track your trade transactions and strengthens your company’s efficiency and reputation in the international marketplace. The EORI number is indispensable for any e-commerce seller who wants to succeed globally.
How do I get an EORI number?
So you have to register with the customs of the country in which your business is located. This often requires you to fill out an application form on the website. You must provide your company name, address and VAT number. After submitting the form, your application will be reviewed by customs, and (if all goes well) approved! Then you will be assigned an EORI number, which will be used for all customs activities within the EU.
Do you want to apply for your EORI number in the Netherlands? The method of application depends on who files your customs declaration. If you file your own return, you can compile your own EORI number. If you have someone else file the return in the Netherlands, or file the return abroad (yourself or by someone else), there are separate application forms for that. You can find them on the IRS website.
Checking your EORI number
Verifying your EORI number through an EORI check is essential for your international trade operations. Without a valid EORI number, you may face delays and fines. Regular monitoring of your EORI status ensures that your business remains compliant and offers a smooth international trading experience.
How can I check my EORI number?
- Visit the official website: The European Commission has a page where you can validate EORI numbers.
- Enter your EORI number: Use the search function on the website to check the status of your EORI number.
- Verify your company information: Make sure the information linked to your EORI number is correct and current.
How can I check another EORI number?
Do EORI check from another company? You can! In fact, this is through the same European Commission website. Note that you can only look up European companies here. Want the EORI number of a company outside of Europe? Then you have to be with the customs authority of that particular country.
Need help with VAT or EPR?
Then Staxxer can help. We make sure you can cross borders worry-free as an e-commerce entrepreneur. Because our software integrates seamlessly with Amazon, we can completely automate your VAT returns. That way you never have to look back at your international VAT! And are you entering a new market? Then we will also help you get a new VAT number so you can start selling smoothly.
You’ve also come to the right place for EPR. Want to know how we can help your business? Then you can schedule a (free) consultation via this link. Then you get VAT and EPR advice tailored to your organization, you can ask all your questions, and you can choose to outsource it to us. Pretty convenient!
