In short: £95 covers preparing and completing your business's EORI application with HMRC, and an XI EORI too if you trade goods into or out of Northern Ireland. HMRC does not charge for EORI numbers. A GB EORI is usually issued immediately, or within 5 working days if HMRC needs to make checks. We check your details first so the application is right first time.
What's included
- Check of whether you need a GB EORI, an XI EORI or both
- Collection and check of your business details
- Help finding the right SIC code and business start date
- Completion of the GB EORI application
- XI EORI application for Northern Ireland trade, if needed
- Confirmation of your EORI number once issued
- Plain-English note on what the number is used for
What an EORI number is
An EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number identifies your business to customs authorities. You need one to move goods between Great Britain and other countries, and it is used on customs declarations and by freight agents and couriers.
HMRC assigns EORI numbers free of charge. Our £95 fee is for checking your details, completing the application with you and making sure you have the right number for your trade.
GB EORI and XI EORI
- A GB EORI is for moving goods into or out of Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales).
- An XI EORI is for moving goods into or out of Northern Ireland. You must already have a GB EORI before you can get an XI EORI.
Many businesses only need a GB EORI. If you trade with or through Northern Ireland, we check with you whether an XI EORI is also needed.
Who needs one
You are likely to need an EORI number if your business:
- imports goods into the UK from abroad
- exports goods from the UK
- sells goods online to customers outside the UK and ships them yourself
- moves goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland
You do not usually need one if you only sell services, or only buy and sell goods within Great Britain. A customs agent or freight forwarder can advise on your particular supply chain.
How long it takes
HMRC usually issues a GB EORI immediately. If HMRC needs to make checks, it can take up to 5 working days. An XI EORI is usually issued within 5 days.
What you need to provide
- your company's Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) for Corporation Tax
- the business start date
- your SIC code (the code describing your business activity)
- your VAT number and VAT registration date, if you are VAT-registered
- your National Insurance number, if you are applying as an individual or sole trader
- the name and contact details of the person responsible
If your company is newly formed and has not yet received its Corporation Tax UTR, the EORI application will have to wait until it arrives. All our formation packages include Corporation Tax registration. VAT registration is included in our Fully Inclusive Package, or available through our bookkeeping, VAT and payroll service.
How it works
- Order online and tell us about the goods you plan to move.
- We confirm whether you need a GB EORI, an XI EORI or both.
- We check your UTR, SIC code and other details.
- We complete the application with you.
- You receive your EORI number, and we confirm the next steps.
After you have your EORI
An EORI number does not make customs declarations for you. Most businesses use a customs agent or their courier to make declarations, and give them the EORI number. You may also need to check import duty and VAT on the goods you bring in. An accountant or customs adviser can help with this.
Common mistakes
- Applying before the company has its Corporation Tax UTR
- Using a SIC code that does not match the goods you trade
- Assuming a GB EORI also covers Northern Ireland trade
- Not giving the EORI number to your courier or customs agent
Frequently asked questions
Does HMRC charge for an EORI number?
No. HMRC assigns EORI numbers free of charge. Our £95 fee covers checking your details and completing the application with you.
How long does it take to get an EORI number?
HMRC usually issues a GB EORI immediately, or within 5 working days if it needs to make checks.
Do I need an XI EORI as well as a GB EORI?
Only if you move goods into or out of Northern Ireland. You must have a GB EORI before you can get an XI EORI.
Can a new company get an EORI number?
Yes, once it has its Corporation Tax UTR from HMRC. If the UTR has not arrived yet, the application has to wait.
Do I need an EORI if I only sell services?
Usually not. EORI numbers are for moving goods across customs borders.
Is an EORI number the same as a VAT number?
No. They are separate registrations, although a VAT-registered business gives its VAT number in the EORI application.
Related services
Bookkeeping, VAT and Payroll
Ongoing bookkeeping, VAT registration and returns, and payroll for UK limited companies.
Fully Inclusive Company Package
Formation, addresses and documents, plus VAT and PAYE registration handled for you.
Self Assessment Registration (UTR)
We register you for Self Assessment with HMRC so you receive your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR).