What Is an EORI Number?
It’s time to clarify or remind you what the EORI number is, why it is essential for your business activities, and how you can successfully obtain it to facilitate your goods transportation.
EORI: What Does It Mean?
Many professionals venturing into international trade often ask: “What is EORI?”
The acronym E.O.R.I. stands for **”Economic Operators Registration and Identification”**. It is a unique registration number assigned by the customs authorities of the European Union to all economic operators involved in intra-community trade.
This number is essential for tracking and tracing goods as they cross borders. It must be used whenever a customs declaration is made, whether for importing or exporting goods. In other words, without an EORI number, customs clearance becomes nearly impossible, which could directly impact your business continuity and customer satisfaction.
If you wish to operate in international markets, familiarizing yourself with this code is not optional. You must take the necessary steps to obtain it.
Why Obtain an EORI Number?
The primary purpose of an EORI number is to streamline your administrative procedures. The EORI registration also helps secure your commercial transactions. It provides instant access to verify your company’s compliance during customs clearance, significantly reducing the risk of administrative errors that could cause delays.
Additionally, the EORI number allows you to track your commercial transactions. With this number, customs authorities can immediately access the status of your imports and exports online. Beyond ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, it also enables authorities to generate trade statistics.
Finally, possessing an EORI number ensures your business complies with current regulations. Without it, you may face financial penalties and risk losing the trust of your clients.
As experts in customs clearance, MWT advises treating this requirement as a priority to ensure the smooth operation of your business activities.
This will also enhance your credibility with commercial partners and authorities, adding value to your supply chain.
How to Obtain an EORI Number?
Obtaining your EORI number is relatively straightforward, but careful attention must be given to the required documents.
First, you will need your SIRET number and a detailed list of all information about your activity, including an exhaustive description of your imports or exports.
For European companies, you will need to appoint a tax representative who can locally register your company to obtain your SIRET number, then your VAT number, and finally your EORI number.
Once these documents are gathered, you must log onto your country’s customs portal to submit your paperwork and complete the EORI number application. If your company is based in France, visit the official French Customs website. Make sure you provide all the required information and be precise to avoid delays in processing your application.
Once your application is submitted, customs authorities usually respond within a few days or weeks. In the meantime, it’s advisable to work with a customs regulation expert who can monitor the status of your application and help you navigate the specific customs practices applicable to your case.
Engaging Experts for Assistance
If you want to ensure smooth and secure management of your import/export activities, consider engaging experts.
Customs regulations vary significantly between countries depending on the mode of transport, transit countries, etc., and they are constantly evolving. An expert can save you time and prevent costly mistakes.
MWT Sourcing is committed to supporting its clients throughout all their import/export processes. Our team of experts is available to provide practical advice, guide you through obtaining your EORI number, connect you with partners, and manage your goods’ customs clearance. Do not hesitate to leverage our expertise in customs clearance and discover how we can help you navigate the complex landscape of customs regulations effectively.
