No-deal Brexit: EORI numbers essential for all companies who import or export to the EU

In the event of a no-deal Brexit, all businesses that move goods between the EU and the UK will need an Economic Operation Registration Identification (EORI) number issued by the UK in order to clear goods through customs.

Automatic allocation

HMRC is automatically allocating EORI numbers to VAT registered businesses which it knows have traded with the EU in the past and don’t already have an EORI number. The letters informing traders of their new unique EORI number should arrive this week.

However, many more businesses who are not VAT registered will also need an EORI number. 

If you import goods from the EU, or exports any goods to customers in the EU, even very small amounts, they will need an EORI number to clear those goods through customs. You need to apply for an EORI number as soon as possible. Most EORI numbers are allocated instantly but some may take up to five days to be approved if HMRC needs to undertake additional checks on the business.