What Is an EORI Number Checker?
Eori number checker is a digital tool that allows businesses to confirm whether the EORI number is valid. Eori stands for registration and identity of economic operators. It is a unique ID that is used to track shipments coming inside and out of the UK and EU. This checker is often used by cargo companies, customs agents, and import/export businesses. With Brexit being fully implemented, verifying the HMRC EORI number is now a standard exercise in the business of the European Union.
For example, if you receive goods from France, the EORI number checker confirms if your supplier is registered with customs.
How Does the EORI Number Checker Work?
EORI number checks are performed by scanning the EORI registry. When you enter the number, the equipment connects to the European Commission’s EORI database or the UK system of HMRC. It checks the format and registration status. You can use the tool through the European Commission website or by calling the HMRC helpline.
To validate using the checker, input the EORI number (e.g., GB123456789000). If it’s valid, the result will show the business name, address, and EORI registration status.
How Can You Check an EORI Number Using the EORI Number Checker Tool?
Businesses can use the online checker tool to find an EORI number from a VAT number or by another method. Usually, the procedure entails:
- going to the official website of the customs authorities.
- submitting the EORI number or the VAT registration details.
- Verifying the status by running the verification.
- Getting an answer stating whether the number is legitimate or not.
Businesses that engage in international trade within the EU or between the UK and other areas are typically subject to the necessity for an EORI number, in case you were wondering who needs one.
What Is an EORI Identification Number?
An EORI identity number is a unique reference used by businesses when dealing with customs processes in Europe. This number simplifies the transaction and increases efficiency in business-related activities. If businesses fail to apply for an EORI number, they risk delays, increased administrative burden, and complications in customs operations.
An EORI identification number is a registration code assigned by HMRC or EU customs. In the UK, it typically starts with GB, followed by your VAT number and 000.
EORI number example:
GB123456789000
This number connects the customs procedures to your company. Without it, import and export customs clearance is either delayed or prevented. If you intend to trade goods with any country outside of the UK, you must apply for an EORI number. Some businesses mistake EORI for VAT registration. Despite their similarities, they are not the same. Only if the VAT number has been formally registered as a component of an EORI can you determine the EORI number from the VAT number.
What is EORI number validation?
EORI number validation is the process of confirming whether an economic operator registration and identity (EORI) number is active and correctly registered. This process helps to verify businesses, customs agents, and regulatory bodies that this number belongs to a valid merchant authorized to move goods across the borders of the UK or the European Union. Verification is usually performed using an online EORI number checker, which immediately cross-references the number with the official customs records.
The validation result shows whether the EORI number is valid, as well as the business name and the country with the country, which is publicly available. This step is important in avoiding customs delay, punishment, or rejection. An invaluable EORI number may mean that the business is not properly registered or that the number is deactivated. In such cases, traders may need to reapply for an EORI number or update their records with HMRC EORI number services.
What Is EORI Invalidation and When Does It Happen?
Invalidation of your EORI occurs when your number is no longer active. Typical explanations include:
- The business is shut down.
- The deregistered VAT number
- EORI was not extended.
- System policies are updated by HMRC.
You have to apply for an EORI number or get in touch with HMRC to fix the problem if an EORI becomes invalid. An invalid EORI can stop business operations because it can no longer be used to clear customs. Use the EORI number checker right away to verify the status of your number if you think it may be invalid.
Why Would a Non-EU Company Need an EORI Number for UK Trade?
A non-European Union Company requires an EORI number to trade goods with the UK, as it is a legal requirement for customs clearance. Without the EORI number, businesses cannot import or export goods to or from outside the UK. HMRC uses this number to track and record all customs activities related to a business. This ensures that the business pays the appropriate taxes and duties and conforms with UK customs regulations.
Even if a non-European Union business is not physically based in the UK, it is still required to register for an HMRC EORI number if it wants to carry goods through the UK ports or airports. This applies whether the company is trading directly or through a UK-based agent. Applying for an EORI number is the first step towards spontaneous international trade, as it allows the business to present announcements and interact efficiently with the HMRC system.
Is It Possible to Find an EORI Number from a VAT Number?
It is possible to find an EORI number from a VAT number, but only in some cases. If the UK business is VAT-registered and has applied for an EORI number, the EORI usually starts with “GB,” followed by the company’s VAT number and three additional points (often “000”). For example, if the VAT number of a business is 123456789, its EORI number can look like GB123456789000. This structure makes it easier to identify or guess the EORI number if you already have a VAT number and know that the business internationally trades.
However, this method has not been supported as a way to officially find EORI numbers, and you cannot use a government database to find EORI numbers directly using VAT numbers. HMRC does not provide a reverse look-up tool for privacy reasons. Instead, you can use the EORI number checker to verify once. If you need to confirm the status of EORI registration of a business, the best approach is to ask them directly or request their EORI certificate.
Conclusion
Any company shipping goods across the UK must have the EORI number checker. You can’t overlook this tool, which may be used for everything from format verification to avoiding customs delays.
With the correct tools, the process is simple, whether you’re looking to verify your registration, get your EORI number from your VAT number, or check your EORI number by company name. Avoid the chance of non-compliance. Use the checker or apply for an EORI number through HMRC right now if you’re not sure if you have a genuine one.