EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) is a registration and identification number for businesses used in customs clearance in the EU. If you import or export goods, you almost certainly need one.
What EORI is used for
The number is shown on customs declarations and lets customs identify you as a foreign-trade participant. Without it you cannot clear imports or exports yourself or use customs simplifications.
Who needs an EORI number
- importers and exporters of goods outside the EU (China, USA, United Kingdom, Turkey, Ukraine and others);
- online shops sourcing goods in third countries;
- companies and OSVČ working with customs brokers and carriers in their own name;
- those using customs procedures (warehousing, processing).
For trade within the EU an EORI is usually not needed. VAT and reporting for supplies to the EU are a separate topic — see the article on the identified person.
What a Czech number looks like
The number consists of the country code CZ and your company ID (IČO); for individuals it is a numeric identifier. It is public, and any counterparty or broker can verify it in the European Commission’s database.
How to get an EORI
- Prepare your company or entrepreneur data: IČO, address, contacts, activity.
- File the application with the Customs Administration of the Czech Republic through the electronic form or in person.
- Wait for the decision — it usually arrives within a few working days.
- Verify the number in the European Commission’s database and give it to your broker.
Assignment of the number is free of charge. Customs broker and carrier services are paid separately.
When help is useful
We complete the application, verify the number in the EU database and explain how to use it for imports and exports. More on the EORI number page.
