EORI Number Guide
Everything importers need to know about EORI numbers when receiving goods from Spain in Great Britain or Switzerland.
What is an EORI Number?
An EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number is a unique identifier required for any business involved in importing or exporting goods into or out of the EU, Great Britain, or Switzerland. Without a valid EORI number, customs authorities cannot process your import declaration.
Every importer receiving goods from Spain in GB or CH must have a valid EORI number before the shipment arrives.
EORI for Great Britain
Check if you already have one
If you previously traded with the EU before Brexit, you may already have a GB EORI number. Check the HMRC online service or your previous customs documentation.
Apply via HMRC
Apply for a GB EORI number through the HMRC online service at gov.uk. You need your company registration number, VAT number (if registered), and business address. Processing typically takes 5–10 working days.
Format
GB EORI numbers follow the format: GB + VAT number + 000 (e.g., GB123456789000) for VAT-registered businesses, or GB + unique number for non-VAT businesses.
EORI for Switzerland
Register with Swiss Customs (BAZG/OFDF)
Swiss EORI-equivalent registration is managed through the Swiss Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (BAZG). Register via the e-dec system for electronic customs declarations.
Required documents
You need your Swiss company registration (UID), proof of business activity, and authorization for customs representation if using a broker.
Format
Swiss customs identification follows the CHE format: CHE + 9-digit UID number (e.g., CHE-123.456.789).
Why EORI Matters for Spain Imports
Without a valid EORI, your goods will be held at the border until clearance can be arranged — causing delays and storage charges.
Trans-road manages the Spanish export declaration, but the import declaration requires the importer's EORI number in the destination country.
Having your EORI ready before shipping ensures seamless customs coordination between Trans-road and your local customs agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an EORI number?
In Great Britain, HMRC typically processes EORI applications within 5–10 working days. In Switzerland, registration through BAZG can take 2–4 weeks. We recommend starting the process at least 3 weeks before your first shipment.
Can I use my EU EORI number to import into Great Britain?
No. Since Brexit, EU EORI numbers are not valid for GB imports. You need a separate GB EORI number issued by HMRC. If you had a UK EORI before Brexit, it was automatically converted to a GB EORI.
Do I need an EORI number for every shipment?
You need one EORI number per legal entity. Once registered, the same EORI number is used for all your import declarations in that country. You do not need to register separately for each shipment.
What happens if my EORI number is invalid or expired?
Customs will reject the import declaration and your goods will be held at the border. This results in storage fees, potential demurrage charges, and shipment delays. Always verify your EORI status before shipping.
Ready to ship from Spain?
Our team coordinates customs clearance with your designated agent.