Many companies face delays when goods arrive at the border without proper customs identification. One missing number can stop a shipment, cause additional costs and disrupt delivery schedules.
An EORI number helps customs authorities identify companies that import or export goods in the European Union.
Customs authorities cannot process declarations without an EORI number. As a result, shipments may be delayed or stored at ports.
In this article you will read what an EORI number is and when it becomes necessary for trade. You will also discover how to apply for an EORI number in the Netherlands.
What is an EORI number?
An EORI number stands for Economic Operators Registration and Identification number. This identification number is used by customs authorities throughout the European Union. Companies use this number when moving goods into or out of the Netherlands.
The number usually begins with the country code of the issuing country. For example, a Dutch EORI number begins with NL followed by a series of digits.
Customs authorities rely on the EORI number to identify companies involved in international trade. The number is important for processing customs declarations, tracking shipments and exchanging information between EU member states.
The EORI number improves efficiency and supports secure trade across borders. Each company or individual can have only one valid EORI number in the European Union.
Customs authorities cannot process import or export declarations without an EORI number. This can lead to delays, storage costs and disruptions in supply chains.
Who needs an EORI number?
Many companies apply for an EORI number before beginning international trade. Even companies that occasionally import or export goods still need this identification.
Here are the groups that typically require an EORI number when trading with or through the European Union:
- Importers bringing goods into the country
- Exporters shipping goods to international markets
- Forwarders and customs agents filing declarations on behalf of clients
- Companies storing goods under customs procedures such as bonded warehouses
- Transport companies acting as carriers for international shipments
- Companies applying for customs permits, licenses or exemption schemes
Why do you need an EORI number for trade?
International trade involves many customs procedures before goods can be moved across borders. In the Netherlands, companies must provide proper identification when submitting customs information.
Dutch Customs uses the EORI number to identify companies involved in importing, exporting or transporting goods.
The number links customs documents to the company responsible for the shipment. This allows authorities to process declarations and monitor cross-border trade.
Customs systems cannot identify the company handling the shipment without an EORI number. As a result, declarations cannot be processed correctly and goods are left at ports, airports or warehouses.
Companies need an EORI number for several important customs activities:
- Filing import declarations when bringing goods into the Netherlands or the European Union
- Filing export declarations when sending goods from the Netherlands to countries outside the EU
- Filing entry summary declarations for goods entering the EU
- Filing of exit summary declarations when goods leave the EU customs territory
- Preparation of transit declarations when goods are moved through different customs territories
- Filing temporary-storage declarations when goods are held prior to customs clearance
- Providing identification in notifications regarding the arrival or departure of shipments
- Enable customs authorities to track shipments and exchange information between EU member states
Many companies in the Netherlands register for an EORI number before starting international trade. This helps avoid delays and keeps shipments moving through ports such as Rotterdam and Schiphol.
How do you apply for a Dutch EORI number?
Dutch companies can obtain an EORI number in two ways. Some companies can create the number themselves, while others must submit an application to Dutch Customs. The method depends on the company structure and how customs declarations are submitted.
Register your business with the Chamber of Commerce
A company must first be registered with the Chamber of Commerce. During registration, the company receives a unique identification number such as an RSIN. This registration is a mandatory step before an EORI application can be submitted.
Create your EORI number with your RSIN
Many Dutch companies can create their EORI number directly with their RSIN. The number starts with NL followed by the RSIN number. If the RSIN has fewer than nine digits, zeros are added to the beginning to complete the format.
This method is applicable to most registered Dutch companies and does not require a separate application to the customs authorities.
Submit an application through Dutch Customs
Companies that cannot create their EORI number through the RSIN method must apply to Dutch Customs.
You complete the application form by providing basic company details and identifying information. This route is often used by non-EU companies that need an EORI number to trade within the EU.
Receive and activate your EORI number
Once the number is created or approved, it is registered in the central EU-EORI database and immediately becomes active. It is visible in the EU-EORI validation database, which can be accessed by any customs authority in the member states.
The number is valid in all EU member states and does not need to be registered separately in each country.
Use your EORI number for all customs activities
The EORI number is required for import and export declarations, entry and exit summary declarations and other customs procedures.
A company needs only one EORI number regardless of how many EU countries it trades with, making it a simple identifier for cross-border operations.
How The Customs Company supports importers and exporters
International trade often involves strict customs procedures and detailed documentation. Even a small error can delay shipments at ports or border crossings.
Many companies prefer expert support to keep their goods moving smoothly.
The Customs Company helps importers and exporters manage customs requirements in the Netherlands. The team understands the transportation and logistics industry and knows how important time is for each shipment.
The company prepares and submits import and export declarations on behalf of companies trading internationally. This ensures that shipments comply with Dutch and European customs requirements.
The Customs Company also prepares transit documents such as T1, T2 and T2L. These documents help you move goods through customs areas while keeping them under surveillance.
The company also offers companies customs consulting and compliance support. This guidance helps companies understand regulations and avoid costly mistakes. It also provides support during physical customs inspections when authorities check shipments.
The company has digital connections to Portbase for faster exchange of customs data. This improves efficiency and reduces manual work during the handling process.
Conclusion
An EORI number is essential for companies that import or export goods through the Netherlands. Dutch Customs cannot process declarations without this number, which can lead to shipment delays and additional storage costs.
Registering for an EORI number before starting international trade helps companies avoid many problems. The number ensures that shipments can move through ports without disruption.
The Customs Company is available 24/7 and supports companies with accurate and complete customs clearance documentation. The company has years of experience in transportation and tailors its services to your specific business needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get an EORI number in the Netherlands?
Ans: Dutch companies that create their EORI number with their RSIN can use it immediately. For companies applying through Dutch Customs, the number is usually issued within a few business days.
- Is an EORI number required for importing goods to the Netherlands?
Ans: Yes. Companies importing goods to the Netherlands must include an EORI number in their customs declarations. Dutch Customs cannot process the shipment without the number.
- Can a company have more than one EORI number in the EU?
Ans: No. A company can have only one active EORI number that is valid throughout the European Union. The number is recognized by all EU customs authorities.
- Do small businesses in the Netherlands need an EORI number?
Ans: Yes. Any company that imports or exports goods outside the EU must have an EORI number, even if shipments are only occasional.
