Without an EORI number, your goods get stuck at customs. The Economic Operators Registration and Identification number is mandatory for every business importing goods into or exporting goods out of the EU — including Germany. Applying is free and takes only a few days. Here's how it works.
What is an EORI number?
The EORI number is a unique identifier that customs authorities across the EU use to assign and track shipments. It simplifies customs declarations and is recognized EU-wide — one number covers all member states.
Format in Germany: country code + number, e.g. DE123456789.
Who needs an EORI number?
Every business moving goods across the EU's external border — regardless of value:
- Importers (e.g. goods from China, the UK, or the USA)
- Exporters to non-EU countries
- E-commerce sellers with non-EU suppliers (dropshipping!)
Private individuals generally don't need one — unless they trade internationally on a regular basis. For trade purely within the EU, no EORI number is required.
Applying for an EORI number: 3 steps
1. Identify the responsible authority
In Germany, the General Customs Directorate (Generalzolldirektion, GZD) is responsible. The application runs online via the customs citizen and business portal.
2. Complete the application
Required details:
- Company name and legal form
- Business address in Germany
- VAT ID (if available)
- Commercial register number (for GmbH/UG)
3. Wait for confirmation
Processing usually takes a few working days. The application is free of charge.
Using your EORI number correctly
The number belongs on all customs-related documents: customs declarations, freight papers, import declarations. If it's missing, expect clearance delays — in the worst case storage fees and contractual penalties.
Validity: The EORI number doesn't expire. It remains valid as long as your business exists. However, changes (address, legal form) must be reported to customs promptly.
EORI vs. VAT ID — don't mix them up
| | EORI number | VAT ID | |---|---|---| | Purpose | customs clearance | VAT in EU trade | | Issued by | General Customs Directorate | Federal Central Tax Office | | Format | DE + number | DE + 9 digits |
Many traders need both — the VAT ID is covered in our VAT guide.
FAQ
What does an EORI number cost? Nothing — applying with customs is free.
How long does the application take? Usually a few working days after online submission. Longer if customs has follow-up questions.
Do I need a separate EORI number for each EU country? No. One EORI number is valid across the entire EU.
What happens without an EORI number? Your shipments won't be cleared — expect delays, storage fees, and fines for repeat offenses.
Do I need a German address for the application? Yes, for a German EORI number you need an establishment or business address in Germany. You can get a commercial-register-ready business address from Clevver fully digitally.