What is an EORI number and what is it used for?
An EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number uniquely identifies traders dealing with EU Customs. It is mandatory for customs clearance (import, export, transit) and when applying for customs authorisations; whether you file declarations yourself or appoint an agent. At any point in time, an entity can have only one valid EORI.
Who needs it?
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EU‑established operators performing customs activities.
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Non‑EU operators lodging customs/entry/exit/temporary‑storage declarations or acting as carriers in the EU.
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You still need an EORI even if a customs broker submits the declaration on your behalf.
EORI vs VAT
A VAT ID is for taxation and invoicing; an EORI is for customs procedures. They serve different purposes and are not interchangeable.
Validity & uniqueness
EORI numbers do not expire automatically; they can be invalidated, e.g., if business ceases. Only one valid EORI may exist per person/entity at a time.
Netherlands: how to obtain your EORI
Route 1 — You submit customs declarations in NL yourself
You may self‑compose your EORI:
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Start with “NL”,
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add your RSIN (pad with leading zeros to 9 digits).
Example: RSIN 123456 → NL000123456. Register it via the National Customs Helpdesk (NHD) webform; Customs will automatically verify and register it upon first use. There is no fee.
Route 2 — A third party files for you, you file abroad, or your head office is outside the EU
Apply via the NHD application (use the special form when your head office is outside the EU).
Check/lookup an EORI
- Validate an EORI in the EU EORI database (visibility of name/address depends on the holder’s consent).
- Also check your Dutch Customs letters, previous declarations/invoices, or ask your customs broker.
Trading with Great Britain (post‑Brexit)
If you move goods to/from Great Britain, you need a GB‑prefixed EORI (EU EORI is not sufficient for GB formalities).
Cost
Obtaining or self‑composing an EORI in the Netherlands is free of charge.
