EORI Guidance by Independent Experts
As independent customs consultants, we provide impartial guidance on EORI matters.
Whether you need a new EORI number, want to check your existing number’s status, or
need to update company details, we can help you understand the process and direct
you to the appropriate national authorities.
If you’re changing your company name or address, be sure to consult our comprehensive
EORI management checklist (pdf) for step-by-step instructions.
We focus on clarifying the regulations and options so you can move forward with confidence.
Why does the EORI checker say my number is invalid or not active?
An EORI number remains valid until it is formally invalidated. Invalid results are usually caused by one of the following:
- Incorrect entry: Check that the country prefix and subsequent digits match exactly the number assigned by your national customs authority.
- Inactive or unregistered number: Newly issued numbers may not yet have been uploaded to the EU’s central database. Updates typically take up to one day in most Member States; during that window, the checker will return “invalid.”
- Involuntary invalidation: Customs authorities can invalidate an EORI if a business ceases the activities that require an EORI (for example, insolvency or bankruptcy) or if the business’s VAT status changes.
- Voluntary invalidation: If you or your representative requested cancellation, the number will no longer be active.
If none of these reasons apply, contact the customs authority that issued the EORI to confirm your status and request activation.
My company’s name and address don’t show up - only “valid/invalid.” Why?
Publication of name and address in the EU EORI checker is voluntary. When applying or updating your EORI, you must consent to the publication of your details; otherwise, only the validity status appears.
To display your full details, log into your national customs portal (for example, Germany’s Zoll-Portal or Estonia’s e-MTA) and submit a change application allowing publication.
I changed my company’s name or VAT number. How do I update my EORI record?
EORI data do not update automatically. First update your business details in official commercial and tax registers.
Once visible, log into your national customs e-service (for example, e-MTA or the Zoll-Portal), start a new EORI management application, and submit the updated details.
For VAT number changes, some Member States (such as the UK) cancel the old EORI and require a new application.
Can an invalidated EORI be reactivated?
An invalidated EORI is marked inactive but stored in the database for 10 years.
If trading has resumed, contact the issuing customs authority. Some Member States allow reactivation; others require a new EORI application.
Voluntary cancellations often require a fresh application.
How do I revoke or close my EORI number?
If you no longer need an EORI, you can request invalidation through your national customs system.
For example, in Estonia’s e-MTA portal, this is done by submitting a new EORI application with a future expiry date.
Once expired, the EORI cannot be used but remains stored for ten years.
What should I check before using my EORI number on customs declarations?
- Verify the format: Ensure the country code and structure are correct.
- Match business records: Name, address and VAT details must align exactly.
- Confirm activation: Wait until the EORI shows as “valid” in the EU checker.
- Use the correct EORI: EU for EU customs, GB/XI for UK-related movements.
- Keep proof: Retain confirmation emails or screenshots.
Following these steps reduces the risk of rejected declarations, delays and penalties.
Can one company hold multiple EORI numbers?
No. The EU system allows only one valid EORI per legal person.
If multiple numbers exist due to error or restructuring, contact your national customs authority to invalidate duplicates.
Can one company hold multiple EORI numbers?
No. The EU system allows only one valid EORI per legal person.
If multiple numbers exist due to error or restructuring, contact your national customs authority to invalidate duplicates.