What the EORI number is used for
Customs authorities use the EORI number to identify the businesses involved in a customs declaration – importer, exporter, declarant or representative. It is also used in other customs procedures and systems, such as safety and security declarations. One EORI number is valid throughout the EU.
Who needs an EORI number?
- EU-established companies that import or export goods to or from countries outside the EU, or otherwise take part in customs procedures.
- Companies established outside the EU that lodge customs declarations or other customs documents in the EU in their own name.
- Representatives such as customs brokers acting for others.
If you only sell goods between EU countries, you normally do not need an EORI number for that trade.
Where do you register?
| Your company | Where to apply |
|---|---|
| Established in an EU country | The customs authority in the country where you are established |
| Established outside the EU | The customs authority in the EU country where you first need to lodge a declaration or apply for a customs decision |
In Sweden, EORI numbers are issued by Swedish Customs (Tullverket). An EORI number starts with a two-letter country code. Numbers can be validated in the European Commission's EORI validation service.
EORI is not the same as the right to import
Having an EORI number does not settle every question about who may act in a customs declaration. Swedish Customs points out that a company established outside the EU cannot generally act as declarant merely because it has a Swedish VAT registration – an indirect representative may be required. Settle the importer and representation roles with your customs broker before the first shipment. See importing goods to Sweden from outside the EU.
EORI and your 3PL
A 3PL warehouse receives goods after they have been released by customs (or under the procedure your customs party has arranged). The warehouse needs the delivery and item data; the EORI number belongs in the customs declaration lodged by you or your representative. Karlholm Logistics is the warehouse operator and does not act as customs representative unless that has been separately agreed.
Source: Swedish Customs – EORI. Rules change; check the current guidance before you import.
Frequently asked questions
Does every company that sells to Sweden need an EORI number?
No. You need one if your company carries out customs activities in the EU – for example importing goods from outside the EU in its own name. Trade between EU countries does not require customs declarations.
Is the EORI number the same as a VAT number?
No. EORI is for customs; the VAT number is for tax. A company can have both, and having a Swedish VAT registration does not automatically allow a non-EU company to act as declarant.
Does Karlholm Logistics need my EORI number?
The warehouse itself does not lodge customs declarations. Your EORI number is used by you and your customs broker in the import process before the goods reach the warehouse.
Short definitions in the glossary: EORI – Economic Operators Registration and Identification
This page gives general information about logistics terms. It is not legal, customs or tax advice, and it does not describe the terms of any specific agreement with Karlholm Logistics.