As you are busy preparing for Christmas, please don’t forget to prepare for Brexit too! We are here to help you throughout the entire process. Any queries regarding Brexit please contact us via phone: 01753 764060 or email: brexit@absolutelycourier.com
Absolutely will keep you updated as the process unfolds, but here is some important information to consider in the lead up to the Brexit rush. Please add this first one to your Christmas to do list:
- Apply for an EORI number
What is an EORI number?
An EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) is an identification number for those businesses who participate in the importing or exporting goods into, or out of the EU. Every company is given their own unique EORI number which will be required on specific forms that customs will require going forward.
EORI numbers and Brexit
For UK registered companies who trade exclusively within EU countries, an EORI number was not required due to the UK forming part of the free trade area. However, Britain’s decision to leave the EU has changed the position when it comes to importing and exporting within Europe.
With the Country on the cusp of exiting the EU, and without a deal as yet in place, businesses need to be prepared for how this scenario may affect trade. Should the UK no longer be part of the free trade area, an EORI number will be needed to import or export goods across any EU country.
All UK businesses regardless of their size or the frequency with which it trades within the EU. Limited companies, sole traders, and partnerships will all be required to obtain one. Procuring an EORI number should be part of the process to ensure you can continue to trade with EU countries with minimal disruption going forward after Brexit.
If your company does not have its own unique EORI number then you will not be allowed to move goods in or out of the UK legally (in the event of a no-deal Brexit).
Before you apply
To apply you need your:
- VAT number and effective date of registration – these are on your VAT registration certificate
- National Insurance number – if you’re an individual or a sole trader
- Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) -if you do not know it www.gov.uk/find-lost-utr-number
- Business start date and Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code – these are in the companies’ house register www.gov.uk/get-information-about-a-company
- Government Gateway user ID and password
If you need a Government Gateway user ID, use either:
- The one for your business or organisation
- Your own if you’re applying as an individual
If you do not already have a user ID, you’ll be able to create one when you apply.
To apply www.gov.uk/eori
Should you have any questions then please do not hesitate to contact us, we’re here to help.