What is an EORI number and why do I need it when importing products from China?
What: Just like your VAT number, your EORI number is associated with your business. You need the EORI number to conduct business and activities beyond the borders that involve customs. The customs authorities can exchange data more efficiently within the EU using the EORI number.
You are importing goods from outside the EU, specifically from China, and then an import declaration is made here in the Netherlands (EU), for which the EORI number is required.
How do I activate my EORI number?
Before you and the customs authorities can use your EORI number, it needs to be active. In some cases, your EORI number may be automatically activated (this is usually the case for Belgians), but often you need to activate it yourself, which is a straightforward process.
Check if your EORI number is active! You can do this by clicking on this entire sentence. 😎
If it says "This EORI number is not valid," then your EORI number is not yet active, and you can proceed to step 3! If it says "This EORI number is valid," then you're done.
🇳🇱 For our Dutch entrepreneurs, you can activate your EORI number as follows. You can activate your EORI number by digitally filling out this form, then downloading it and emailing it to EORI.aanvragen@belastingdienst.nl. It may take 1 to 3 business days for the Tax Authorities to activate your EORI number.
🇧🇪 For our Belgian entrepreneurs, you can apply for the EORI number by emailing this form to EORI.be@minfin.fed.be!