Importing into the EU: FAQs
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Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) numbers are unique identifiers assigned by customs authorities for businesses engaged in international trade.
To obtain an EORI number:
Value-Added Tax (VAT) is applied to the sale of goods and services within the EU. Non-EU businesses importing goods into the EU must pay VAT at the time of import.
Aside from VAT, other costs may apply:
Research and budget for all applicable trade-related costs when planning imports to the EU.
Importers into the EU are responsible for paying VAT on imported goods.
No, registration is required only in the member state where goods are imported. VAT number from this state can be used for imports into other EU states.
For efficiency, consider VAT registration in each importing member state through the VAT Mini One Stop Shop (MOSS) system.
VAT rates and rules vary by country within the EU:
Consult with tax professionals or local authorities for compliance with specific VAT requirements for imports into the EU.
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