What Is An EORI Number And When Is It Required In Ireland?

If you are importing or exporting goods into or out of Ireland, you will almost certainly come across the term EORI. For many people, especially first time importers, it feels like yet another confusing piece of paperwork in an already complicated process.

But the truth is, an EORI number is one of the most important parts of customs clearance. Without it, most shipments simply cannot be processed by Irish customs.

Whether you are a business importing stock, an individual bringing in a car, or someone ordering goods from outside the European Union, understanding EORI early can save you delays, stress, and unexpected costs.

Let us break it down properly.

What Does EORI Mean?

EORI stands for Economic Operators Registration and Identification.

In simple terms, it is a unique identification number used by customs authorities across the European Union to track who is importing or exporting goods.

Think of it like a customs ID.

Every customs declaration needs a named party. The EORI number tells customs exactly who that party is. It links shipments to individuals or businesses and allows authorities to calculate duties, apply VAT, and monitor trade activity.

In Ireland, EORI numbers are issued by Revenue and usually begin with IE, followed by your VAT number or a unique identifier if you are not VAT registered.

Once issued, the same EORI can be used across EU member states.

Why Ireland Uses EORI Numbers

Since Brexit, customs activity in Ireland has increased dramatically. Goods moving between Ireland and the United Kingdom now require formal customs declarations. That created a major shift in how imports and exports are handled.

To manage this volume and ensure compliance, customs authorities rely heavily on EORI numbers.

They help with:

• Clear identification of importers and exporters

• Tracking trade activity

• Accurate duty and VAT assessments

• Faster processing of declarations

• Better compliance monitoring

Without an EORI number, customs systems simply cannot process most declarations.

Who Needs An EORI Number In Ireland?

This is where people often get confused.

You generally need an EORI number if you are:

• A business importing goods into Ireland

• A business exporting goods out of Ireland

• An individual importing commercial goods

• An individual importing a vehicle

• A sole trader buying stock from outside the EU

• A company moving goods through Irish ports

• Anyone acting as the declarant on a customs entry

In other words, if your name or business is listed as the importer or exporter on a customs declaration, you will almost certainly need an EORI number.

There are rare exceptions for very small personal shipments handled entirely by couriers, but even then many courier companies now require an EORI regardless.

If you are importing a car, machinery, or business stock, an EORI is not optional.

When Is An EORI Number Required?

Timing matters.

An EORI number must be in place before a customs declaration is submitted. You cannot clear goods first and register later.

You will typically need it when:

• Goods arrive from outside the EU

• Goods are exported outside the EU

• A vehicle is imported into Ireland

• A freight agent submits a declaration on your behalf

• You register for deferred payment of duties

If your shipment arrives and you do not yet have an EORI, customs clearance will stop until one is issued. That delay can lead to storage fees, port charges, and unnecessary stress.

How To Apply For An EORI Number In Ireland

Applying for an EORI number in Ireland is relatively straightforward.

If you are VAT registered, your EORI is often linked to your business details through Revenue’s systems once customs registration is set up.

If you are not VAT registered, you can still apply through Revenue Online Service using your personal or business details.

You will normally need:

• Your PPS number or company registration number

• Proof of identity

• Business details if applicable

• Contact information

In many cases, EORI numbers are issued within a few working days, though during busy periods it can take longer. It is always best to apply before goods are shipped.

Common Mistakes People Make With EORI Numbers

A very common mistake is waiting until goods arrive to apply. Another is assuming the courier will handle everything automatically.

Some people also confuse their VAT number with an EORI number, or assume they are the same thing. While linked for many businesses, they are not always identical unless Revenue has already connected them.

Other frequent issues include:

• Providing incorrect personal or business details

• Using someone else’s EORI without authorisation

• Applying too late

• Entering the EORI incorrectly on shipping paperwork

• Leaving out key documents that support the shipment value

Any of these can slow down clearance.

Do Individuals Need An EORI Number?

Yes, in many cases.

If you are importing a vehicle, machinery, or commercial goods as a private individual, you will usually need an EORI.

Small online purchases may sometimes be handled by couriers under their own processes, but anything with higher value, larger size, or customs complexity often requires your own EORI.

If in doubt, assume you need one. It is far easier to have it ready than to scramble once a shipment is already sitting in a depot.

Final Thoughts On EORI Numbers In Ireland

An EORI number might seem like just another administrative step, but it plays a central role in customs clearance.

Without it, shipments stop. With it, goods move.

If you plan to import or export anything beyond basic consumer parcels, registering for an EORI early is one of the smartest things you can do. It keeps your paperwork compliant, prevents delays, and allows customs agents to act on your behalf quickly.

Whether you are running a growing business or importing a car for personal use, having your EORI in place before shipping gives you control over the process. And in customs, control saves both time and money.