UK Post-Brexit Shipping: How to Register for a GB EORI Number as a Small Business

After the UK’s exit from the EU, significant changes have occurred in trade between the UK and the EU, particularly in terms of customs clearance. For small businesses shipping goods from China to the UK, understanding and complying with new UK customs regulations is crucial. Below is a detailed guide on registering for a GB EORI number and the transition from CE to UKCA certification.

What Is an EORI Number?

An EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) is a unique identifier assigned by customs authorities to businesses and individuals engaged in cross-border trade. It is mandatory for UK-based businesses trading internationally, as well as for EU businesses exporting goods to the UK. After Brexit, UK businesses trading with the EU must have both a UK EORI number and an EU EORI number.

Steps to Register for a GB EORI Number

1. Determine Whether You Need an EORI Number: If your business imports goods into the UK or exports to the EU/non-EU countries, transports goods through UK customs as a logistics provider, or acts as a customs agent on behalf of other businesses, you need to register for an EORI number.
2. Gather Required Information: Prepare the following documents:
   • Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), which can be found on your tax return or a letter from HMRC.
   • Business start date and Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code, available in the Companies House register.
   • VAT number and effective date of registration (if VAT-registered), found on your VAT registration certificate.
   • National Insurance number (for individuals or sole traders).
3. Apply Online: Visit the UK government’s HMRC website and log in to your Government Gateway account. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one. Navigate to the UK EORI number application page and fill out the form with the information gathered in Step 2.
4. Verify Your Email: After submitting the application, you’ll receive an email from HMRC. Click the link to verify your email address.
5. Receive Your EORI Number: If HMRC does not require further checks, you’ll receive your GB EORI number immediately. If checks are needed, it may take up to 5 working days.

Transition from CE to UKCA Certification

The UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) mark is a new product marking introduced by the UK government to replace the EU’s CE marking. From January 1, 2021, most goods previously requiring CE marking that are sold in England, Wales, and Scotland must bear the UKCA mark. Here’s what you need to know about the transition:

• Scope of Products: The UKCA mark applies to a wide range of products, including toys, electrical and electronic equipment, machinery, and construction products.
• Transition Period: To allow businesses time to adapt, the UK government has set a transition period. Until December 31, 2024, businesses can continue to use the CE mark for goods sold in Great Britain. However, starting January 1, 2025, the UKCA mark will become mandatory.
• Application Process: To obtain the UKCA mark, businesses need to follow these steps:
  • Perform a conformity assessment of the product to ensure it meets UK regulations.
  • Prepare a UK Declaration of Conformity, which must include the product description, standards met, and the name and address of the manufacturer or authorized representative.
  • Affix the UKCA mark to the product or packaging. The mark must be at least 5mm in height and clearly visible.

Birmingham Customs Clearance Document Template

To facilitate customs clearance in Birmingham, businesses can use a customs clearance document template. Below is a link to download a sample template. You can modify it based on your specific circumstances:

Birmingham Customs Clearance Document Template Download Link

Other Notes

• Importance of EORI Numbers: Without an EORI number, HMRC will not process goods, leading to potential shipping delays. Customs authorities use the EORI number to quickly identify businesses, reducing border delays and ensuring compliance with trade regulations.
• Consequences of Not Having an EORI Number: Shipments without an EORI number may be rejected by customs. Importers/exporters may face delays, financial penalties, and even seized or detained goods at the border.
• XI EORI Numbers: If your business is located in Northern Ireland and trades with non-EU countries, you need to apply for an XI EORI number. To do so, you must first obtain a GB EORI number and submit an XI EORI registration form. You’ll also need to provide proof of a permanent business establishment in Northern Ireland, such as a bank statement and utility bill