Green Circle Talks Cross Border] Attention! France Customs will stop using invalid EORI numbers from Nov. 20, 2023

EORI Number Overview

The EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) number is a system for identifying and registering economic operators involved in cross-border trade. Each EU member state has its own EORI system, and EORI numbers are usually issued by national customs or similar authorities to simplify and strengthen regulatory and security controls on cross-border trade.

Apply for a French EORI number

If you are engaged in cross-border trading activities in France, you will need to submit an application to the French Customs or the relevant government agency to obtain an EORI number. A valid SIREN/SIRET number is required for this application.

New EORI regulations in France

Effective November 20, 2023, French Customs will validate and deactivate EORI numbers associated with invalid SIREN/SIRET. French EORI numbers are mainly used for online services such as DELTA G and DELTA X, which are related to cargo clearance.

SIREN and SIRET numbers

• SIREN number: A 9-digit numeric identifier used to identify enterprises and their legal entities.
• SIRET number: A 14-digit identifier that includes the SIREN number and an additional five-digit number representing the specific location of the business.

Impact of French EORI numbers

1. EORI numbers can only be applied for using a valid SIREN number and only once per SIREN number.
2. It is not possible to apply for a French EORI number using a tax code from another EU country.
3. If the SIREN number is invalidated, the EORI number will be invalidated simultaneously.

Difference between VAT and EORI

• VAT number: A country-specific tax identification number used for filing tax returns.
• EORI number: A common EU-wide import and export registration number used for import customs clearance.

Latest Change Notification

Starting September 1, 2023, some UK-registered seller accounts will begin to be subject to Amazon's withholding service. Sellers will need to ensure that they provide a valid UK VAT account number and relevant documentation to avoid freezing of funds and account risk.

Sellers are encouraged to review and update their EORI numbers and tax information to ensure compliance.