EORI number and ICS2

The EORI number (Economic Operator Registration and Identification number) is a unique identity number (customer number) from the Customs authorities in the EU. It starts with the country code for the EU-country that has assigned this. The rest is a number which is unique to this EU-country.

Who needs an EORI number?

Are you an economical operator that transports goods from a third country and into the EU security zone, you need to notify in advance through the EU information system ICS2 (Import Control System version 2). To access the system, you need to be registered with an EORI number. In the context of ICS2, it is the carrier who is responsible for submitting advance notice to the EU, not the consignee.

How to get an EORI number

EORI is not used in Norway. Instead, Norwegian and foreign companies have either an organisation number or a company number that identifies the company in their communication with Norwegian Custom.

As stated above, it is only companies that directly exchange information electronically with the Customs authorities in the EU that needs and EORI number for identification purposes. If these companies are not situated in EU, they may apply the Customs authorities in any EU country for a EORI number. We often refer Norwegian companies to Customs Sweden. Swedish customs have webpages with information on how to proceed in exchanging messages with EU and comments on their Common Repository (CR).

• Read more, and apply for an EORI number in Sweden here

Further, you will need to order a security certificate. You may only get this certificate from approved providers listed at LOTL (List of Trusted Lists).

• Search for approved providers

You may read more about EORI numbers on the website of the European Commission.

Please note that currently, ICS2 is implemented for postal operators and air cargo. Sea, road and train transport will be implemented in ICS2 in 2024.

• Check the validity of an EORI number: EORI number validation

Shipments directly to or from EU

If your company just import goods from EU or export goods to EU, you do not need an EORI number. In such cases, it is not your Norwegian company, but the importer/exporter in EU who is exchanging electronic information with the Customs authorities in EU, either directly themselves or by a customs agent.