Customs processes are now in place when importing and exporting goods between the UK and the EU
All companies exporting or importing from the EU to the UK must have an EORI number (Economic Operator Registration and Identification number). Your EORI number is linked to your VAT number. In September 2019 all VAT-registered companies were automatically issued with an EORI number, even if one wasn’t requested. Any company without an EORI number can apply for one at www.gov.uk/eori
Your EORI number should be included on all commercial and Pro Forma invoices to aid customs clearance.
Completing Commercial / Proforma Invoice
It is imperative that you provide a completed commercial/proforma invoice for all dutiable shipments going to the EU. It must have the following information to ensure smooth movement through Customs.
- Exporter’s EORI number
- Consignee’s EORI number Including this will facilitate the prompt clearance of your shipments.
- Value. All goods must have values in order for customs to process the shipment.
- Consignee’s telephone number. Ideally, this needs to be a number from the destination and not a UK mobile number
- Consignee’s email address
- HS Codes (If not known can be searched on https://www.trade-tariff.service.gov.uk/a-z-index/a
- Country of origin
- Goods Description needs to be on both Waybill and the Commercial invoice / Pro-Forma Invoice.