What is the difference between a business ID and an EORI?
When completing an import declaration or export clearance, you need to include an ID number on the declaration so that customs can affiliate the entry with your business.
Until now, your business identity number has been enough, regardless of whether you are registered as an economic operator or not.
However, from the 2nd September, your business ID will not be accepted on customs declarations. You must have an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number instead. This shows that you have registered for trading on the international market with customs.
Typically, an EORI number is made up of the following format:
Country code (FI for Finland) + business ID. EG “FI1234567-8”.
In some countries, like the UK, the business ID section can be the VAT number. The number may also be extended with some 0s on the end.
You can check your business ID with the above format to see if you have a registered EORI here.
What to do if you haven’t got an EORI number
If you do not yet have an EORI number, then you need to obtain one before the 2nd September so that you can keep your goods moving.
Applications typically take two working days; however, we recommend getting one as soon as possible to ensure that it is in place in good time.
If you are a Finnish company
You can use Finnish custom’s e-service here to apply for an EORI number.
Alternatively, you can complete the PDF form and email it to customs.
If you are established outside of the EU
You can complete the English application form and email it to customs. Note that the content is different to the form for Finnish companies, so read the instructions before applying.
Need help with the change?
Customs Support are here to make customs easy for you. If you need assistance with obtaining an EORI number, our customs consultants in Finland will be happy to help you. Contact us for assistance.
