EORI number

The first thing all traders will need is an Economic Operation Registration Identification (EORI).

This is a 12-digit number that will start with GB, and if you’re registered for VAT will include your VAT registration number.

This is needed so firms can continue to import or export goods to the EU or rest of the world in a no deal, and so they can apply for authorisations that will make customs processes easier. This will help ease the burden on those firms trying to prepare, but it’s just the first step for traders to be day one ready. There are also thousands of businesses that are not currently VAT registered that will not be automatically issued and still need to register themselves.