Yes, GB hauliers need an EU (or XI) EORI number to import accompanied freight into the EU for ICS2.
You should apply for just one XI or EU EORI number, and this must be the EORI number of the territory you will first be importing into.
For example, if your first shipment will be into Northern Ireland, you should apply for an XI EORI number, and you may use this going forward.
Where and how to apply
Applying for an XI (Northern Ireland) EORI Number
Who Should Apply: Businesses moving goods into/out of Northern Ireland.
Requirements: First, get a GB EORI, then apply for XI EORI.
Apply online: Apply for XI EORI
Processing usually takes up to 5 days.
Applying for a France (FR) EORI Number
Who Should Apply: Importers with their first entry point in France, or headquartered there.
To apply, visit: France EORI Guidance & Application
Follow French Customs’ instructions to submit key company and VAT information.
Applying for a Netherlands (NL) EORI Number
Who Should Apply: First-port importers into the Netherlands.
Apply here: Netherlands EORI Guidance & Application
Applying for a Spain (ES) EORI Number
Who Should Apply: Entities bringing goods first into Spain.
Apply here: Spain EORI Guidance & Application
Applying for a Belgium (BE) EORI Number
Who Should Apply: First customs declarations in Belgium.
To apply, visit: Belgium EORI PDF Guidance & Application
Applying for an Ireland (IE) EORI Number
Who Should Apply: Goods first entering via Ireland.
How to Apply:
Ireland requires direct contact with eCustoms Helpdesk. Email ecustoms@revenue.ie with:
- Full name
- Address
- Phone number and email
- Type of customs business activities
- Business type
- Application contact person
- Irish VAT number (if registered)
- Other EU Member State VAT numbers (if applicable)
- Confirmation you've not applied in another Member State
- Confirmation that Ireland is first point of entry
You can check if your XI or EU EORI number is correct on the EU EORI validation website.