EORI Number Registration in the Netherlands: What International Businesses Need to Know

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Expanding into the European market can create new opportunities for international businesses, particularly those involved in importing, exporting, and eCommerce. However, companies must understand the customs requirements before moving goods across EU borders. One of the key requirements is having an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number.

For businesses using the Netherlands as a European trade hub, EORI number registration helps ensure that customs authorities can identify them during import and export procedures. Without the appropriate registration, companies may face difficulties when submitting customs declarations or completing certain customs formalities.

This article explains how EORI registration works in the Netherlands, when foreign companies need it, and what businesses should consider before applying.

Why Is an EORI Number Important for International Trade?​

An EORI number is a unique identification code used by customs authorities across the European Union. It connects customs declarations and related activities to the relevant economic operator.

For example, a company importing electronics from China into the Netherlands may need an EORI number to complete the applicable customs procedures. The number helps customs authorities identify the business involved in the transaction.

An EORI number may be relevant for businesses that:

• Import products from countries outside the European Union.
• Export goods from the EU to international markets.
• Submit customs declarations in the Netherlands.
• Manage cross-border supply chains involving EU customs procedures.
• Operate an eCommerce business that imports goods into Europe.

It is important to understand that EORI registration is a customs requirement, not a general business registration. A company does not need an EORI number simply because it has a Dutch business address.

Can a Foreign Company Apply for an EORI Number in the Netherlands?​

Yes, businesses established outside the European Union may need an EORI number when they carry out relevant customs activities in the EU.

However, they should not automatically assume that they must apply in the Netherlands. The appropriate country of registration generally depends on where the non-EU business first performs the customs activity that requires an EORI number.

For instance, an overseas company importing products through Rotterdam may need to determine whether Dutch Customs is the correct authority for its registration.

Before starting the application, international businesses should identify:

• Where the company is legally established.
• In which EU country it will first carry out the relevant customs activity.
• Whether it already has an EORI number issued by another EU member state.
• Whether a customs representative is involved in its import or export process.

Checking these details first can help prevent duplicate applications and unnecessary administrative work.

How Does the EORI Number Application Netherlands Process Work?​

The application process depends on the company's establishment and customs circumstances. Businesses should follow the procedure set by the relevant EU customs authority.

The main steps generally include:

Step 1: Confirm the Registration Requirement​

First, the company should review its planned import and export activities. Not every business selling to European customers needs its own EORI number. The requirement depends on its role in customs procedures.

Step 2: Identify the Correct Customs Authority​

Dutch-established businesses generally deal with the Dutch Customs Administration. A non-EU company may need to apply in the EU country where it first carries out a customs activity requiring EORI registration.

Step 3: Collect Company Details​

Businesses should prepare accurate legal and identification information. This may include the registered company name, business address, registration details, and other information requested by the relevant authority.

Step 4: Submit the Application​

The application must be submitted through the applicable customs registration procedure. Companies should check that all details match their official business records.

Step 5: Confirm the Registration​

Once the application has been processed and approved, the business receives its EORI number. It can then use the number for the relevant customs activities.

EORI Registration and VAT Compliance: Why Businesses Should Plan Both​

EORI and VAT registration are different processes, but international businesses may need both when importing and selling products in Europe.

An EORI number identifies an economic operator for customs purposes. A VAT number identifies a business for VAT-related activities.

Consider an overseas eCommerce company importing products into the Netherlands and selling them to customers in different EU countries. Depending on its business model and transactions, it may need to consider customs registration as well as Dutch or other EU VAT obligations.

Businesses should therefore assess their customs and tax responsibilities together rather than treating EORI registration as the only requirement.

What Happens If a Business Does Not Have an EORI Number?​

If a company needs an EORI number but has not obtained one, it may be unable to complete the relevant customs procedures correctly.

Potential consequences include:

• Difficulties submitting customs declarations.
• Delays in import or export processing.
• Additional coordination with customs representatives.
• Disruption to planned shipments and supply chains.

Companies planning their first shipment into Europe should check their registration requirements early. Waiting until goods arrive at the border can create avoidable operational pressure.

Other Considerations When Setting Up a Business in the Netherlands​

Customs registration is only one part of operating in the Netherlands. International companies may also need to arrange business banking, payroll, tax registration, and ongoing administration.

For example, businesses employing staff in the country should understand their employer obligations and consider working with a reliable payroll company in the Netherlands . Professional payroll support can help manage salary administration and recurring payroll responsibilities.

Companies should also distinguish between personal or corporate banking arrangements and customs registration. Businesses researching international banking options, such as a non-resident bank account in the UAE or opening a bank account online in Australia as a non-resident, should remember that these arrangements do not replace Dutch or EU customs requirements.

How FirmNL Can Help With EORI Registration​

Foreign businesses entering the European market often need guidance on how different registration and compliance requirements fit together.

FirmNL supports international companies with Dutch business setup and administrative requirements. Its services include assistance with EORI number registration , helping businesses understand the relevant registration process and prepare the information needed for their application.

Companies planning their wider setup can also review FirmNL's guide on whether non-residents can open a bank account in the Netherlands .

With local support, businesses can better understand their customs, banking, and operational responsibilities before expanding into the Netherlands.

Surgery​

EORI registration is an important consideration for international companies carrying out customs activities in the European Union. Businesses using the Netherlands for importing or exporting should first confirm whether they need an EORI number and identify the correct customs authority.

Planning EORI registration alongside VAT, banking, and payroll requirements can help companies build a more organized approach to entering the Dutch and wider European market.