EORI: what it is, who needs it, and what to do before importing from China
2026.10.15
What the rules say
The EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) is the unique number customs assigns to your company to identify it across the European Union [1]. It is governed by the Union Customs Code, in force since 1 May 2016[2].
It is mandatory for any customs operation (import, export or transit). Each operator can only hold one valid EORI at a time, and it does not expire [1].
What happens without it: customs will not process your declaration and your goods will not be cleared: they are held at port and storage charges start to run.
In Spain, if your company is established there, the EORI is ES + your NIF and is assigned automatically upon registration [3].
Who is affected
Company established in Spain: you need one, but you almost certainly already have it (ES + NIF). You do not have to do anything except check it.
Company outside the EU that imports: you need one. It is assigned in the country where you carry out your first customs operation.
Individual buying occasionally: not required. Private individuals without economic activity are exempt; in Spain they declare under the -P- code [3].
What to do (and what we do)
If it applies to you, there are two steps:
Check whether you already have one. Use the European Commission EORI validator and see whether your number shows as valid. Most Spanish companies already have one.
If you do not have one, request it. Apply at the Spanish Tax Agency (AEAT) Electronic Office, under the EORI registration, with a digital certificate or Cl@ve. If you operate from outside the EU without a NIF, there is a specific form on the AEAT Customs portal. Do it before your goods leave China, not when they are already at port.
What we do. We do not request the EORI on your behalf — it is your tax identity in Spain — but before every shipment we check with you that it is ready and valid. If it is not, we tell you exactly what to do so you do not pay storage charges at port.
Everything in writing, with figures verified before boarding.
