How do I apply for an EORI number in Germany?

Summary

You can apply for an EORI number in Germany online through the official German Customs (Zoll) portal. The application is free of charge and requires you to provide specific company or personal identification numbers.

Key Details

An EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number is a unique identifier required for all businesses and individuals engaging in customs activities within the European Union. If your business is established in Germany, you must apply for your EORI number from the German customs authorities. This number will be valid across the entire EU.

The application process is handled by the German Master Data Management office in Dresden (Generalzolldirektion - Dienstort Dresden - Stammdatenmanagement).

The primary method for application is via the online portal:

1. Access the Portal: Use the German Customs' "Bürger- und Geschäftskundenportal" (Citizen and Business Customer Portal). You can also use the older "Internet-Beteiligtenantrag" (IBA) system, but the new portal is the recommended path.
2. Complete the Form: The application is made using Form 0870 ("Antrag auf Erteilung/Änderung einer EORI-Nummer"). You will fill this out electronically within the portal.
3. Provide Identification: You must provide your German tax number (Steuernummer) or, for individuals, your Tax Identification Number (Steuer-Identifikationsnummer). Companies registered in the commercial register must also provide their Handelsregisternummer.
4. Submit and Wait: After submission, the application is processed, and the EORI number is typically issued within a few days to a couple of weeks. You will receive official confirmation.

⚠️Compliance Risks

• Duplicate Applications: Do not apply for more than one EORI number. An economic operator should have only one EORI number for the entire EU. Applying for a second one can lead to administrative complications and delays.
• Incorrect Data: Ensure all company details (name, address, legal form) exactly match your official registration documents. Mismatches can cause application rejection or future customs clearance failures.
• Operating Without an EORI: Attempting to import or export goods without a valid EORI number will result in your shipment being stopped at the border until the number is provided.

Required Documents

While you don't upload documents in the traditional sense, you must have the following information ready to enter into the online application form:

For German Companies (e.g., GmbH, AG):

• Full legal company name and address
• Legal form (e.g., GmbH)
• German tax number (Steuernummer) from your local tax office (Finanzamt)
• Commercial Register number (Handelsregisternummer), if applicable
• Date of company establishment
• Contact person's details

For German Sole Proprietors / Individuals:

• Full name and address
• Date of birth
• Tax Identification Number (Steuer-Identifikationsnummer)

For Non-EU Companies applying in Germany (only if Germany is the first point of customs interaction):

• Full legal company name and address from your home country
• Proof of legal establishment in the third country (e.g., Certificate of Incorporation number)
• Tax registration number from your home country
• A justification for applying in Germany

Recommended Next Steps

1. Gather your German tax number (Steuernummer) and, if applicable, your Commercial Register number (Handelsregisternummer) before starting the application.
2. Access the German Customs Bürger- und Geschäftskundenportal to begin the online application.
3. Once you receive your EORI number, use the Dutifi EORI Validator to confirm it is active and correctly registered in the EU database.
4. For your first shipment, use the Dutifi Document Checklist→ to ensure you have all other necessary import/export paperwork in order.