EORI Number in Germany

An EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number identifies your business to customs across the EU. This page explains the Germany EORI format, how to get one from German Customs (Generalzolldirektion / Zoll), and lets you validate any number instantly.

Germany EORI format

A German EORI is DE followed by a number assigned by the Generalzolldirektion. It is not derived from your VAT ID — it is issued with your "Beteiligten-Stammdaten" (participant master data) record.

How to get an EORI number in Germany

1. Confirm your business is established in Germany (or has the required customs registration there).
2. Apply to the Generalzolldirektion (Dienstort Dresden) through the Zoll citizen/business portal (Bürger- und Geschäftskundenportal) using the "Beteiligten-Stammdaten" registration.
3. Have your VAT ID or tax number, company name and registered address ready.
4. Receive your EORI number — usually within a few working days — and validate it below before your first declaration.

Official source: German Customs (Generalzolldirektion / Zoll).

Cost, validity and processing time

• The EORI number is free — German Customs (Generalzolldirektion / Zoll) does not charge for issuing it.
• It is valid EU-wide. Once any member state has issued your EORI, you do not need another one to declare goods in other EU countries.
• A business established outside the EU registers in the member state where it first lodges a customs declaration or appoints a representative — not necessarily Germany.
• Processing normally takes a few working days, though incomplete applications are the most common cause of delay.

Frequently asked questions

How do I apply for a German EORI?

German businesses apply to the Generalzolldirektion, Dienstort Dresden, via the "Beteiligten-Stammdaten" form or the Zoll citizen/business portal.

Is the German EORI the same as my VAT number?

No. Unlike some member states, Germany assigns a dedicated EORI number with your customs master-data record — it is not your USt-IdNr. with a DE prefix.

Do I need an EORI number to import into Germany?

Yes. Any business lodging a customs declaration in Germany — importing or exporting goods — needs a valid EORI number registered with the customs authority.

Where do I register for an EORI number in Germany?

EORI numbers for Germany are issued by German Customs (Generalzolldirektion / Zoll). You apply through their online customs registration service.

How do I check if an EORI number is valid?

Use the free EORI checker on this page. It validates the number in real time against the official European Commission EORI service and returns the registered trader where publicly consented.

Related tools

EORI ValidatorTariff & duty lookupHS Classifier

EORI numbers in other countries

AustriaBelgiumBulgariaCroatiaCyprusCzechiaDenmarkEstoniaFinlandFranceGreeceHungaryAll countries →

This page provides general guidance only — it is not legal or customs advice and may be incomplete or out of date. Always confirm EORI requirements and validate any EORI number with the official European Commission EORI service and the relevant national customs authority before relying on them.