If you move goods to or from Northern Ireland

You will usually need an Economic Operators Registration and Identification number (EORI number) that starts with XI to do any of the following:

  • move goods into Northern Ireland from Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales)
  • move goods from Northern Ireland to another non-EU country
  • make a declaration in Northern Ireland
  • apply for a customs decision in Northern Ireland

You only need to declare certain goods you move from Northern Ireland to Great Britain. Check if you need to make an export declaration and will need an EORI number that starts with XI.

Only people or organisations based in Northern Ireland or the EU can be named as the ‘declarant’ on import and export declarations made in Northern Ireland.

When you do not need an EORI number that starts with XI

You do not need an EORI number that starts with XI if any of the following apply:

  • you already have an EU EORI number
  • you only move goods on the island of Ireland or between Northern Ireland and an EU country
  • your business is ‘established’ (has premises) in an EU country but not in Northern Ireland - in this case, you must apply in the EU country

If your business is not established (has no premises) in Northern Ireland or the EU

You need to register with the customs authorities of the place where you first make a declaration or apply for a decision.

How to apply

Find out how to apply for an XI EORI number.

Get help and advice if you move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Sign up for the Trader Support Service to get advice on EORI numbers and moving goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Find more guidance on moving goods to and from Northern Ireland.