# Where an EORI number is used

> Where the Commission guidance says an EORI number must appear: declarations, summary declarations, carnets, excise, AEO and enforcement of intellectual property rights.

- Canonical URL: https://eorilookup.com/eori-on-customs-documents/
- Source: [European Commission, EORI guidance document](https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu/document/download/bbe4c653-3b6d-4bed-932c-61bb77711384_en?filename=EN_EORI%20Guidance%20document.pdf)
- Checked: 2026-10-21

## The general rule

Once granted, the number must be used in all customs transactions and activities in the EU where an identifier is required ([guidance](https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu/document/download/bbe4c653-3b6d-4bed-932c-61bb77711384_en?filename=EN_EORI%20Guidance%20document.pdf)). It is mandatory or conditional in many data fields of declarations and summary declarations, for roles such as declarant, importer, carrier, consignor and consignee. The guidance sets out the requirement for each role in tables; we have not reproduced the box numbers.

## Other uses the guidance names

- **Authorised Economic Operator (AEO).** An EORI number is required to obtain AEO facilitations and appears on the application.
- **Excise.** It is used for movements of excise goods under duty suspension.
- **Intellectual property.** An applicant who seeks customs action against goods suspected of infringing intellectual property rights must register.
- **Carnets.** For ATA and CPD carnets the number goes in specified boxes (box A for ATA, box 1 for CPD). Carnet covers should not show it.

## Things the number is not

- **Not an ad hoc number.** Ad hoc numbers are not EORI numbers and cannot be used in summary declarations.
- **Not a third-country identifier.** Third-country unique identifiers can be used where a recognised trader partnership programme applies, alongside the rules for EORI.
- **Not a validation of the address.** Addresses in customs declarations are not checked against the EORI database.

## Summary declarations

The guidance says a summary declaration that carries an EORI number should not also include a name or address.

## Late applications

Late applications can delay processing, because new numbers may not yet be available in the electronic systems. This is why the Commission advises applying before customs activity starts.

Declarations are separate. This page does not explain how to complete a customs declaration. For that, use the customs authority's own instructions.

---
EORI Lookup Guide · Contact: contact@eorilookup.com