When to run the check
Run the check before preparing a customs declaration, creating a vendor record, accepting shipping instructions or relying on an EORI copied from an invoice or email.
- New importer, exporter, supplier or consignee onboarding.
- A customs declaration was rejected or delayed.
- The EORI country prefix or number format looks inconsistent.
What the result can confirm
The lookup can confirm whether the number is returned as valid by the official TAXUD validation service. It does not certify ownership, authority to trade, solvency or compliance history.
What to document
Keep the EORI number, country prefix, lookup result, source and timestamp with the shipment or onboarding record if the decision matters operationally.
FAQ
Is an EORI number the same as a VAT number?+
No. In some countries the identifiers can look related, but an EORI is used for customs identification while VAT registration has a separate tax purpose.
Can a valid EORI still be the wrong company?+
Yes. A valid response means the number is registered, not that the person using it is authorized to represent that operator.