EORI Number and AEO
An EORI number - amongst other things - is required in order to participate in customs procedures. Easements in customs procedures may derive from obtaining an AEO status.
The EORI number (“Economic Operators Registration and Identification” number) is a number unique throughout the EU that is assigned by the designated authority in the European Union in order to identify economic operators and, where applicable, other persons to the customs authority.
An EORI number is generally granted to economic operators established in the EU. An EORI number can only be granted to economic operators from other countries for specific activities, e.g. lodging an entry summary declaration, specific customs declarations or acting as a carrier oneself. Economic operators from outside the EU generally must register for EORI purposes with the customs authorities of the EU member state responsible for the place where they first lodge a declaration or apply for a decision. More information on how to apply for an EORI number in Germany is available on the German customs authority’s website.
Companies registered in the EU can apply for certification as an Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) from the respective Head Customs Office. Certified companies are considered as being particularly trustworthy within the member states of the European Union and are able to take advantage of certain easements in customs clearance. Their risk assessment is also looked upon more favorably; meaning that they are not as frequently affected by customs controls. The European Commission informs in more detail about AEO status. Germany has its own online portal for AEO applications.
