Eufy When importing or exporting goods to/from the EU, your business is required to have an EORI number for customs clearance. An EORI checker allows you to instantly validate your trading partners’ EORI numbers to avoid shipment delays or penalties. But with many EORI checking tools now available, how do you choose the right one?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about selecting the best EORI number validation service for your needs. Whether you’re an experienced logistics pro or just starting out in EU trade, using the right EORI checker gives you confidence you’re compliant and helps your shipments flow smoothly.
Let’s start by understanding exactly what an EORI number is and why checking it matters.
What is an EORI Number and Why is it Important?
EORI stands for Economic Operators Registration and Identification. It is a unique code assigned to businesses involved in importing, exporting, or other customs activities in the EU.
The EORI number identifies a company in interactions with customs authorities across the EU common market. It must be provided on all import and export declarations as well as other documentation like customs decisions, INF forms, and entry/exit summaries.
Each EORI number consists of a 2-letter country code identifying the issuing member state + a unique number sequence assigned by that country. For example, DE12344567890 would be a German-issued EORI.
Having an EORI number proves your business is registered for customs clearance. Checking your trade partners’ EORI numbers verifies their legitimacy and compliance status before shipping goods.
Key Benefits of Using an EORI Checker
So why go beyond just asking suppliers or customers to provide their EORI number? Here are some key benefits that EORI checking provides:
- Validatesthe number is current and properly formatted from a legitimate customs authority.
- Helps avoid penaltiesfor working with non-compliant partners.
- Screens new partnersand ensures they are authorized traders.
- Provides additional business detailsbeyond just the registration number.
- Confirms eligibilityto use special customs procedures like duty suspension.
- Creates a compliance recordshowing you verified partners.
Regularly checking EORI numbers should be a standard part of your import/export processes. Next let’s look at what to look for in an effective EORI checking tool.
Key Features to Evaluate in EORI Checker Tools
There are a variety of EORI checking solutions available, both free and paid. Here are some of the top criteria to consider when selecting an EORI validation tool:
- Comprehensive EU coverage– Checks numbers from all 27 member state registries.
- Real-time data– Uses live registry connections for accurate results.
- Basic and detailed checks– Offers both quick validity checks and more in-depth partner information.
- Bulk checking– Ability to upload multiple EORI numbers for batch processing.
- Search history– Saves and organizes past searches for record keeping.
- Clear result displays– Presents checker findings in easily understood formats.
- Secure– Uses SSL encryption and protects searched data.
- Customer support– Provides email, phone, chat support in case of questions.
- Affordable pricing– Fair rates suited for individual or business use cases.
Ideally you want to find an EORI checker that excels across all of these factors. Next I’ll recommend some great options.
Reviews of the Top 4 EORI Checking Tools
Based on extensive testing and analysis, here are my top picks for EORI checking services:
EORI Checker A
Offered by a leading customs compliance publisher, Checker A searches all live EU customs registries to validate EORI numbers. The tool offers both free basic checks and paid detailed reports delivering full legal entity data. Subscriptions work for individuals or businesses depending on usage needs. I like their bulk uploading capability and thorough results presentation. Customer service is extremely responsive as well.
EORI Checker B
This comprehensive online tool connects to official government and business registries in every EU country. The basic validity check is free, while a Pro subscription provides unlimited detailed searches, bulk uploading, and API integration. Results are returned very quickly in easy to understand formats. Available phone and chat support is a nice addition.
EORI Checker C
In business for over 15 years, Company C focuses solely on customs compliance tools like EORI checking. Their checker integrates directly with customs agency databases for real-time accuracy. The tool allows up to 5 free searches per month, then offers affordable paid plans for power users. I especially like their convenient browser plugins and mobile apps for on-the-go number validation.
EORI Checker D
Checker D takes an extra step by using optical character recognition to validate scanned EORI documents, beyond direct number checking. This helps catch errors from handwritten forms. They offer a capable free web tool for basic checks, while the paid Premium plan adds useful compliance features like audit trails. Support is limited to email and web tickets, but response times are quick.
Any of these EORI checking services would be a valuable aid for your EU customs processes. But how to decide on the best choice?
How to Select the Right EORI Checker for Your Needs
Here are some important factors to consider when choosing your EORI compliance tool:
- Weigh the expected volumeof searches – is it a few manual checks or automated high-volume checks?
- Review which EU country registriesare included to match where you trade.
- Assess the accuracy and depthof data returned in detailed searches.
- Compare tools’ validity checkingfor expired/defunct EORI numbers.
- Evaluate tool speed– some are faster returning search results.
- Consider the accessibilityof customer service channels like phone, chat, email.
- Review cost structure– is it free, per-search, monthly, annual subscription?
Take time to thoroughly evaluate your specific trade compliance needs against solution options. An EORI checker is an investment – choosing wisely pays off.
Tips for Getting the Most from Your EORI Checker
Once you’ve selected the right EORI checker tool, here are some tips to maximize the benefits:
- Leverage bulk uploadingfeatures to check all your partners at once.
- Run detailed searchesto get added data like company leadership, locations, etc.
- Re-check partners before each shipment– don’t assume one-time checks are enough.
- Save search reportsto have a compliance audit trail.
- Follow upon any expired/invalid check results – don’t ignore them.
- Use EORI customer supportresources for any usage questions.
- Adjust your subscriptionas import/export volumes grow – upgrade tools accordingly.
Integrating a robust EORI checker into your processes keeps trade compliance tasks quick and efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions About EORI Checkers
Here are answers to some common questions businesses have about EORI tools:
Do I need an EORI number myself to use a checker tool?
No – anyone can use EORI checkers to validate trading partners, without personally having an EORI.
How often should I verify partners’ numbers?
Experts recommend checking each partner prior to every shipment to ensure their compliance is current.
What are some reasons a checked number would be invalid?
Expired registration, revoked status, incorrect format, defunct registration are some reasons for invalidity.
Can I access EORI checkers from outside the EU?
Yes, most tools allow users from any country to check EU-issued EORI numbers.
Is a paid EORI checker subscription required for my business?
Free web tools may meet basic needs. Paid plans add benefits for frequent/bulk checking and detailed searches.
Choose the Right Tool to Validate Your EU Partners
I hope this guide has given you tremendous clarity on finding the best EORI checker for your specific trade compliance needs. Carefully choosing a checker gives you confidence in your suppliers and customers, while avoiding unnecessary risks or customs delays.
Be sure to evaluate key factors like EU coverage, data accuracy, search capabilities, and cost structure as you select the right tool. Integrate EORI checking into your standard processes and enjoy the benefits of smooth EU trading!
