German EORI Overview
Germany is the European Union's largest economy and a major hub for international trade. German EORI numbers, identified by the "DE" prefix, are issued by the Generalzolldirektion (Central Customs Authority) and are required for all businesses conducting import, export, or transit operations through German customs.
German EORI Format
German EORI numbers have a distinctive format consisting of the country code "DE" followed by up to 15 alphanumeric characters. Unlike some EU countries where EORI is based on VAT numbers, German EORI numbers are independently assigned by customs authorities.
Example:
DE123456789012345Note: German EORI numbers are typically all numeric after the DE prefix, though alphanumeric combinations are possible.
Who Needs a German EORI?
A German EORI number is required if your business is established in Germany and engages in customs activities, or if you're a non-EU business conducting your first customs operations in Germany.
You Need a German EORI If:
- Your company is registered and established in Germany
- You import goods from non-EU countries into Germany
- You export goods from Germany to non-EU destinations
- You operate customs warehouses or processing facilities in Germany
- You act as a customs declarant for third parties in Germany
- You're a non-EU company with Germany as your first point of EU customs operations
You May Not Need a German EORI If:
- Your EU establishment is in another member state (apply there instead)
- You only make occasional personal imports (non-commercial)
- You already have an EORI from another EU country (it works EU-wide)
How to Apply for a German EORI
German EORI applications are handled by the Generalzolldirektion. There are two main application methods: online through the Zoll-Portal or via paper form.
Method 1: Online Application (Recommended)
- Create a Zoll-Portal Account: Register at www.zoll-portal.de. You'll need a valid email address and business information to create an account.
- Access EORI Application: Navigate to the EORI registration section within the portal. Select "New EORI Application" from the available services.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill in all required fields including company name, legal form, registered address, tax identification numbers, and contact details.
- Upload Supporting Documents: Attach required documentation including business registration extract and any authorization documents.
- Submit Application: Review all information for accuracy and submit. You'll receive a confirmation with a reference number.
- Await Processing: German customs will verify your information. Processing typically takes 1-3 weeks.
- Receive EORI: Once approved, your EORI number will be communicated through the portal and by email.
Method 2: Paper Application (Form 0870)
Alternatively, you can submit a paper application using form 0870. Download the form from the Zoll website, complete it, and send it with supporting documents to:
Dienstort Dresden
Stammdatenmanagement
Submit by email as PDF or by fax. Contact details are on the form.
Required Documents
German customs requires comprehensive documentation to process EORI applications. Prepare the following before starting:
For German Companies:
- Handelsregisterauszug: Current extract from the commercial register (not older than 3 months)
- Tax Registration: Proof of registration with the tax office (Finanzamt)
- VAT Number: If VAT-registered, your USt-IdNr. (Umsatzsteuer-Identifikationsnummer)
- Company Legal Documents: Articles of association or partnership agreement for verification of legal form
- Identification: ID or passport copy of authorized signatories
- Power of Attorney: If application is submitted by a representative
For Non-German/Non-EU Companies:
- All documents listed above plus:
- Certificate of Incorporation: From your country of establishment
- Apostille/Legalization: Documents may need apostille or consular legalization
- Certified Translations: German or English translations of documents not in these languages
- Proof of Business Activity: Evidence of intended customs operations in Germany
Processing Time and What to Expect
German EORI applications typically take longer than in some other EU countries due to thorough verification procedures.
Typical Timeline:
- Application Submission: Day 1
- Initial Review: 3-5 business days
- Verification Period: 1-2 weeks
- EORI Assignment: Up to 3 weeks from submission
After Receiving Your EORI
Once your German EORI is assigned:
- Verify it in the official EU EORI validation database
- Update your business systems and documentation templates
- Inform freight forwarders, customs brokers, and trading partners
- Store the number securely for use in all customs declarations
German Customs Authority Contact
For questions about German EORI registration or customs matters:
Generalzolldirektion (Central Customs Authority)
- Website: www.zoll.de
- EORI Information (English): Zoll EORI Page
- Zoll-Portal: www.zoll-portal.de
The German customs website (zoll.de) provides extensive information in both German and English, including FAQ sections and detailed guides for various customs procedures.