FRANCE UPDATES ITS EORI SYSTEM
France is making important changes to its Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) system, which may impact businesses involved in customs operations. Until now, French EORI numbers were assigned based on the SIRET identifier, which corresponds to individual establishments within a company. This meant that businesses with multiple establishments in France could have several EORI numbers, even though EU regulations require that each legal entity hold only one. To align with these rules, French Customs is shifting to a system where EORI numbers will be based on the SIREN identifier, which represents the company as a single legal entity at the headquarters level.
This transition nd will be implemented gradually to accommodate businesses currently using SIRET-based EORI numbers. During this period, systems such as Delta Import will continue to recognise both old and new EORI numbers, allowing for a smoother adjustment. For companies established in other EU Member States, existing EORI numbers remain valid and no further action is required. However, businesses established in France that currently use a SIRET-based EORI number will need to obtain a new number under the SIREN system. The application process is available through the SOPRANO EORI online service provided by French Customs.
Non-EU companies that have previously registered for an EORI number in France are advised to check whether their current number aligns with the new structure and take any necessary steps to update it.
Businesses affected by this change should make the transition as soon as possible to avoid any disruptions in customs operations. Further details and guidance can be found on the official French Customs website.