Sigh... If there one thing that's worse than lack of information it's misinformation.

If you run a business, please make sure you are ONLY getting info from reliable sources.

/1 https://smallbusiness.co.uk/how-will-brexit-affect-my-imports-and-exports-where-to-find-customs-help-2550790/

No, you do NOT need an EU EORI number if you export to the EU.

No, EU companies do NOT need a UK EORI to export to the UK.

You only need the other EORI number in some very limited cases.

/2

Finding a customs agent is not a way to "relieving the red-tape burden".

/3

It's NOT a customs agents job to "keep abreast of the changing rules and regulations, and make sure that their clients have all the paperwork and licenses they need to import goods to the UK."

/4

It's the client's responsibility. A good customs agent will help you with that, but their job is to submit your info on your behalf to customs authorities. They are paid per customs declaration.
To understand rules, upcoming changes etc you need a consultant.

/5

Most of these are premium services. Again agents are paid by declaration, they won't check your commodity codes! Unless you ask them and pay for it separately if they provide this kind of service

/6

Oh good grief! No, they won't.

I'm going to stop reading now but articles like this are deeply damaging.

/7

You are creating unrealistic expectation and giving businesses a false sense of security ("I don't need to do anything, my agent will take care of that").

/8

This is so not true and not what businesses need to hear now.

/9

So, again, if you're a business looking for info beyond what's on HMRC's website (here's what they have on EORI https://www.gov.uk/eori ) make sure you're speaking to the right people and getting reliable information.

/end