Thinking of exporting to the EU? Maybe you’ve had an enquiry from a European buyer and you’re not quite sure where to start. Don’t worry — you’re not alone, and you’re in the right place to learn how to export from the UK to the EU.
Exporting to the EU is a fantastic opportunity for UK businesses to grow and sell into new markets. The EU is right on our doorstep, making it an ideal first step into international trade. And yes, it’s a little trickier post-Brexit — but only if you don’t know what you’re doing. That’s where we come in.
In this post, we’ll answer the big question — how do you export to the EU? — and address other common questions like is an EORI number mandatory? and how much does it cost to get one?
Let’s walk through it.
1. Do I Need an EORI Number to Export to the EU?
Yes – it’s mandatory.
An EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) is essential if you want to trade goods with the EU. It’s used by HMRC to track imports and exports.
How much does an EORI number cost?
Absolutely nothing. It’s free when you apply directly through HMRC. Some websites charge a fee to apply on your behalf — but there’s no need to pay.
You can apply here: https://www.gov.uk/eori
2. Know Your Commodity Codes
Before exporting, you’ll need to determine the correct commodity code (sometimes called a tariff code or HS code) for your goods. This classification helps customs authorities determine:
- Whether you need a licence to export the goods
- What duties and taxes apply (this is important if you’re shipping DDP, more on this in step 3).
- What documentation is required
Getting this wrong can lead to delays, fines, or even your goods being seized — so it’s important to get it right.
3. Choose the Right Incoterm
Incoterms (short for International Commercial Terms) define who is responsible for what during the shipping process. That includes:
- Who arranges and pays for shipping
- Who completes the export/import declarations
- Who’s responsible for obtaining licences (if applicable)
- Who holds the risk if goods are lost or damaged
- Who pays duties and taxes
Choosing the right Incoterm early in the process is crucial, because it affects your pricing, documentation, and responsibilities. For example:
- Under FCA (Free Carrier), the buyer collects the goods, but you need to arrange the export declaration.
- Under DAP (Delivered at Place), you arrange the shipment and export paperwork, and the buyer handles the import declaration and taxes.
- Under DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), you are responsible for exporting the goods out of the UK and importing them into the EU, including paying the duties and taxes – it can be tricky but it’s manageable with the right support.
4. Choose a Courier or Freight Forwarder
Once you and your buyer are happy to proceed, you’ll need a courier (for smaller shipments) or a freight forwarder (for larger or more complex loads).
What your shipping partner does depends on the Incoterm you’ve chosen:
- FCA: Your forwarder completes the export declaration.
- DAP: Your forwarder handles the export declaration and transport. The buyer sorts out import duties and taxes.
Need help choosing the right partner or managing documentation? We can help with that.
5. What About VAT?
You might be wondering: Do I need to pay VAT on exports to the EU?
Short answer: No.
As the goods are not consumed in the UK, VAT isn’t usually charged at the point of export. However — and this is a big one — you must be able to prove the goods have left the UK.
What counts as proof of export?
You need to keep valid evidence within 90 days of export. This can include:
- A cleared export entry from your forwarder
- A proof of delivery (POD) from your courier
- A transport document, like an authenticated CMR or airway bill
The Incoterm you use will influence how easy this is to obtain. Whatever happens, get at least one of these documents — ideally both.
This proof protects you in case of a VAT audit. Without it, HMRC could demand backdated VAT and apply penalties.
Additional Help: Training and Services
Exporting is a lot — but you don’t have to go it alone. Here’s how we can help.
Training Courses
If you’re new to exporting, our expert-led sessions are the perfect place to start:
- A Guide to Exporting and Export Documents
Learn the export process from start to finish — including paperwork, customs, and compliance. - Understanding Incoterms 2020
Make sense of Incoterms, understand the risks, and choose what works best for you. - Applying Commodity Codes & Classification of Goods
Get hands-on with tariff codes — and learn how to classify your goods properly.
Hands-On Support
We also offer done-for-you services if you need someone to manage it all:
- Export declarations — we file these on your behalf and make sure you get proof of export
- Shipping arrangements — including liaising with forwarders or couriers
- Licence checks & documents — so nothing gets stuck at customs
Ready to get started?
Email our friendly team at team@exporter-services.co.uk or call 0115 727 0018 to tell us a bit about your business. We’ll help you figure out what support you need and provide a tailored quote.
Need Ongoing Help?
If you plan to manage your own exports but want support with the odd question or tricky shipment, our Helpdesk is here for you. Get expert advice, whenever you need it. Email us at team@exporter-services.co.uk or call 0115 727 0018 to get started.
Summary: Exporting to the EU in 5 Steps
- ✅ Apply for an EORI number (free from HMRC)
- ✅ Identify the correct commodity code for your goods
- ✅ Agree on an appropriate Incoterm with your buyer
- ✅ Choose a courier or freight forwarder to handle logistics
- ✅ Keep proof of export for VAT compliance
Exporting might seem overwhelming at first — but with the right steps, support, and guidance, it becomes second nature.
Take the first step today — get in touch or explore our training.
Call: 0115 727 0018
Email: team@exporter-services.co.uk
