Shopify & Your EORI Number: Unpacking Where to Store This Crucial Customs ID
Hey fellow store owners! Let's dive into a topic that often sparks a bit of head-scratching, especially for those of us navigating the exciting (and sometimes complex) world of international shipping: the EORI number. We recently had a great discussion pop up in the Shopify Community, started by @etienne21, asking the very practical question: “Where in Shopify can I store that number?”
It’s a fantastic question, and one that highlights a common point of confusion. With new regulations always on the horizon – like the upcoming July 1, 2026, deadline for EORI setup referenced in Shopify's own help documentation – it’s natural to want to get your ducks in a row. You've got your EORI number from your tax authorities, now what?
The EORI Conundrum: Why You Won't Find a Dedicated Field in Shopify (Yet!)
The core of the issue, as Priyasha from the community pointed out so clearly, is that there isn’t a dedicated EORI field directly in the Shopify admin. And that’s okay! It’s not an oversight; it’s simply because the EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number isn't something used at checkout or for calculating taxes within Shopify itself. Instead, it’s a customs ID, crucial for paperwork when your parcels cross international borders, particularly within and into the EU.
Steve_TopNewYork chimed in with a similar sentiment, suggesting that while checking Settings → Taxes and Duties is always a good first step for tax-related info, a specific EORI field isn't there right now. Both community members hinted at the possibility that Shopify *could* introduce such a field closer to the migration deadline, but for now, we need to look elsewhere.
So, Where Does Your EORI Number Actually Live?
This is where the community insights really shine and give us actionable steps. Since the EORI number is primarily for customs declarations and shipping labels, its home isn't within Shopify's general settings, but rather within the systems that handle your shipping logistics. Think of it this way: Shopify manages your store, products, and orders, but the heavy lifting of getting a package from your door to your customer's is often handled by specialized tools or partners.
Practical Steps for Storing and Using Your EORI Number:
Based on the expert advice shared, here’s where you should be focusing your efforts to ensure your EORI number is correctly applied to your international shipments:
- Your Carrier Account Settings:
- If you’re directly using major carriers like DHL, UPS, FedEx, or others to print your shipping labels, you’ll typically find a place to input your EORI number within their online portals or desktop software. This is often under your account settings, international shipping preferences, or customs information section. Once entered there, it usually populates automatically onto your customs declarations.
- Your Shipping App Settings:
- Many Shopify merchants leverage third-party shipping apps (e.g., ShipStation, ShippingEasy, Sendle, etc.) that integrate with Shopify to streamline label creation. These apps are designed to handle the nuances of international shipping. Dive into the settings of your specific shipping app. Look for fields related to customs declarations, exporter details, or international shipping profiles. This is a very common place for your EORI to be stored and used.
- Communicate with Your Fulfillment Partner:
- If you work with a fulfillment center or dropshipping partner, they are the ones physically shipping your products. In this scenario, the simplest and most effective approach is to directly share your EORI number with them. They will then be responsible for ensuring it's included on all necessary customs paperwork for your EU-bound shipments. Make sure you get confirmation that they've received and implemented it correctly!
Looking Ahead & A Friendly Reminder
While Shopify currently doesn't have a dedicated field, it’s always wise to stay informed. As Steve_TopNewYork mentioned, things can change, especially with significant deadlines looming. Shopify is constantly evolving to meet merchant needs, and a more integrated solution might appear down the line.
In the meantime, if you've explored the options above and are still unsure, or if you just want peace of mind, don't hesitate to reach out to Shopify Support. They can provide the most up-to-date information specific to your region and store setup. They're there to help you make the most of your Shopify store and navigate these important compliance details.
The key takeaway from this community discussion is clear: the EORI number is vital for smooth international shipping, but its home isn't necessarily inside your Shopify admin. Instead, it resides with your shipping infrastructure – your carriers, your apps, or your fulfillment partners. Get it set up in those places, and you'll be well on your way to hassle-free EU deliveries! 