There are normally governmental changes afoot with the start of a new year, and France’s customs system has made a significant change that will impact export and import businesses.
The new clearance system Delta IE has been introduced at French customs. Although the changes were meant to go into effect on January 1st 2026, the French government has allowed for a small grace period while companies organise themselves to adhere to the new rules.
Previously it had been possible for a French company’s EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification which allows companies to trade between the UK and European Union) to be linked to two different business identifiers - the SIREN number or their SIRET number. However, in a bid to streamline the system, the new rule is for the EORI number to only be linked to a SIREN number.
Related article: Start a Business in France in 8 Steps
A SIREN number is a 9-digit business identification number for fully registered French businesses which is necessary for all French administration including taxes, whereas the SIRET is a number given out by the French national institute of statistics (INSEE) which is responsible for collecting and publishing data on France’s economy and population. (For more information on EORI numbers, see our article: EORI number explained: what it is and why you need it to trade.)
The latest advice is to check if you already have an EORI based on the SIREN number, and if not, begin the process for applying for a SIREN number without delay, otherwise you could see difficulties arising when trying to get your goods across the borders. You can find out more at the French government website or you can speak to our team on 0033 (0) 1 53 57 49 10 or email us through our contact page to reach out to our experts who can help you with the process of applying.
