Shopify EU Shipping – Print Tax Identification Numbers on Labels

For Shopify business owners within the European Union (EU), understanding the role of Tax Identification Numbers (TINs) is essential. In this blog, we’ll explore why TINs matter to EU-based e-commerce businesses on Shopify and how to correctly add them to shipping labels using the Multi-Carrier Shipping Label app for Shopify.

TINs are fundamental for EU taxation and compliance. We’ll also discuss their significance in ensuring your business conforms to EU tax regulations and clarify the specific types of TINs needed for international shipping within the EU.

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What is a Tax Identification Number (TIN)?

A Tax Identification Number (TIN) is like a special ID for your business in terms of taxes. In the United States, it’s often called an Employer Identification Number (EIN). It helps the government keep track of your business’s tax-related activities.

Types of Tax Identification Numbers Used in the EU

If you’re shipping products to other countries, especially in Europe, you might need a different kind of TIN. Some common ones are:

VAT, VOEC, and EORI are all related to eCommerce business in the EU. Here’s what they mean:

VAT

  • VAT stands for Value-Added Tax.
  • It is a tax on goods and services in the EU.
  • The VAT rate varies depending on the country and the type of goods or services.
  • Online sellers, including online marketplaces/platforms, can register in one EU Member State and this is valid for the declaration and payment of VAT on all distance sales of goods and cross-border supplies of services to customers within the EU.

VOEC

  • VOEC stands for VAT On E-Commerce.
  • It is a scheme implemented by the Norwegian Tax Administration to collect value-added tax (VAT) on low-value goods and remotely deliverable services sold by foreign online shops and marketplaces to Norwegian consumers.
  • The VOEC scheme applies to physical goods valued at NOK 2,999 or less.
  • Online sellers in Norway must comply with VOEC, and foreign companies selling goods to Norwegian consumers online are obligated to register for it.

EORI

  • EORI stands for Economic Operators Registration and Identification.
  • It is a unique number used by customs and other authorities to monitor and track shipments coming into and out of the European Union.
  • Online sellers who import or export goods to or from the EU need an EORI number.

In summary, VAT is a tax on goods and services in the EU, VOEC is a scheme implemented by the Norwegian Tax Administration to collect VAT on low-value goods and remotely deliverable services sold by foreign online shops and marketplaces to Norwegian consumers, and EORI is a unique number used by customs and other authorities to monitor and track shipments coming into and out of the European Union.

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Print Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) Number on Shopify Shipping Labels

  • Navigate to the app’s settings and select the ‘Address’ tab from the menu.
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  • Now, select the already existing From Address or create a new Address. Fill in the shipping details, and at the bottom, choose ‘Tax ID Type‘ as ‘Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI)‘ and enter the EORI number in the ‘Tax ID or Registration Number‘ section, then click on ‘Add‘.
EORI Number

Print VAT on e-commerce (VOEC) Number on Shopify Shipping Labels

  • Select the already existing From Address or create a new Address. Fill in the shipping details, and at the bottom, choose ‘Tax ID Type‘ as ‘VAT on e-commerce (VOEC)‘ and enter the VOEC number in the ‘Tax ID or Registration Number‘ section, then click on ‘Add‘
VOEC Number
  • Now, generate and print a shipping label. The shipping label will contain the EORI/VOEC numbers for your shipments, as shown below
EORI/VOEC PostNord Label

FAQ about Tax Identification Numbers

Which TIN should I use?

The right TIN for your business depends on a few things. It depends on where your stuff is coming from, where it’s going, and what you’re selling. You can find out which TIN you need for a specific country by checking their embassy or government website. It’s a good idea to talk to a tax expert to be sure.

How do I get one?

Each TIN has its own rules and forms you need to follow. Many countries have info about how to get one on their government website. In many cases, you’ll fill out a form online.

How many TINs can I have?

You can have more than one Tax Identification Number, especially if you’re shipping to different countries.

Can I ship internationally without a TIN?

If your shipment involves taxes and duties, you’ll probably need a TIN. If you don’t include the right TIN, you might face fines and delays, or your stuff might be sent back. But not every country requires VAT or duties, so the rules can be different. To be sure, check the government website of the country you’re sending to or ask a tax expert.

Conclusion

In conclusion, for EU-based Shopify businesses, comprehending and effectively managing both Tax Identification Numbers (TINs) and VAT on E-commerce (VoeC) is vital. These elements play a pivotal role in ensuring smooth operations, tax compliance, and an efficient global shipping experience within the European Union. By addressing TINs and VoeC requirements adeptly, Shopify merchants can navigate the complexities of international e-commerce with confidence and ease.

Furthermore, Shopify businesses can streamline the process of including essential information such as TIN on their shipping labels by utilizing the user-friendly Shopify Multi-Carrier Shipping Label app, ensuring accurate compliance effortlessly.