How to Sell on Amazon UK After Brexit: Navigating Customs, EORI, and FBA Changes

How to Sell on Amazon UK After Brexit: Navigating Customs, EORI, and FBA Changes

Selling across Europe was once simple for Amazon UK sellers until Brexit changed the game. Now, cross-border selling involves new customs rules, EORI requirements, and separate FBA operations for the UK and EU. While the changes may seem complex, understanding them helps you stay compliant, avoid delays, and continue growing your Amazon business confidently.

1. No More Inventory Transfers Between the UK and EU Before

Brexit, Amazon allowed UK sellers to store products in one warehouse and sell across all European marketplaces through programs like the European Fulfilment Network (EFN) and Pan-European FBA.

Now, this is no longer possible. UK-based sellers must store inventory separately one batch for the UK and another for EU countries like Germany, France, or Italy. This separation increases storage and shipping costs, but it also means sellers must plan inventory distribution more strategically to avoid stockouts or high delivery fees.

2. You Need an EORI Number

If you’re selling products across the UK-EU border, you need an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number. It’s your business ID for customs clearance. Without it, your goods can be delayed or stopped entirely at the border.

  • Use a UK EORI number (GB...) for importing goods into the UK.
  • Get an EU EORI number if you’re sending stock to European warehouses.

You can apply for both easily via HMRC or through your freight forwarder. This is a vital step for smooth customs operations.

3. VAT Registration Requirements Have Changed

Brexit also ended the shared EU VAT system. Now, if you store or sell products in multiple EU countries, you must register for VAT in each country separately. For example:

  • Stock in Germany = German VAT registration.
  • Get an EU EORI number if you’re sending stock to European warehouses.

In the UK, the VAT threshold is currently £90,000 per year, but non-UK sellers must register immediately if they use UK FBA. Amazon offers VAT Services on Amazon to simplify this process for cross-border sellers.

4. Increased Customs Checks and Shipping Costs

Every shipment between the UK and EU now requires customs declarations, import duties, and VAT payments. These add time, paperwork, and costs.

To reduce delays, many sellers are now partnering with EU-based 3PLs or using Amazon’s Multi-Country Inventory (MCI) to store stock closer to their European customers. Although this requires more planning, it ensures faster delivery and better customer satisfaction.

5. Tools and Programs to Simplify Post-Brexit Selling

Amazon offers several programs that can help you navigate the new logistics landscape:

  • EFN (European Fulfilment Network): Sell from UK stock to EU customers, but manage customs yourself.
  • MCI (Multi-Country Inventory): Store inventory in multiple EU countries for faster delivery.
  • Amazon Global Selling: Expand beyond Europe to new international markets.
  • VAT Services on Amazon: Manage VAT registration and filings across multiple countries.

Using these tools reduces manual work and keeps your operations compliant.

Final Thoughts

Selling on Amazon UK after Brexit is more complicated but far from impossible. By managing EORI registration, split inventory, VAT compliance, and customs clearance, you can still scale your business across Europe.

The key is to plan ahead, automate where possible, and work with reliable logistics or Amazon service partners. With the right setup, your Amazon UK store can thrive across borders, even in the post-Brexit era.

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