---
title: "Binding Origin Information"
description: "Binding Origin Information (BOI) is an EU-wide system that lets you obtain a legally binding decision from an individual EU Member State on the origin of your goods. Obtaining a BOI is not mandatory."
language: en
canonical: https://www.flexport.com/glossary/binding-origin-information/
lifecycle: live
dateModified: 2026-10-08T14:57:55Z
topics:
  - "Customs & Compliance"
  - "Tariffs"
  - "Europe"
  - "Customs Brokerage"
---

# Binding Origin Information

Binding Origin Information (BOI) is an EU-wide system that lets you obtain a legally binding decision from an individual EU Member State on the origin of your goods. Obtaining a BOI is not mandatory.

## What is binding Origin information?

[BOI](https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/business/calculation-customs-duties/rules-origin/introduction_en) is an EU wide system. This system allows you to obtain a decision from an individual EU Member State on the origin of your goods. These decisions are legally binding throughout the EU. It is not mandatory for you to obtain a BOI. However, if you wish to have the origin of your goods clarified you can use the BOI system.

## When should you request a BOI decision?

A BOI decision helps when you're unsure which country counts as the origin of your goods or whether they qualify for preferential treatment. You apply to the customs authority of an EU Member State, and the decision is then recognized across the EU. Origin affects the duty rate and whether trade agreement preferences apply, so a clear decision can reduce the risk of later disputes.

A decision covers the specific goods and facts in your application. If the materials or manufacturing process change, check whether the decision still applies.

Back to the [full glossary](https://www.flexport.com/glossary/).

---

*This is a markdown version of [https://www.flexport.com/glossary/binding-origin-information/](https://www.flexport.com/glossary/binding-origin-information/) for AI/LLM consumption.*