---
title: "EIN (Employer Identification Number)"
description: "An EIN is a tax ID that the US government uses to identify business entities located in the US. It is used by Customs to associate entities with their import or export dealings such as Customs bonds, Customs entries, and ISF filings."
language: en
canonical: https://www.flexport.com/glossary/employer-identification-number/
lifecycle: live
dateModified: 2026-10-08T14:58:14Z
topics:
  - "Customs & Compliance"
  - "Customs Brokerage"
---

# EIN (Employer Identification Number)

An EIN is a tax ID that the US government uses to identify business entities located in the US. It is used by Customs to associate entities with their import or export dealings such as Customs bonds, Customs entries, and ISF filings.

## What is an EIN?

An EIN is a tax ID that the US government uses to identify business entities located in the US. This is used by Customs to associate entities with any of their import or export dealings such as Customs bonds, Customs entries, ISF filings, etc.

Foreign importers can obtain a Customs Assigned Importer Number (CAIN) for these purposes.

If you don't have an EIN, you will be assigned a CAIN.

## Where do you get an EIN?

Businesses apply for an EIN with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and US-based applicants can usually do so online at no cost. The number has nine digits and is typically written as XX-XXXXXXX.

## Why does an EIN matter for imports?

As an importer of record, you'll typically use your EIN on your customs bond, entries, and Importer Security Filing (ISF). Using the same number consistently helps customs match your filings to your business. A mismatch can delay clearance.

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

---

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