# Guarantee Reference Number

*Last updated: 2026-06-26*

> The Guarantee Reference Number (GRN) uniquely identifies a customs guarantee for the entire period it remains valid, allowing authorities and principals to track every draw, partial release, and outstanding balance without ambiguity.

The Guarantee Reference Number (GRN) uniquely identifies a customs guarantee for the entire period it remains valid, allowing authorities and principals to track every draw, partial release, and outstanding balance without ambiguity. It is issued by the competent customs authority at the time the guarantee is established and must be quoted correctly on every declaration lodged against it. Within the European NCTS, the system cross-checks the GRN automatically against the available guarantee amount; a wrong or missing number results in immediate rejection of the declaration. Freight forwarders and principals rely on the GRN to reconcile claims quickly when discrepancies arise. It is distinct from the Movement Reference Number (MRN), which identifies an individual transit declaration rather than the guarantee backing it.

**Source:** [https://iccwbo.org/resources-for-business/banking/bank-guarantees/](https://iccwbo.org/resources-for-business/banking/bank-guarantees/)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Guarantee Reference Number |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 121 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-26 |
| Source | https://iccwbo.org/resources-for-business/banking/bank-guarantees/ |

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