Bought a large expensive personalised item do I need a eori number

Hi I'm currently trying to buy a large printer from china it is for personal use it costs about £3500 and is about 120kg with accessories so needs to be sent by sea on a pallet the company I am buying it for says they will ship it CIF so I know I will be responsible to pay vat there is no important duty on this item I'm just very confused as wherever I look it says you need a eori number to clear customs but I can't get one as I'm not a business If I don't need a eori number then what is the process for me to declare the item and pay the vat one it arrived at the docks in the UK Thanks very much

Private individuals do not need an EORI instead your name and address would be declared. There is no possibility or option of declaring an import yourself so if the goods are coming by freight you will most likely need to engage a customs clearance agent/ broker at the port of arrival. The agent will make the declaration and pay charges on your behalf. They will charge for this service .

Hi Vartet202Carter
Thanks Customs oldtimer for your helpful post.
Usually the shipping company handles the customs declarations and charges. 
You’ll be contacted by Royal Mail, Parcelforce or the courier company if you need to pay any VAT, duty or delivery charges (‘handling fees’) to receive your goods. 
They’ll send you a bill stating exactly which fees you need to pay. 
A parcel would normally be held by them for about 3 weeks. If you have not paid the bill by then, your parcel will be returned to the sender.
You do not need an EORI number if you’re moving goods that are both:
• not controlled goods
• for personal use only
Thank you