All examiners have at their disposal computer facilities for searching the search documentation. These allow, amongst other things, the use of the internal classification of the EPO (ECLA), which is based on the International Patent Classification (IPC) but comprises finer internal subdivisions. Searches can also be performed using other classification systems and/or words.

In The Hague and Berlin, in many technical fields, the systematically accessible search documentation is also arranged in paper form in a "pigeon-hole" filing system (practising multiple classification and filing where necessary) using the internal classification of the EPO.