10 QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE EXPORTING GOODS FROM THE U.S.

Shipping your goods from the U.S. without a hassle requires the right permits, forms, and information.

The wrong documentation could mean delays or denial at the border,

and hefty monetary penalties.

Are you prepared? 10 questions to ask before

exporting from the U.S.

?

What am I exporting?

1

If you are not the manufacturer, be sure you have complete and accurate information

about the product.

Ask the manufacturer for: • Information about the product’s origin, function

and intended uses, including:

o country of manufacture

o Schedule B number or 10-digit Harmonized Tariff

Schedule (HTS) number

o Export Commodity Classification Number (ECCN)

Is my shipment subject to export controls?

2

Most exports from the United States are subject to export controls.

Type of goods: Exports controlled by:

Most commercial goods Export Administration Regulations (EAR), administered and

enforced by the Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and

Security (BIS)

“Dual-use” goods (goods that may have

both a commercial and military purpose) EAR

Defense articles and services

International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), administered and

enforced by the Department of State, Directorate of Defense Trade

Controls (DDTC)

Certain other goods Other government agencies, including Food and Drug

Administration, Drug Enforcement Agency, Department of Energy

Find out if your shipment is subject to regulations by determining the ECCN using the Commerce Control List (CCL).

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Does my export require a license?

3

License requirements are dependent upon an item’s:

• technical characteristics

• destination

• end-user

• end-use

Identify any license requirements or exceptions using an item’s ECCN in conjunction with the CCL.

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Most commercial goods are classified as EAR99 and do not require a license (unless being exported to certain countries).

Where am I exporting to?

4

Embargoed countries and those designated as supporting terrorist

activities are most restricted.

Some prohibited or restricted destinations include:

• Iran

• North Korea

• Sudan

• Syria

Restrictions apply for some products regardless of the

destination country.

Make sure you have the proper license, license exception, or approval from the right government agency before exporting to a prohibited or restricted destination.

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Who will receive/use my product?

5

Certain individuals and organizations are prohibited from receiving U.S. exports, others may only receive goods if they have been licensed.

Consult the “denied parties” lists maintained by the Departments of Commerce, State, and Treasury every time an export shipment is contemplated.

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How will the product be used?

6

Some end-uses are prohibited, others may require a license.

No matter what your item is, you may not export to:

• certain entities involved in the proliferation of

weapons of mass destruction and the missiles to

deliver them, without specific authorization

Get the remaining questions

Download PDF

To learn the remaining questions you should ask before exporting goods from the U.S., download our PDF.

Ship your goods from the U.S. without a hassle…

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