Export Controls: Classifying Your Item

Summary

The video script outlines the process for determining the export control classification number (ECCN) for products subject to the Export Administration Regulations. It explains that ECCNs are found in the Commerce Control List and provides three methods for obtaining an ECCN: self-classification, asking the manufacturer, or submitting a request to the Bureau of Industry and Security. The script also details how to self-classify by understanding the structure of an ECCN and using the Commerce Control List, and mentions the availability of a decision tree tool on the Bureau's website. It advises on what to do if self-classification is not successful and highlights the importance of knowing the ECCN for export license requirements.

Takeaways

• 📦 Determine the classification of the item you want to export by identifying the proper Export Control Classification Number (ECCN).
• 🔍 The ECCN is essential for navigating the Export Administration Regulations (EAR).
• 📋 HTS code and Schedule B number do not help in determining the ECCN.
• 🌐 All ECCNs are found in the Commerce Control List on the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) website.
• 🔧 There are three ways to determine the ECCN: self-classify, ask the manufacturer, or submit a classification request to BIS.
• 🔍 Understand the structure of an ECCN and the technical parameters of your item before starting the self-classification process.
• 🔡 An ECCN is a 5-character alphanumeric code, with the first character representing one of the ten categories in the Commerce Control List.
• 🛠 If your items are not specifically described in the Commerce Control List, they likely fall into the basket category called EAR99.
• 🌲 BIS has a decision tree tool on its website to assist with self-classifying items.
• 📄 The commodity classification process takes on average two to four weeks, and you can include up to six line items per request.

Q & A

What are the Export Administration Regulations (EAR)?

The Export Administration Regulations are a set of rules that govern the export of goods and technologies from the United States. They are designed to ensure that exports do not pose a risk to national security or foreign policy interests.

What is an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN)?

An ECCN is a five-character alphanumeric code used to classify items for export control purposes under the EAR. It helps determine the regulatory requirements for exporting a specific item.

Why can't an ECCN be determined based on the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code or Schedule B number?

The HTS code and Schedule B number are used for customs purposes and do not provide the necessary technical details required for export control classification under the EAR.

Where can I find the Commerce Control List (CCL)?

The CCL can be found on the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) website by navigating to the 'Regulations' section from the menu bar and selecting 'Export Administration Regulations'.

What are the three methods to determine an ECCN for an item?

The three methods to determine an ECCN are self-classification, asking the manufacturer, or submitting a classification request to the BIS.

What does the first character of an ECCN represent?

The first character of an ECCN is a number from 0 to 9, representing one of the 10 broad categories in the CCL.

What does the second character of an ECCN signify?

The second character is a letter from A to E, indicating the type of item or product group within the category.

What is the 'EA r99' category in the CCL?

The 'EA r99' category is a basket category for items that are subject to the EAR but not specifically described in the CCL. Many consumer goods are designated as EA r99.

What is the purpose of the BIS decision tree tool?

The BIS decision tree tool assists exporters in self-classifying their items by guiding them through the process of determining the correct ECCN.

How long does the commodity classification process with BIS take on average?

The commodity classification process with BIS takes on average two to four weeks.

What is a SNAP-R account, and why is it needed for submitting a classification request to BIS?

A SNAP-R account is an online system used for submitting license applications and other requests to BIS, including commodity classification requests.