Question 1

What is an ECCN?

Accepted Answer

An Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) is a five-character alphanumeric code used by the U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security to identify items on the Commerce Control List. The ECCN determines whether an export license is required to ship an item to a specific country.

Question 2

How do I find my product's ECCN?

Accepted Answer

There are three ways: (1) ask your manufacturer or supplier — they often know the ECCN of their products; (2) use the ECCN search above to look up codes by keyword or browse by category; (3) for products with complex specifications, use an automated classifier like Lenzo that analyzes product descriptions and assigns the correct ECCN.

Question 3

What's the difference between ECCN and EAR99?

Accepted Answer

EAR99 is a designation for items subject to the Export Administration Regulations but not specifically listed on the Commerce Control List. Most low-technology consumer goods fall under EAR99 and can typically be exported without a license, except to embargoed countries or restricted end-users. ECCN-classified items, on the other hand, require analysis against the Commerce Country Chart to determine licensing requirements.

Question 4

Do all products need an ECCN?

Accepted Answer

Not all products need a specific ECCN. Items not listed on the Commerce Control List are designated EAR99. However, every export still requires due diligence to verify the destination country, end-user, and end-use are not restricted. For products on the CCL, the ECCN determines license requirements.

Question 5

What are the consequences of incorrect ECCN classification?

Accepted Answer

Incorrect classification can result in significant penalties, including fines up to $300,000 per violation or twice the value of the transaction (whichever is greater), denial of export privileges, and in serious cases, criminal prosecution. Misclassifying a controlled item as EAR99 to avoid licensing is a particularly serious violation.

Question 6

How often does the Commerce Control List update?

Accepted Answer

The CCL is updated approximately 8 to 12 times per year through Federal Register rules from BIS. Changes can include new ECCN entries, revised technical parameters, modified country controls, or removed entries. The most current version is maintained in 15 CFR Part 774, Supplement 1.

Question 7

ECCN vs HS code vs Schedule B — what's the difference?

Accepted Answer

These are different classification systems with different purposes. ECCN identifies items for export control licensing. HS code (Harmonized System) is a 6-digit international standard used for customs and tariffs. Schedule B is a 10-digit U.S. extension of HS used for export statistics. A single product typically has all three: an ECCN, an HS code, and a Schedule B number.

Question 8

Where is the official Commerce Control List published?

Accepted Answer

The legal text of the Commerce Control List appears in Supplement No. 1 to part 774 of the Export Administration Regulations (15 CFR Part 774). BIS also updates entries through Federal Register rules when controls change. Use this lookup to research entries quickly, then confirm license requirements against the current regulation and the details of your shipment, end-user, and end-use.

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