Definition of ECCN Number
The ECCN (Export Control Classification Number) is a code the U.S. Department of Commerce (Bureau of Industry and Security, BIS) uses to identify export-controlled goods and technologies. This number determines whether an item, technology, or software is subject to U.S. export controls and whether an export license is required. The ECCN number helps to identify which goods, technologies, or software are subject to U.S. export controls. It provides exporters with the information necessary to ensure compliance with U.S. export regulations.
ECCN Code Format
The ECCN code consists of five characters, usually a combination of letters and numbers. The format is as follows:
First character (letter): Indicates the category to which the item belongs. The U.S. export control regulations categorize items into 10 main categories, from 0 to 9. For example, category “3” represents electronic equipment, category “5” represents computer technology, etc. The second character (number) further specifies the subcategories of the item, such as “1”, “2”, “3”, “4”, and “5”.
The second character (number) further designates the subcategory or technology category of the article.
Third to fifth character (numeric): Used to distinguish the specific item of the article under its category, usually coded by technical or functional characteristics.
For example, ECCN code “3A001”:
- 3: stands for the category of electronics and computers
- A: stands for equipment, software, or technology (different letters for different items)
- 001: specifically identifies the subdivision of the item
Uses of ECCN Codes
The primary uses of ECCN codes include:
Export Control Compliance: Determine if a license is required to export a product and help exporters comply with U.S. export control regulations.
Identify Restricted Items: Determine which commodities, software, or technology are subject to export restrictions in a particular country or region.
Apply for an Export License: If an item is assigned an ECCN, exporters can apply for the appropriate export license based on the ECCN.
Trading Partner Compliance: Determine if a product or technology can be exported to a specific country or designated entity to avoid violating U.S. national security or foreign policy.
Ways to find an ECCN number
Obtaining a Manufacturer or Supplier: For commercial shipments, the most direct way to find an ECCN number is to ask the manufacturer or distributor of the item, who will usually know the ECCN number for the product they make or sell.
Use the BIS Web Search Tool: Use the U.S. Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry and Security’s (BIS) Export Control Classification Tool to see if a consignment is subject to the EAR and find the corresponding ECCN number.
Submit a Classification Request: A product classification request can be submitted online through the Simplified Web Application Redesign (SNAP-R) to allow an official professional to determine a product’s ECCN.
Check the CCL Index: If the consignment is on the Commodity Control List (CCL), the CCL Index can quickly retrieve the ECCN number.
What does the EAR99 designation mean?
EAR99 is a classification mark in the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) that indicates that certain items are not classified under a specific ECCN classification but are still subject to U.S. export controls. EAR99 items are typically standard, non-sensitive commodities, technology, or software but may still be subject to export restrictions in certain countries or under certain circumstances.
