Export Control Blog

Expert guides on ECCN classification, ITAR compliance, EAR regulations, and practical export control best practices. Updated every Wednesday.

ECCN Basics

8 Common ECCN Classification Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Avoid the most frequent ECCN classification errors that lead to compliance failures. Expert tips for accurate export control classification.

May 27, 2026 7 min read
ECCN Basics

Self-Classification vs. BIS Classification Request: Which to Choose

Compare self-classification with formal BIS CCATS requests. Learn when each approach is appropriate and how to minimize risk.

May 20, 2026 6 min read
ECCN Basics

The 'Specially Designed' Definition Decoded: EAR §772.1

Master the two-part 'catch and release' framework for the 'specially designed' definition under the EAR. Critical for accurate classification.

May 13, 2026 9 min read
ECCN Basics

EAR99 Explained: What It Means and When It Applies

Understand the EAR99 designation — when it applies, what it does not cover, and why EAR99 items still require compliance checks.

May 6, 2026 6 min read
ECCN Basics

How to Read an ECCN Entry on the Commerce Control List

Learn to decode ECCN entries including headings, control parameters, license requirements, and notes. Essential reading for classifiers.

Apr 29, 2026 7 min read
ECCN Basics

Product Groups A Through E: CCL Classification Guide

Understand the five product groups on the Commerce Control List — equipment, test gear, materials, software, and technology.

Apr 22, 2026 6 min read
ECCN Basics

CCL Categories 0-9 Explained: What Each Category Controls

Complete guide to all 10 Commerce Control List categories. Understand what items each CCL category covers and how to identify yours.

Apr 15, 2026 7 min read
ECCN Basics

Understanding ECCN Classification: A Complete Guide

Learn how ECCN classification works under BIS Export Administration Regulations. Step-by-step guide to classifying items on the Commerce Control List.

Apr 8, 2026 8 min read
Licensing

The Commerce Country Chart: How to Determine License Requirements

Learn how to use the Commerce Country Chart to determine if an export license is required for your ECCN and destination country combination.

Apr 1, 2026 7 min read
Compliance

Building an Export Compliance Program: Best Practices for 2026

Step-by-step guide to building an effective export compliance program. Covers management commitment, screening, training, auditing, and recordkeeping.

Mar 25, 2026 9 min read
Jurisdiction

The 600-Series: Understanding Items Moved from ITAR to EAR

Guide to 600-series ECCNs created by Export Control Reform. Learn how military items transitioned from the USML to the CCL and what controls still apply.

Mar 18, 2026 8 min read
Compliance

Deemed Exports: When Sharing Technology with Foreign Nationals Requires a License

Understand deemed export rules under EAR and ITAR. Learn when sharing technology or technical data with foreign nationals in the U.S. requires an export license.

Mar 11, 2026 7 min read
Screening

OFAC Sanctions Screening: What Every Exporter Must Know

Essential guide to OFAC sanctions compliance for exporters. Learn about the SDN List, Entity List, screening requirements, and penalties for violations.

Mar 4, 2026 8 min read
Licensing

EAR License Exceptions: TMP, STA, GOV and When You Can Use Them

Practical guide to commonly used EAR license exceptions including TMP, STA, GOV, RPL, and BAG. Know when you can skip the license application.

Feb 25, 2026 8 min read
Encryption

Encryption Export Controls: Understanding ECCN 5A002 and 5D002

Complete guide to encryption classification under EAR Category 5 Part 2. Learn about ECCN 5A002, 5D002, mass market exemptions, and ENC license exceptions.

Feb 18, 2026 10 min read
Jurisdiction

ITAR vs. EAR: Which Regulation Controls Your Item?

Learn the key differences between ITAR and EAR, how jurisdictional determination works, and why getting it wrong can result in severe penalties.

Feb 11, 2026 9 min read
ECCN Basics

What Is EAR99? When Your Item Doesn't Need an ECCN

Understand EAR99 classification — what it means, how to determine if your item qualifies, and when an export license is still required for EAR99 items.

Feb 4, 2026 7 min read

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