Overview of the 10 CCL Categories
The Commerce Control List divides controlled items into 10 categories, numbered 0 through 9. Each category represents a distinct technology domain and contains ECCNs for equipment, materials, software, and technology related to that domain. Understanding which category your item falls under is the first step in ECCN classification.
Categories were established by the Wassenaar Arrangement and other multilateral export control regimes, which is why they align with international control lists used by over 40 participating states.
Categories 0 Through 4
Category 0 controls nuclear materials, facilities, and equipment, including nuclear reactors and their components. Category 1 covers special materials and related equipment, including certain chemicals, microorganisms, and toxins. Category 2 addresses materials processing equipment such as machine tools, dimensional inspection machines, and robotics.
Category 3 is one of the broadest categories, encompassing electronics including integrated circuits, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and electronic test instruments. Category 4 covers computers, including digital computers, hybrid computers, and related equipment with processing capabilities above certain thresholds.
Categories 5 Through 9
Category 5 is unique in being split into two parts. Part 1 covers telecommunications equipment including transmission, switching, and network infrastructure. Part 2 covers information security — this is where encryption items are classified and is one of the most frequently relevant categories for technology companies.
Category 6 controls sensors and lasers, including cameras, spectrometers, and laser systems above certain power thresholds. Category 7 covers navigation and avionics equipment. Category 8 addresses marine vessels and underwater equipment. Category 9 covers aerospace propulsion systems, space vehicles, and related equipment.