Export Control Classification Number (ECCN)

An Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) is a five-digit alphanumeric code used to categorize items for export control purposes. It is assigned by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and identifies items based on their nature (commodities, software, or technology) and technical parameters (https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/licensing/commerce-control-list-classification/export-control-classification-number-eccn).

Key Facts

  1. ECCN is a five-digit alphanumeric code used to categorize items based on their nature, such as commodities, software, or technology, and their technical parameters.
  2. ECCN is used to identify items that are subject to export controls under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) administered by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS).
  3. ECCN helps determine whether a license is required for the export of a particular item.
  4. ECCN is used for export control purposes and is not related to duty and tax rates or statistical reporting requirements.
  5. Finding the correct ECCN classification for a product can be challenging, and there are different methods to classify products, including self-classification, requesting an official classification from BIS, or relying on the product vendor.

Schedule B:

  1. Schedule B is a 10-digit code used to classify goods for export purposes.
  2. Schedule B numbers are used by the Census Bureau to collect data on U.S. exports and determine statistical reporting requirements.
  3. Schedule B codes are a subset of HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) codes, which are used for assessing proper duty and taxes on imported goods.
  4. Exporters typically use Schedule B codes for their products when filing electronic export information (EEI) through the Automated Export System (AES).
  5. Schedule B codes are specific to U.S. exporters and are not used for determining export controls or license requirements.

ECCNs are used to determine whether a license is required for the export of a particular item. They are not related to duty and tax rates or statistical reporting requirements.

Schedule B

Schedule B is a 10-digit code used to classify goods for export purposes. It is assigned by the Census Bureau and is used to collect data on U.S. exports and determine statistical reporting requirements (https://www.shippingsolutions.com/blog/export-codes-eccn-vs-hs-and-hts-classifications).

Schedule B codes are a subset of HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) codes, which are used for assessing proper duty and taxes on imported goods. Exporters typically use Schedule B codes for their products when filing electronic export information (EEI) through the Automated Export System (AES).

Differences between ECCN and Schedule B

ECCNs are used for export control purposes, while Schedule B is used for statistical reporting. ECCNs are assigned by BIS, while Schedule B codes are assigned by the Census Bureau. ECCNs are not related to duty and tax rates, while Schedule B codes are used to determine statistical reporting requirements.

Conclusion

ECCNs and Schedule B are two different classification systems with different purposes. ECCNs are used to determine whether a license is required for the export of a particular item, while Schedule B is used to collect data on U.S. exports and determine statistical reporting requirements.

Sources

FAQs

What is an ECCN?

An ECCN is a five-digit alphanumeric code used to categorize items for export control purposes. It is assigned by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and identifies items based on their nature (commodities, software, or technology) and technical parameters.

What is Schedule B?

Schedule B is a 10-digit code used to classify goods for export purposes. It is assigned by the Census Bureau and is used to collect data on U.S. exports and determine statistical reporting requirements.

What is the difference between an ECCN and a Schedule B?

ECCNs are used for export control purposes, while Schedule B is used for statistical reporting. ECCNs are assigned by BIS, while Schedule B codes are assigned by the Census Bureau. ECCNs are not related to duty and tax rates, while Schedule B codes are used to determine statistical reporting requirements.

How do I find the ECCN for my product?

You can find the ECCN for your product by using the Commerce Control List (CCL), which is a list of all items that are subject to export controls. The CCL is divided into 10 categories, and each category is further subdivided into five product groups. The first character of the ECCN identifies the broader category to which it belongs, and the second character identifies the product group.

How do I find the Schedule B code for my product?

You can find the Schedule B code for your product by using the Schedule B Number Search Tool on the Census Bureau’s website.

Do I need a license to export my product?

Whether or not you need a license to export your product depends on the ECCN for your product and the country to which you are exporting. You can use the Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) Decoder on the BIS website to determine whether your product requires a license.

How do I get an export license?

You can apply for an export license through the BIS website.

What are the penalties for exporting without a license?

The penalties for exporting without a license can be severe, including fines and imprisonment.