Do I need an export license?

As the exporter, it is your responsibility to know your product and your customer, as these will determine your licensing obligations.

Export License Factors

There are 5 factors that determine your obligations under Section 732.1(3)(b) of the Export Administration Regulations (EAR):

  1. What is it?
  2. Where is it going?
  3. Who will receive it?
  4. What will they do with it?
  5. What else do they do? 

Section 732 of the EAR provides step-by-step guidance on licensing requirements based on your answers to the above questions.

We recommend following the instructions given directly by the EAR, and consulting with your freight forwarder for more personalized assistance with your particular products.

Understanding your Customer

Part of your due diligence as an exporter involves getting to know your customer.

The Bureau of Industry & Security (BIS) provides a “Know Your Customer Guide” that exporters should familiarize themselves with. BIS advises there are certain red flags that should be considered in a transaction.

It is not as simple as handing a shipment over to your forwarder to take care of everything.

Only you know your product best. You must do your due diligence by having a dialogue with your buyer:

  • What is the end-use of the product being shipped?
  • Who is the end-user?
  • What is the ultimate country of destination?
  • Am I meeting all requirements of the EAR?

Export Licensing Resources

For details on obtaining an export license, visit trade.gov.

If you have any questions about whether your shipment requires a license to legally export it, or if you have encountered a red flag, we recommend you contact:

  • Office of Export Enforcement at 1-800-424-2980 or
  • Officer of Exporter Services at 202-482-4532

Section 748.3 of the EAR also provides instructions on classifications requests and advisory opinions.


Please feel free to contact your local C J representative for more details.  

Our blog posts are for informational purposes only. While we use reasonable efforts to furnish accurate information, C J is not liable or responsible for the accuracy or reliability of any information contained herein.

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