Resources
Export controls explained
Answers to common questions, a jargon-free glossary of the terms you'll come across, and where to find official guidance.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Each service page also has its own questions and answers — see the services section.
How do I know if my goods need an export licence?
It depends on what the item is, where it's going, who will use it and what for. The starting point is classification — checking the item against the UK Strategic Export Control Lists. If it's listed, a licence is usually needed unless an open general licence applies. Even if it isn't listed, end-use controls and sanctions can still apply. I can work through this with you and give you a clear answer.
What happens in a first conversation?
We have an informal, no-obligation chat about your products, your markets and what's prompting the question. I'll explain what I think is needed, and if you'd like my help, I'll follow up with a clear proposal so you know the scope and cost before any work begins.
Do you work with small businesses?
Yes. Many of the businesses I help don't have a dedicated export compliance team, and need practical support that's proportionate to their size and their exports — not a one-size-fits-all programme designed for a multinational.
We think we may have exported without the right licence. Can you help?
Yes. The important thing is to act promptly. I can help you establish the facts — what was shipped, how it's classified and where it went — and advise on putting things right, including whether to make a voluntary disclosure to HMRC.
How are your fees worked out?
Fees are agreed with you before any work begins. Defined pieces of work, such as classifying a product range or preparing a licence application, can usually be quoted as a fixed fee; ongoing support can be arranged at an agreed rate.
Do you only work with UK businesses?
My focus is UK export controls, so I mainly work with UK-based exporters, manufacturers, distributors and research organisations — wherever their customers are in the world.
Is the information on this website legal advice?
No. The information here is general guidance to help you understand the subject. Export control requirements depend on the specific facts of each case, and the rules change regularly, so please get in touch to discuss your particular situation.
Glossary
Export control terms, in plain English
- ATA Carnet
- An international customs document allowing goods such as samples, professional equipment and exhibition items to be temporarily imported into participating countries without paying duties and taxes.
- Catch-all controls
- End-use controls that can apply to items that aren't on a control list — for example, where there is a risk they will be used in connection with weapons of mass destruction or for military end use in an embargoed destination.
- Classification (rating)
- Identifying whether an item is listed on the control lists and, if so, under which entry — such as a Military List rating or a dual-use entry like 5A002.
- Control list
- The UK Strategic Export Control Lists: the consolidated list of military, dual-use and other controlled items, software and technology.
- Dual-use items
- Goods, software and technology that have civil uses but could also be used for military purposes or weapons of mass destruction.
- ECJU
- The Export Control Joint Unit, part of the Department for Business and Trade, which administers the UK's system of export controls and licensing, working with the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and the Ministry of Defence.
- End-user undertaking (EUU)
- A signed statement from the end user of the goods confirming who they are and how the items will be used. Usually required to support a SIEL application.
- Letter of credit
- A bank's undertaking to pay the exporter, provided that documents complying with the credit's terms are presented. Usually governed by UCP 600.
- Military List
- The part of the UK control lists covering items specially designed or modified for military use, divided into categories ML1 to ML22.
- OGEL
- Open General Export Licence: a pre-published licence that any exporter can use, after registering, provided the goods, destination and conditions all fit.
- OIEL
- Open Individual Export Licence: a licence issued to a specific exporter covering multiple shipments of specified items to specified destinations and, in some cases, consignees.
- SIEL
- Standard Individual Export Licence: a licence issued to a specific exporter for specified quantities of items to a named consignee and end user.
- Technology transfer
- Sending controlled software or technical information abroad by electronic means — including email, file sharing, cloud access and video calls — which can require a licence just like physical goods.
- Trade controls
- Controls on arranging or brokering the movement of certain goods between two overseas countries, even if the goods never pass through the UK.
- UCP 600
- The International Chamber of Commerce's Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits — the rules most letters of credit are issued under.
Official guidance
Useful links
Official sources of information on UK export controls. These links open external websites, which I'm not responsible for.
Not sure where to start?
Whether it's one product or a whole range, a first shipment or an audit next month — a short conversation is usually the quickest way to find out what you need.