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When importing goods from the United States into the UK, one of the most critical steps is determining whether the goods require a US export licence.
Failing to comply with this regulation can result in serious delays, fines, or outright refusal of export.
At PACK & SEND, we help UK importers and their US suppliers understand and manage export licensing requirements with ease.
An export licence is a legal authorisation issued by the US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) or the US State Department (for military items).
It allows the legal export of specific goods, technologies, or software from the United States to another country, including the United Kingdom.
Licences are typically required for:
Dual-use goods (civilian goods with potential military application)
Military or defence-related items
High-end electronics and computer components
Certain chemicals and aerospace parts
Goods listed under the US Munitions List (USML) or Commerce Control List (CCL)
The exporter of record, usually the US-based seller or manufacturer, is responsible for applying for and securing any required export licences.
However, UK-based importers should proactively confirm that licensing obligations are met, as non-compliant goods may never leave US soil.
At PACK & SEND, we often coordinate with US exporters, acting as the authorised agent, to confirm licensing status and prevent clearance issues.
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There are three key steps to determine licensing requirements:
Classify the item using its Export Control Classification Number (ECCN)
Review the destination country (the UK in this case) and check any applicable restrictions
Assess end-use and end-user, including any risk of diversion, military use, or embargoed parties
The exporter can use tools like the Commerce Country Chart or file a classification request with BIS. For items under ITAR, a licence is always required.
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Even though the licensing requirement falls on the US exporter, UK importers may face:
Extended lead times for sensitive or restricted items
Seizure at port if proper licences aren’t presented at export
Supply chain disruption if vendors are unaware of their obligations
Legal exposure if you’re involved in re-exporting restricted goods
If you’re ordering goods from the USA that might fall under these categories—such as electronics, UAV components, or optical sensors—it is essential to verify licence status before shipment.
International Shipping
As part of our international logistics service, we:
Work with US exporters to ensure any required licences are in place
Help UK customers understand the risk categories of their imported goods
Offer guidance on import control licences, if required by UK authorities
Flag goods that may fall under dual-use regulations or military control
Provide paperwork support to minimise shipment delays
Some categories of goods that commonly require export licences when shipping from the United States to the United Kingdom include:
Aerospace
Items like navigation components, gyroscopes, avionics systems, and flight control software may be subject to export control due to their dual-use or military classification.
Electronics
Advanced components such as high-frequency processors, radar units, semiconductor devices, or encryption-enabled technologies often fall under the US Commerce Control List (CCL).
Chemicals
Industrial solvents, lab-grade precursors, and materials used in manufacturing or research may require a licence—particularly if they can be repurposed for chemical weapons or sensitive applications.
Military
Night-vision equipment, tactical optics, weapon accessories, and any items listed under the US Munitions List (USML) will almost always require a licence from the US Department of State.
No, the responsibility for applying for a US export licence lies with the US-based exporter or manufacturer. However, as the UK recipient (importer), it’s essential to check that the exporter has completed all required documentation. If a licence is required and not filed, your shipment may be blocked before leaving the US.
If an item requiring a licence is exported from the US without proper authorisation, the shipment may be seized, delayed indefinitely, or returned to the sender. In some cases, civil or criminal penalties can be imposed on the exporter. This is why it’s critical to work with experienced shippers like Pack & Send, who help ensure all licensing obligations are met upfront.
Yes. While we don’t issue licences ourselves, we work closely with exporters, freight agents, and compliance teams to identify whether your goods fall under controlled categories. We also assist in coordinating the necessary paperwork and verifying whether the shipment is licence-exempt or requires special clearance.
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