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Order of Classification of Items & Information
What is classification? 

Classification is determining which body of export control regulations an item or information falls under.   This is important because classification determines how an item or information is controlled and any licensing requirements. 

Design intent and any number of features can alter the way in which any item or information is controlled under the federal export control regulations.   Examples of Why Does Correct Classification Matter

Step #1: Is your information/item subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)?

If you can confidently determine that your information/item is on the United States Munitions List (USML), classification is complete.

If you can confidently determine that your information/item is not on the USML , go to Step #2

If you are unsure, STOP – contact the University Export Compliance Officer for assistance.

Items/technical data/software subject to the ITAR are enumerated in the United States Munitions List (USML). The Department of State provides Decision Trees for assistance with classification.

Step #2: Is your information/item (a) related to the direct or indirect of Special Nuclear Materials or (b) nuclear equipment/material?

If you can confidently determine that your information/item is subject to the nuclear regulations, classification is complete.

If you can confidently determine that your information/item is not subject to nuclear regulations , go to Step #3

If you are unsure, STOP – contact the University Export Compliance Officer for assistance.

Items directly and indirectly related to Special Nuclear Materials are controlled by the U.S. Department of Energy, Assistance to Foreign Atomic Energies regulations. Nuclear Equipment and Materials are controlled by the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

Step #3: Is your information/item subject to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR)?

If you can confidently determine that your information/item is on the Commodity Control List (CCL), classification is complete.

If you can confidently determine that your information/item is not on the CCL, go to Step #4

If you are unsure, STOP – contact the University Export Compliance Officer for assistance.

Items/technology/software subject to the EAR are enumerated in the Commodity Control List (CCL). The Department of Commerce provides Decision Trees for assistance with classification.

Step #4: Complete classification

Your information/item is EAR99.

Most consumer grade items are classified as EAR99.