ECCn

ECCN, sometimes written ECCn, stands for Export Control Classification Number. It is a five-character alphanumeric code used by the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) to classify items for export control under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). ECCNs determine licensing requirements, license-exemption eligibility, and the level of regulatory control for export, reexport, or transfer to foreign destinations or end users.

An ECCN code has a specific structure: the first character is a numeral (0–9) indicating the broad category of the item; the second character is a letter (A, B, or C) designating the product group within the category; and the final three digits identify the subcategory and item. Examples commonly cited include 5A002 (information security equipment), 5D002 (information security software), and 5E002 (information security technology). The encryption-related items category is often associated with the 5 series, but other categories cover a wide range of technologies.

ECCNs appear on the Commerce Control List (CCL). Exporters or manufacturers classify their items to determine whether a license is required for a given destination, end user, or end use, and to identify applicable license exceptions. If an item is not listed on the CCL, it may be classified as EAR99, which generally requires no license for many destinations but may still be subject to specific restrictions.

Classification can involve internal assessment and, when uncertain, a formal determination from BIS through a commodity classification request (CCATS). ECCNs can be updated or revised as national security and foreign policy priorities evolve.