Stanford
Global Business Services

Export Controls

During the implementation of a program or project, materials, data, and/or goods may need to be exported outside of the U.S. and into a foreign country. Similarly, there may be a need to export items out of a foreign country in which program or project activities are taking place. It is your responsibility to adhere to the proper regulations and procedures related to the export of materials, data, and/or goods from the U.S. or a foreign location. The information below primarily focuses on exporting from the U.S. However, please be aware that similar laws and requirements exist in foreign countries.

The U.S. Commerce and State departments have established regulations [Export Administration Regulations (EAR), and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), respectively] regarding the export of research-related materials and information from the United States. These regulations may apply to shipping or hand-carrying tangible items overseas, sharing certain information with foreign nationals at Stanford, or interacting with embargoed or sanctioned countries, organizations, and individuals.

Stanford's commitment to openness in research and the University's pledge to comply with all laws and regulations pertaining to export control have led to the development of Stanford's Export Controls Policies. Stanford's Export Controls Policy is contained in the Research Policy Handbook. The Office of the Vice Provost and Dean of Research (DoR) provides oversight and implementation of this policy. The regulations relating to export controls are complex and change often. Stanford personnel are strongly encouraged to review the University's export control guidance. In addition, the University Export Control Officer, Office of the Vice Provost and Dean of Research (DoR) are available to provide further information and to assist with Stanford’s export documentation requirements.

The export of regulated items, information, or software may also require approval from the U.S. Government in the form of an export license. Additionally, it may be necessary to file Electronic Export Information (EEI) as required by the U.S. Department of Commerce (Census Bureau). The filing serves the dual purpose of providing export statistics and export control. The EEI must be filed for shipments from (and between) the U.S., Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands to foreign destinations if any of the following applies:

  • Shipment of merchandise is valued at more than U.S. $2,500 and is sent from the same exporter to the same recipient on the same day (Note: Shipments to Canada from the U.S. are exempt from this requirement)
  • Export Controlled Items, regardless of value, if:
    • Shipment contains merchandise that requires an export license or permit.
    • Merchandise is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
    • Shipment is being sent to Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, or Syria.
    • Shipment contains rough diamonds.

For additional EEI information, please see Electronic Export Information (EEI) / Shipper's Export Declaration (SED).

Stanford has a preferred provider relationship with Tigers, a global logistics company that provides the following services:

  • Export Services: International air, sea, domestic freight, and consulting; and
  • Import Services: Customs Brokerage, import freight, and consulting

What's Next?

  • The regulations relating to export controls are complex and change often. Please review the University's Export Control resource page for detailed guidance on the requirements.
  • Questions concerning foreign export regulations should be directed to Stanford's Export Control Officer, Office of the Vice Provost and Dean of Research (DoR).
  • If exporting from the U.S. into a foreign country, become familiar with the regulations for that country. Further information, including country-specific profiles, is available at FedEx International Resource Center.
  • Consider using a custom’s broker such as Tigers to facilitate the import / export of items.