International Shipping

Export control regulations governs whether an item may be shipped out of the United States, and all international shipments from MIT must be approved by MIT Export Control.  Use the eShipGlobal system to initiate international shipments, as it facilitates this review in accordance with MIT's shipping policy. You must first complete introductory training.

Export control is only one aspect of shipping. Consult other offices for more information on shipping from MIT, especially if you are shipping research materials.

Identify the correct export classification

An item’s export control classification number (ECCN) is the most important information needed when assessing the legality of an export. Other factors include the recipient (person AND institution), country, end use of the item, whether it is a temporary or permanent export, if there is any indication of a third-party transfer, value, and amount of material.

To find an item’s ECCN, consult the vendor or review MIT export control classification guidance. If your item falls under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), it will not have an ECCN, and it cannot be exported without a license from the Department of State. 

Finding an item’s ECCN may take time. Start the process early and contact MIT Export Control to avoid delays.  

Submit shipment information to MIT Export Control

All international shipments must be initiated using the eShipGlobal system, with few exceptions (see guidelines). The system automatically routes the request to MIT Export Control for review.

If you are not using eShipGlobal, (e.g., because you are shipping a package over 150 lbs), contact MIT Export Control with the needed information:

• Export control classification number (ECCN)
• Item recipient (institution, company or organization, as well as person)
• Destination country
• End use of item
• Approximate cost or value

Not providing the ECCN will delay your shipment.

Ship material directly to the destination

Shipping with intermediate stops is considered an export to those countries.

Other shipping inquiries

All international shipments from MIT must be approved by MIT Export Control, but there are many aspects of shipping that MIT Export Control does not advise on. 

Other MIT resources can assist with correctly labeling packages, precautions around shipping biological or hazardous materials, and insurance: