In order to answer this question, you need to use the UK Strategic Export Control Lists, which are a combination of the two main Control Lists, the UK Military and Paramilitary List and the EU Dual-Use List (as well additional lists such as the EU Human Rights List).

The UK Consolidated Lists cover a wide range of items from diverse industries and academic disciplines and is maintained by the ECO. If any items are included on the lists, it does not mean they cannot be exported, but it means those items will require a licence if they are to be exported. Goods or technology which is expressly for use in a military, WMD, or missile system are likely to be listed. Any individual wishing to transfer an item by electronic means or physically to export goods, software or technology specified on the UK Consolidated Lists will require an export licence to do so.

Searches can be carried out either by using the full lists or, alternatively, by registering to use the Goods Checker tool to check for items on the lists. The Goods Checker tool helps to establish if your items are controlled and identify the appropriate control entry ('rating') from the UK Strategic Export Control Lists. If so, you will need to apply for an appropriate export licence. Use this tool in conjunction with the Control List Classification Search Tool available on SPIRE and the OGEL checker.

Here you can find the goods checker user guide with helpful guidance on how to use the goods checker tool. You can look at some Examples Searches which might help you to make the most effective use of the goods checker tool’s search functionality. Training on the use of the Goods Checker tool is offered by the ECO.

If you are required to apply for a licence, you might need to use the OGEL Checker tool too. The OGEL Checker helps to identify if an appropriate Open General Export Licence (OGEL) exists. If so, ensure you can meet all the terms and conditions, before registering via SPIRE. If either no OGELs exist or you cannot meet all conditions, you will need to apply for a Standard Individual Export Licence (SIEL) via SPIRE. Registered OGEL users are subject to ECO Compliance Audits. As an OGEL user you should opt to receive ECO's Notices to Exporters for future licensing updates.

Here you can find the OGEL Checker user guide with useful information on how to use the OGEL Checker tool.

Please, bear in mind that If you are unable to find your goods, software or technology in the lists using Goods Checker, it does not mean that they are not controlled. End-Use controls can also apply to goods that are not listed.

Further guidance is also available on the ECJU website about how to self-rate goods as well as the structure of the UK Consolidated Lists, if in doubt further enquiries can be made to the ECO by e-mail exportcontrol.help@trade.gov.uk or call 020 7215 4594.

Please contact your R&IS Departmental Contact for advice and guidance.