Export Controls Are No Longer Just for Weapons
Export control laws increasingly affect high-value IT hardware. In 2025, encrypted servers, secure routers, and telecom equipment can trigger export licensing requirements in both the U.S. and the EU. Getting shipments wrong can mean delays, confiscation, fines, or reputational damage. This article explains how ITAR & EAR Compliance impacts Global IT Hardware Shipments, the types of tech goods affected, and how Carra Globe ensures businesses ship safely and compliantly. Discover more about Global IT Hardware Shipments.
What ITAR & EAR Really Cover
Quick Overview of ITAR
The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) govern the export of defence-related items, services, and technical data.
Quick Overview of EAR
The Export Administration Regulations (EAR) cover a much broader range of commercial goods and technologies, including dual-use items with civilian and military applications.
(Bureau of Industry and Security – EAR)
(U.S. State Department – ITAR Overview)
For tech companies, this means encryption, satellite communication gear, and even certain industrial sensors can trigger export licensing requirements. Ignoring these laws or relying on outdated classification codes can result in severe penalties.
IT Hardware That Falls Under Export Controls
Examples of Affected Goods
- Encrypted servers and secure routers with advanced cryptography
- Satellite-linked devices and earth-observation hardware
- Industrial sensors and drones with dual-use applications
- Telecom base stations containing restricted encryption modules
Knowing which of your products is subject to export licensing is the first step to staying compliant.
Common Mistakes Companies Make Under ITAR & EAR
Errors That Cost Time and Money
- Using the wrong ECCN (Export Control Classification Number) or Schedule B code
- Failing to obtain or renew licences before shipment
- Incomplete or inconsistent paperwork that triggers customs holds
- Misdeclaring end users or destinations, which can violate embargoes or sanctions
These errors cost time and money and can expose your company to civil or criminal penalties.
How Carra Globe Acts as Exporter of Record (EOR)
Taking on the Legal Burden
Carra Globe takes on the legal and administrative role of Exporter of Record for your shipments. Our team handles product classification, licensing applications, permit renewal, and all supporting documentation for export-controlled goods. This integrated service reduces the risk of customs disputes, fines, or seized goods.
For a deeper look at how compliance lapses can impact global shipments, read our blog Understanding Compliance Risks in Cross-Border IT Deployments, which breaks down the hidden pitfalls many companies overlook.
Integrated Freight Forwarding & White Glove Delivery
Going Beyond Paperwork
Beyond paperwork, Carra Globe coordinates freight forwarding and white glove delivery. That means:
- Secure transport of sensitive IT hardware with a tracked chain of custody
- Special packaging and handling protocols to prevent damage
- Coordination between licensing authorities and customs brokers to avoid bottlenecks
Delivery all the way to the final installation site rather than just the port
This end-to-end service ensures compliance and protects your assets in transit.
Speak to Our Compliance Team
How Carra Globe Helps You
Carra Globe combines Exporter of Record, global trade compliance, freight forwarding, and white glove delivery under one roof. We classify your products correctly, manage licences, handle customs documentation, and deliver your equipment safely worldwide. Our specialists stay up to date on ITAR and EAR changes so you don’t have to.
Contact Us to get a personalised compliance review and export plan for your next deployment. We’ll assess your products, identify potential licensing requirements, handle permits and paperwork, coordinate freight forwarding, and ensure white glove delivery so your hardware arrives on time and compliant with regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is ITAR, and why does it affect IT hardware shipments?
ITAR stands for International Traffic in Arms Regulations. Although originally designed for defence items, it also covers certain encryption and satellite-linked technologies found in IT hardware. Companies shipping these products abroad may need export licences.
- What is EAR, and how is it different from ITAR?
EAR stands for Export Administration Regulations. It governs a much broader range of “dual-use” goods and technologies. Many commercial servers, routers, and telecom devices with encryption fall under EAR rather than ITAR.
- Which IT hardware products are typically subject to export controls?
Encrypted servers, secure routers, satellite-linked devices, and telecom base stations with restricted modules are common examples. Classification depends on each item’s technical specs.
- What mistakes cause export delays or penalties under ITAR/EAR?
Common errors include misclassifying products, missing licences, incomplete paperwork, or misdeclaring end users/destinations. These can lead to fines or shipment seizure.
- How does Carra Globe help with ITAR & EAR compliance?
Carra Globe acts as Exporter of Record, classifies your products correctly, applies for required licences, manages documentation, and coordinates freight forwarding plus white glove delivery so your IT hardware arrives on time and is compliant with regulations.
