International Shipping
International shipments are subject to a range of U.S. regulations, including sanctions and export control. Research Security and Export Controls (RSEC) oversees compliance with these regulations for all university-related exports (permanent and temporary), in coordination with other administrative units.
How RSEC can Help
While RSEC is not the shipping office, which is located within Services Enterprises, RSEC helps ensure shipments are in compliance with sanctions and export control regulations by assisting in the following:
- Commodity jurisdiction and classifications
- Identification of restricted parties
- Export license preparation and submission
- International shipping documentation
What to Do Before you Ship
- If you are shipping Purdue owned material and/or equipment, it is good to have a material transfer agreement (MTA) in place. MTAs provide terms that address intellectual property and regulatory compliance and are a good tool to assist both parties. Contact SPS Contracting or visit their MTA page for more information on MTA processing.
- If you are shipping equipment, software, biological agents, or technology internationally, contact RSEC to assist you in the classification of the item.
- If you are shipping NIH-funded U.S. Person human biospecimens to a Foreign Adversary Nation, contact RSEC immediately. NIH has implemented new rules prohibiting this in most cases. RSEC can assist in determining whether specific scenarios qualify for as an exemption.
- Some biological materials/DEA agents require permits to move, and their permit will be checked prior to shipping. These may include: APHIS, USDA, CDC, DEA, DOT, and FDA. Contact the EHS office with questions about this step. Environmental Health & Safety 765-494-6371. Read more information about their Hazardous Materials Shipping Program here.
- As the exporter, we must know the intended end use of the item being exported. Confirm that the end use of the item you are shipping is not prohibited by reviewing Part 744 of the EAR. If you suspect that the recipient intends to use the item in a manner that is prohibited, contact RSEC immediately.
Expectations
- Purdue’s eShipGlobal system must be used for all outbound export shipments and shipments involving regulated or hazardous materials.
- The Materials Management and Distribution Center (MMDC) assists with campus logistics and shipment execution.
- Travelers and departments are expected to plan ahead to avoid compliance delays, penalties, or unexpected costs.
Temporary Exports for Demonstration
Items sent abroad for demonstration, exhibition, or evaluation—even if not sold or modified—require an export review. In many cases, Purdue may obtain an ATA Carnet to avoid duties and taxes for temporary imports.
Repairs and Service Abroad
When sending equipment abroad for repair or service, Purdue remains the exporter for the outbound shipment and the importer for the return. The foreign recipient must act as both the importer into their country and the exporter for the return. These roles affect licensing, valuation, and liability for duties.
Roles and Responsibilities
| Party | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| RSEC | Ensures compliance with U.S. export control and sanctions regulations |
| MMDC | Supports logistics and shipment processing |
| Traveler / Department | Initiates review, supplies item details, and ensures timely coordination |
| Foreign Entity | Responsible for import compliance in their country |
Questions or Additional Information
For questions related to international shipments, export compliance, or cross-border transfers of physical items, please check out the FAQs on this topic or contact the following offices:
- RSEC – for guidance on export control regulations, sanctions compliance, license requirements, and international hand-carry or shipment review
- The Materials Management and Distribution Center (MMDC) – for assistance with logistics, eShipGlobal, carrier coordination, and campus shipping procedures
- Animal Resources (email) as well as Environmental Health and Safety (including Biosafety), may also play a role in successful exports
Early coordination with these offices helps ensure compliance with applicable regulations and smooth handling of your shipment.
Contact Us
Email: rsec@purdue.edu
Phone: (765) 494-1642