Imports are any resources, goods, or services that producers in one country sell to buyers in another country. Exports are any resources, intermediate goods, or final goods or services that a buyer in one country purchases from a seller in another country. In most cases you will not need a license to import goods into the U.S. But, for certain goods being imported, some agencies may require a license, permit, or other certification. Most items exported to a foreign buyer will not require an export license. But all items are subject to export control laws and regulations. The best way to find out if an item requires an export license is by checking which agency has jurisdiction over or regulates the item you are trying to export.

In Massachusetts, as in the rest of the United States, imports and exports are subject to federal regulations. While most goods can be imported without a license, certain regulated items may require a license, permit, or certification from specific agencies. Similarly, although many items can be exported without a license, all exports are governed by export control laws and regulations. To determine if an item requires an export license, it is necessary to identify the agency that has jurisdiction over the item. Agencies that commonly regulate imports and exports include the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) under the Department of Commerce for items that have both commercial and military applications, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) for sanctions-related matters, and the U.S. Department of State for defense-related articles. It is important for businesses and individuals to comply with these regulations to avoid penalties. An attorney specializing in international trade law can provide guidance on specific import and export requirements.