OGEL Checker is a web-based search tool that helps exporters find out whether there are any Open General Export Licences they may be able to use when exporting their goods, software or technology.

What you need before you start

Before using OGEL Checker you must know the Control List Entry reference(s) (also known as Rating reference(s) or Classification(s)) that apply to your goods, software or technology. The specific sub-entry reference must be used i.e. you cannot simply enter 6A005 for a laser, you will need to enter the relevant sub-entry e.g. 6A005d3a for a carbon dioxide laser having a CW output power exceeding 15 kW.

You need to know the end user destination country and also whether any consignee(s) are in an intermediate country.

You will need to check to see if your company has been informed that an end use control applies. You will also need to have made reasonable enquires as to the proposed end use of the items, particularly making enquires if items could be used for WMD purposes or you suspect WMD use.

Making it work

Having logged in you are presented with the "Start Search" screen.

There is pick list for the "Control List Entry", which initially contains the words "Enter Rating". Move the cursor to the box and scroll through all the available ratings, or to speed things up type in the leading characters of your rating or use the scroll bar on the side.

Below this there is a pick list for "End User Destination", which initially says contains the words "Enter Country". Move the cursor to the box and scroll through all the available countries or to speed things up type in the leading letters of the country or use the scroll bar on the side.

Sometime the items will be going to a consignee in a country that is not the same as the end user destination. If this is the case you need to pick the consignee country in the box "Consignee Destination (if different from above)".

Having selected a rating and a country(ies) click on Next and a list of any possibly available OGELs will be displayed. This list can be printed.

If you wish to go through the conditions using OGEL Checker click on "Check Conditions". Read through each condition and answer YES or NO as appropriate. If you cannot satisfy a condition you are given the option to check for other possible OGELs, check to see if your company has an OIEL or failing either apply for a Standard Individual Export Licence (SIEL).

A print out saying that it appears you can use the licence, together with your answers can be made for the record.

You should use the provided link to take you to the official version of the OGEL on the ECO website and confirm that you are indeed able to use it.

Starting a new search

To check out any other rating and / or country combination click on "Start Search" in the left hand panel to take you back to the beginning of the process.