An Introduction to Export Controls and Licensing
Avoid Export Control Breaches, Shipment Holds & Licensing Mistakes — Understand UK Export Controls in One Practical Session
Practical export controls training covering controlled goods, licence types, OGEL compliance and SPIRE/LITE — so you can identify when a licence is needed, apply correctly and reduce compliance risk.
Format: Live, interactive online training via Zoom, with Q&A and practical exercises
Duration: Half day — 9:30am to 12:30pm, or afternoon slot available
£195 + VAT per delegate
Includes course materials and 30 minutes of free Helpdesk time for follow-up questions after the session.
Contact us for group or bespoke training pricing.
- Outcome-led: Leave knowing how to identify controlled goods and select the right licence route
- Risk reduction: Reduce the chance of shipment delays, breaches and reputational damage
- Support available: Training and practical compliance support for ongoing export controls management
Why This Export Controls Course Matters Now
Export controls are one of the highest-risk areas in international trade because mistakes do not usually remain minor admin issues. If a business fails to identify controlled goods, uses the wrong licence or misses a restriction, the consequences can include shipment holds, penalties, damaged customer relationships and serious compliance exposure. This course gives your team a practical understanding of how UK export controls work, when a licence is required and how to manage licensing correctly so you can make better decisions before goods move.
What You Will Learn
- Explain the purpose of export controls and why licences are required
- Identify the UK legislation covering export controls
- Understand the UK Strategic Controls List — military and dual-use lists
- Recognise different licence types
- Understand Open General Export Licences (OGELs)
- Understand individual licences
- Read and interpret an OGEL, and comply with its terms and conditions
- Apply for a licence via the SPIRE and LITE systems
- Be aware of other export controls, including US regulations, trade controls, and sanctions
- Maintain compliance through record-keeping and audit readiness
Need Practical Support?
If you would prefer expert support alongside export controls training, these are the most relevant next steps:
- Export Controls & Licensing — practical support with controlled goods, licensing and ongoing compliance
- Compliance Healthchecks & Audit — review your export control processes, records and internal compliance controls
- Customs Declarations – Export & Import Services — managed customs support when export movements need accurate compliant declarations
Not sure which route is best? Talk to an Export Controls Specialist.
Recommended Next Steps
Other courses to help you on your journey:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Export Controls and Licensing course cover?
This course explains how UK export controls work, when licences are required, how to understand controlled goods lists and how to manage compliance correctly.
Is this course suitable for beginners or experienced export staff?
Yes. It is suitable for staff who are new to export controls as well as experienced teams who want to strengthen their understanding of licensing and compliance responsibilities.
Can this course be delivered privately for our team?
Yes. Contact us for group or bespoke pricing and we’ll recommend the most effective format for your team.
What are export controls in the UK?
Export controls are the legal rules that restrict or regulate the export of certain goods, software, technology and destinations, particularly where military, dual-use or sanctions issues apply.
What is an OGEL and how does it work?
An Open General Export Licence is a licence that allows eligible exports under pre-set terms and conditions, provided the exporter follows the rules and keeps the required records.
How do I know if my goods need an export licence?
You need to assess whether your goods appear on the relevant control lists, whether the destination raises sanctions or trade control concerns, and whether the type of goods creates licensing requirements.
What happens if export controls are handled incorrectly?
Mistakes can lead to shipment delays, licence breaches, penalties, reputational damage and serious compliance problems for the exporter.
Will this course help reduce export compliance risk?
Yes. The course helps businesses identify controlled goods, understand licence routes and manage export controls more confidently and correctly.
“The team at Exporter Services have been working with Silmid for a number of years, supporting our business with export shipping, documentation, freight forwarding, and training. Their attention to detail and expert guidance ensure our export operations run smoothly, and we’re very happy with the service they provide.”
Booking Options
Whether your organisation can book instantly or needs to follow a formal approval route, the process is simple and transparent.
Option 1 — Book & Pay Now
- Secure your place instantly by card payment via our Book Now button
- Receive a confirmation email immediately
- Shortly before the course, we’ll send your handout and Zoom link
Option 2 — Request an Invoice
- Request a quote using the form at the bottom of the page for the number of delegates attending
- Once you confirm, we’ll issue an invoice for immediate payment
- On payment, your place is secured and we’ll send your handout and Zoom link before the session
Download our latest training brochure here.
Ready to get started?
Book now or request a quote using the form below.
£195 + VAT per delegate
Half day (09:30–12:30 or 13:30-16:30)
Live online via Zoom. Includes course materials + 30 mins Helpdesk follow-up.