GLOSSARY
SDN List (Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons)
OFAC's master list of individuals, entities, and vessels with whom US persons are prohibited from transacting.
The SDN List is a sanctions list maintained by the US Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control that names individuals, companies, vessels, and aircraft subject to blocking. US persons may not engage in transactions with anyone on the list, and all assets within US jurisdiction must be frozen.
Why it matters
Before onboarding a new buyer, screen the buyer's legal name, any known aliases, the buyer's bank, and any freight forwarder against the SDN list using OFAC's free search tool at sanctionssearch.ofac.treas.gov. Repeat the check at each shipment: lists update frequently.
Remember the 50% Rule: any entity owned 50% or more by one or more SDN-listed parties is itself blocked, even if it does not appear on the list by name. Document every screening with a timestamp and result.