The Dangers of Shipping Lithium Batteries Internationally

Lithium batteries are efficient power sources, but they can overheat and ignite during long shipping voyages. This is why international regulations and carrier restrictions are so stringent.

Shippers of dangerous goods are legally responsible for ensuring 100% compliance with IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. This includes completing the Shipper Declaration for Dangerous Goods form and providing UN 38.3 test reports and MSDS documents.

Ocean freight

Many electronic products contain batteries – from smartphones and tablets to electric vehicles we’ll all drive one day. These batteries are considered dangerous goods (DG) from a shipping perspective and require specialized packaging, labeling and storage. They also need to be shipped in accordance with a long list of government regulations and carrier restrictions.

Air and ocean freight shipments of lithium-ion batteries and cells are subject to specific restrictions. The battery’s state of charge (SoC) must not exceed 30% of its rated capacity, and it must be packaged to prevent short circuits during transit. It must also be labelled with the battery’s UN number, proper shipping name, class or division and packing group. In addition, the lithium-metal content must be 0.3g or less per unit.

In order to ship lithium batteries by air, you must provide a completed hazardous materials declaration and comply with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s Dangerous Goods Regulations. The DOT and Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration must also approve the shipment of lithium batteries.

When you’re ready to ship your lithium-ion batteries, make sure you choose a courier service that is experienced with handling these shipments. They should understand the distinctive restrictions that come with shipping lithium batteries and be able to advise you on how best to package your batteries for safe transportation.

Air freight

When shipping lithium batteries or devices containing them, you must comply with strict regulations on packaging and handling. These requirements are imposed to ensure safety during transport and protect the cargo from damage or fires that can occur if they are not handled properly. In addition, you must follow strict guidelines for labeling and marking the batteries or devices.

Lithium-ion batteries are considered Class 9 dangerous goods, which means that they require special handling shipping lithium-ion batteries internationally and careful packing during shipping. They have high energy density and can generate a large amount of heat while operating, which can lead to accidents or fires. This is why you need to be familiar with the regulations on shipping them, especially when using air freight.

One of the most important factors is to choose a freight forwarder that understands and adheres to the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. This includes completing the Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods, which requires the shipper to declare that the shipment complies with all regulations. In addition, it is vital to include a UN 38.3 test report and Material Safety Data Sheets for the batteries or devices.

If you’re planning to ship lithium batteries internationally, consider working with a freight forwarder that has a wide network of carriers and can offer you competitive prices. These companies also handle all the documentation and safety protocols on your behalf, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business. They can also help you find the best sourcing options for your lithium batteries, whether you’re looking to import from China or another country.

Sea freight

Lithium batteries are efficient power sources, but they have inherent risks. They can overheat and ignite, producing fires and explosions, especially during shipping. As such, lithium battery shipments must follow strict packaging and transport regulations. It is important to ensure that all employees involved in preparing the shipment are aware of these hazards and know how to handle them properly. Also, it is crucial to use an insulated material that prevents electrical contact between the terminals of the battery.

When preparing your shipment for shipping internationally, make sure you meet the required standards. These include DOT and PHMSA standards for the proper preparation of lithium batteries or battery cells. Additionally, you must provide the appropriate documentation for each package and container. The documentation should be complete and clearly describe the contents of each package. It should also include a Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD).

The packaging requirements for international air and ocean freight vary according to the battery size, weight restrictions, and lithium metal content. For example, the packaging must be strong enough to withstand drop tests. Drop tests are conducted to determine the packaging’s ability to withstand impact during transit. The results of the test indicate whether the packaging meets UN specifications.

Shipping lithium-ion batteries and EV batteries is challenging because they are classified as dangerous goods, and require specialized packaging and compliance with a long list of government regulations and carrier requirements. Unfortunately, not all 3PLs and freight forwarders have the expertise shipping agent in China to ship these shipments safely and in full compliance. This can lead to supply chain delays and government fines for non-compliance.

Courier services

The dangers of shipping lithium batteries are numerous and can cause a wide range of problems for both the shipment and its recipients. They require a detailed understanding of the regulations and best practices, especially in international shipping, to prevent accidents and incidents during transit. Additionally, they have high energy density, which can generate heat and pose a fire risk in enclosed spaces like containers.

Lithium batteries are considered dangerous goods (DG) from a shipping perspective and require specialized packaging, labeling and storage, along with adherence to a long list of government and carrier restrictions. These requirements extend from first- and last-mile truckers, warehousing storage companies, to container freight stations and air and ocean carriers themselves. This can make shipping them a challenge, and it’s important to work with a freight forwarder that has extensive experience shipping them.

While standalone lithium batteries are prohibited from being shipped as cargo on passenger flights, they can be shipped in bulk via cargo aircraft as long as they’re packed in an approved manner to prevent short circuits. This includes individually packing each battery and placing them in secondary outer packaging that’s designed to prevent short circuits. This type of packing is also required for shipments of EV batteries. For more information, consult the DOT’s Lithium Batteries Guidance for Shippers.