Shipping Lithium Batteries Internationally
Lithium batteries power our smart devices and the electric vehicles we will all drive someday. But they are considered dangerous goods from a shipping perspective and require specialized packaging, labeling and strict compliance with government regulations and carrier requirements.
Speak with a freight forwarder or carrier who has experience shipping lithium batteries internationally to ensure a smooth, efficient process. They will ensure all documentation is completed correctly and in line with IATA guidelines.
Air Freight
Air freight is an option to consider when shipping lithium batteries internationally. But before you do, understand that this type of cargo is considered dangerous goods and requires specific documentation and packaging. Specifically, it must meet the IATA requirements for transporting Dangerous Goods by Air. It must be fully declared, packed and labeled in accordance with regulations from IATA and the International Civil Aviation Organization.
There are two main types of battery – lithium metal and lithium ion. The former is your everyday non-rechargeable battery that powers wristwatches, smoke detectors and key fobs. The latter is the rechargeable kind found in laptops, portable power tools and EVs. Both have a flammable electrolyte and can overheat or ignite under certain conditions.
The best way to keep from shipping these dangerous goods is to choose a freight forwarder with experience in this area. The right partner will know what documentation is required and how to pack the batteries safely and securely. This is critical, especially as the battery type and quantity will determine what package type is required.
It is also important to ensure that the shipping batteries internationally batteries are properly tested for their ability to withstand vibration and shock during transit. The tests that must be performed will depend on what country the battery is headed to and will require special documentation.
Sea Freight
There are two main types of batteries: lithium metal, which powers wristwatches and smoke detectors, and lithium ion, which is what powers our phones, laptops, portable power tools and even electric vehicles. Both are considered dangerous goods from a shipping perspective and require specialized packaging, labeling and storage, as well as adherence to a long list of carrier and government regulations.
If you don’t comply with the guidelines set out by couriers, airlines and national authorities, it’s easy to end up with a shipment that’s either rejected or mid-declared (meaning your shipment is being sent somewhere other than its intended destination). At worst, a mistake could mean that your business gets blacklisted and won’t be allowed to ship in the future.
For this reason, it’s important to work closely with a freight forwarder or shipping agent that has experience with lithium battery shipments. They can help you research and understand the relevant regulations, as well as ensure that your batteries are packaged correctly to withstand a maritime environment. In addition, they can also assist with sourcing the right insulating China agent shipping materials to prevent short circuits and provide guidance on filling out the necessary customs paperwork accurately.
Road Freight
If you’re shipping batteries or battery powered devices internationally, it’s important to understand the unique regulations that apply. Lithium batteries, for example, are considered dangerous goods (DG) and require specialized packaging, labeling and storage along with compliance to a long list of government and carrier regulations. It’s also important to select a courier that has experience handling lithium batteries and the various rules and regulations involved. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in supply chain delays and even costly fines or liability in the event of an accident.
The specific regulations you’ll need to follow will vary depending on the type of battery and how they’re packed – whether they’re shipped separately or inside their device. For instance, you’ll need to abide by the IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations and ensure that your batteries have a power percentage of less than 30% – any higher and they may not be shipped safely. You’ll also need to present a UN 38.3 certificate to prove that your batteries have passed a series of tests, including height simulation testing, thermal test, impact test and external short circuit test.
Road freight is ideal for those who want to ship their batteries or EV battery packs in as few stops as possible, when the volume of the shipment requires an entire truck or if they need to exclude stopovers in order to meet delivery deadlines. It’s also the best option for those who don’t want to wait months while all of their approvals, documentation and testing are in place.
International Sourcing
The lithium battery market is expanding rapidly – especially for the electric vehicles that will power our future. However, it’s important to understand that lithium batteries are considered dangerous goods (DG) from a shipping perspective and require specialized packaging, labeling and adherence to a long list of carrier requirements and government regulations. Choosing the right 3PL or freight forwarder for your international shipping needs is critical to ensuring that you’re shipping safely and in full compliance.
Lithium cells and batteries are classified as class 9 DG under the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, but packaging requirements differ depending on whether the batteries ship separately or inside their device. Regardless, all batteries must be packed in non-metallic inner packaging that completely encloses the battery cell or battery and prevents contact with electrically conductive materials such as metal. The batteries must also be packaged to prevent shifting during transport that could cause damage or short circuits.
When shipped alone, lithium ion batteries and lithium metal cells or batteries must be packaged in accordance with IATA Packing Instructions 965. If shipped with equipment, they must be packed in accordance with IATA Packing Instructions PI 968. Whether or not they’re packaged with equipment, all lithium batteries and cells must be tested and verified to meet UN38.3 test specifications set by the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria. This includes a height simulation test, thermal shock test, vibration test, impact test, and external short circuit test.