Shipping Lithium-Ion Batteries Internationally

Sending lithium batteries or devices with them internationally requires special attention to the packaging and markings. They must meet complaint safety regulations and comply with ICAO / IATA guidelines.

Shipping these types of goods presents a risk when not done properly. It is the Shipper’s legal responsibility to ensure that their shipment meets these requirements.

Packaging

Shipping lithium batteries requires special packaging, as these are dangerous goods. This is because, if not packaged properly, they can overheat and catch fire. These fires can be difficult to extinguish and may produce toxic gases.

Fortunately, there are many packaging solutions for different types of lithium-ion battery shipment. However, the one you choose depends on several decisive factors.

First, it’s important to note that the batteries you ship must be in original, undamaged packaging. Waste batteries must also be packed in a separate package from other lithium-ion batteries. In addition, your batteries must be shipped in packaging that complies with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code.

Additionally, you must provide complete documentation with your shipment. This includes a Shipper’s Declaration of Dangerous Goods (DGD) and the appropriate labels for your shipment type. This is important because it allows authorities to understand what your package contains, where it’s from, and where it’s headed. It also ensures that everyone handling your package follows proper safety protocols.

Finally, you must make sure that your packaging is suitable for air transport. This is because air carriers have specific rules and regulations for shipping lithium batteries. This is because lithium-ion batteries are particularly susceptible to overheating. The good news is that if you follow these guidelines, your packages will arrive safely and on time.

Documentation

Lithium batteries are considered dangerous goods, so shipping them requires strict adherence to regulations. This is especially important when shipping them internationally, where a small mistake could lead to a fatal accident. Fortunately, there are several shipping lithium-ion batteries internationally online resources that can help you understand the requirements for shipping lithium batteries. These resources can also provide helpful tips for packaging your lithium battery shipments properly.

If you are planning to ship your lithium batteries by air, it is important to know that there are restrictions on this type of shipment. You will need to follow the guidelines set forth by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Depending on your specific situation, you may need to purchase additional documentation to meet the requirements for shipping lithium batteries. For example, if your batteries are labeled as prototypes, you must include a statement stating that they haven’t been fully tested. Similarly, if your batteries are not packed within equipment, you must adhere to Section II of the Packing Instructions PI 965 and PI 968.

In addition to the requirements above, you will need to ensure that your package meets all other regulations for shipping hazardous materials. This includes affixing shipping lithium-ion batteries internationally the correct labels to your package and following the correct hazmat procedures during handling and transit. In some cases, you will also need to obtain a lithium-ion battery import license. Corpbiz can help you obtain this license and guide you through the process of shipping lithium-ion batteries.

Labels

When shipping lithium batteries, you will need to affix the appropriate labels as outlined by IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations. The labels are used to inform all parties of the type and quantity of the batteries within the package, including those responsible for transporting it. This is critical, as it protects you legally should your shipment suffer damage.

You will also need to make sure that your batteries have passed all the tests laid out in the UNECE Manual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, sub-section 38.3. This includes the Coulomb-counting technique that ensures that they are in a safe state for shipment. This is a key check for those shipping batteries internationally, as a poorly-packaged battery can cause a thermal runaway, which is extremely dangerous.

Depending on the type of batteries you are sending, you will need to adhere to net quantity limits that are established by IATA’s Packaging Instructions. You will also need to include the appropriate CAUTION and Lithium Battery Handling Label. If you are shipping lithium metal or ion batteries without the equipment they power, you will need to include a Class 9 label as well.

To help you navigate the complexities of international shipping regulations, Labelmaster can steer you in the right direction. From product selection and packaging to documentation, training and shipping, our team of regulatory experts can handle it all for you. Contact us today to get started.

Freight Forwarders

Depending on where you’re sending your batteries or devices with batteries, there are different restrictions for air and sea freight. Some shipping companies are able to ship lithium batteries or devices with batteries abroad without issue, while others have strict guidelines in place that you need to follow.

You’ll need to complete documentation and labels before shipping your shipment. In addition, you’ll need to have a hazardous goods certificate from your carrier and provide the proper packaging for the batteries or devices that contain them. If you don’t comply with the guidelines, your package could be rejected by the courier or subjected to fines by customs.

The international regulations for shipping lithium batteries are constantly changing and being updated to keep the shipping process as safe as possible. For example, in 2022, the Section II provisions for standalone batteries were removed from IATA Packing Instructions PI 965 and PI 968 of the 63rd edition of the Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR). The removal of this option means that all packages containing standalone lithium batteries will now be considered Fully Regulated shipments that must be packed and marked according to the DGR’s rules. In order to continue shipping lithium batteries, all shippers will need to complete Dangerous Goods training and recertification every two years. This will ensure that everyone in the supply chain is properly trained and following best practices for shipping lithium batteries by air.