The Logistics of Shipping Lithium Batteries Internationally

Lithium batteries power the smart phones and tablets we all use, as well as the electric vehicles we’ll drive someday. They’re considered dangerous goods from a shipping perspective and require specialized packaging, declarations and storage.

Fortunately, there are ways to ship lithium batteries internationally compliantly by air. Here are a few tips.

Air freight

Air freight is the fastest way to get your freight from point A to B. It’s also a good option if you need to ship temperature-sensitive products, like pharmaceuticals or vaccines. Air freight companies can also handle oversized shipments that require special handling and packaging. Air freight is especially beneficial if you have to deliver time-sensitive products to customers, such as electronics, automotive parts, or computer hardware.

Shipping lithium batteries internationally ups is a complex process, and regulations vary widely. Some countries don’t allow lithium battery shipments at all, while others have strict requirements for the packaging and labeling of these items. For example, the US DOT and IATA (International Air Transport Association) require HAZMAT training for employees who prepare lithium-ion batteries for transport.

N1C warehouse staff have completed this training and are certified to ship “fully regulated” dangerous goods. This means that they can prepare lithium batteries for transport by air, rail or vessel. This includes shipping to customers who are in the US or international locations.

UPS recently changed its rules on shipping standalone shipments of lithium ion and lithium metal batteries that aren’t packed with equipment. Now, these shipments must be fully regulated, which requires the use of Class sending batteries overseas 9 labels and UN packaging. They also need to be accompanied by a Shipper’s Declaration. Labelmaster’s DGIS software is approved by UPS to create and print Shipper’s Declarations for these shipments.

Sea freight

Lithium batteries are widely used in consumer electronics, either as stand-alone devices or inbuilt into products. Shipping them requires special services because they are considered dangerous goods. This is because of their flammable nature and the risk of an explosion. The batteries may also cause fires during transportation if handled roughly.

Shipping lithium batteries internationally ups is possible, but it must be done properly. This means that the battery must be packed according to IATA DRG dangerous regulations and a shipping label must be attached. The label must include the net quantity limits, which are listed in a table in the DRG. In addition, the packaging must be robust enough to withstand rough handling and must be protected from metal objects that might short circuit the battery terminals.

It is also necessary to provide a Shipper’s Declaration for your shipment. Labelmaster’s DGIS software is approved by UPS for creating and printing these documents. It is also necessary to have hazmat training for employees who prepare lithium batteries for air, rail and vessel transport.

Ocean freight is generally used to ship raw materials or components from Asia to Europe or North America. This mode of transportation is a cost-effective alternative to air freight, but sending batteries overseas it can take a long time for the goods to arrive at their destination due to the length of travel on the ocean.

Road freight

The logistics of transporting large items internationally requires a coordinated approach. The main modes of transportation include sea, air and road freight. Each one has its advantages and challenges. However, the most important thing is ensuring that your products reach their destination safely and on time.

Lithium batteries are an integral part of many electronic devices, including cell phones, laptop computers and cars. They also power e-bikes, personal care devices and medical equipment. As such, they are considered dangerous goods and must be transported according to strict requirements.

Shipping lithium batteries by themselves is prohibited, unless they are packed with the equipment they power. When shipped separately, they must be labeled with a UN3480 marking. This label indicates that the package contains lithium batteries and must be affixed to each individual package. The packaging should also be marked with a Hazard Class 9 and Cargo Aircraft Only (CAO) mark. In addition, the watt-hours of the lithium ion cells/batteries and their gross weight must be declared in the Shipper’s Declaration and on the air waybill.

In the United States, UPS has a special program for damaged, defective and recalled lithium batteries that are compliantly packaged under U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Special Permits. This program requires pre-approval and a specialized service agreement. However, it can reduce the amount of paperwork required to ship these batteries.

Courier service

As lithium batteries contain highly flammable material, they can be dangerous during transport. For this reason, there are strict rules and regulations that govern the carriage of these batteries on land, sea, and air. These rules and regulations are aimed at ensuring the safety of people, property, and the environment. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in severe penalties. This could include fines and even jail time.

Most courier services don’t allow lithium battery shipments as they are classified as hazardous goods. However, if you’re shipping an item that contains a lithium battery, you can use a specialist carrier to arrange the shipment. However, you should be aware that it’s not cheap as you will need to pay for their expertise.

It’s also important to note that UPS requires a pre-approval for fully regulated Dangerous Goods shipments and for shipping lithium batteries, which means they require special packaging and must be packed according to the IATA dangerous goods manual. Additionally, a UN3480 label must be affixed to your package.

Fortunately, you can still ship lithium-ion batteries by UPS air when they’re packed within the equipment they power. Just make sure to follow the net quantity limit (a table in the IATA dangerous goods manual gives you the precise amount) and affix a UN3480 label. In addition, you’ll need to present a completed UPS Dangerous Goods Contract at your local UPS access point.