Shipping Lithium Batteries Internationally
Lithium batteries are efficient power sources for many electronic devices, but they can be dangerous in-flight or on the ground if not properly packaged. That’s why they’re classified as dangerous goods and require special handling and shipping.
To ship lithium batteries internationally, you’ll need to complete a ‘Shipper Declaration for Dangerous Goods’ form and provide test reports. In addition, you’ll need to use packaging that can protect the batteries during transit and comply with IATA regulations.
Air freight
If you’re shipping lithium batteries internationally, it’s essential that they are properly prepared. This includes proper packaging, completing the necessary paperwork and complying with dangerous goods regulations. You can also hire a freight forwarder to handle this process for you, as they can negotiate better deals and ensure compliance with safety protocols.
You’ll need to complete the Shipper Declaration for Dangerous Goods form, which documents the type of cargo shipping lithium batteries internationally and its associated hazards. This document will determine applicable regulations. In addition, you’ll need to include a UN 38.3 test report and a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). These documents confirm that the lithium batteries have been tested and meet safety standards.
In the United States, regulatory responsibility for lithium batteries is assigned to the Department of Transportation (DOT). The DOT’s primary agency is the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration. Depending on the country, other organizations may also be involved.
Shipping lithium batteries by air is a great option for businesses that need to ship large quantities of batteries or devices containing them. This method is faster than sea freight and can be used to deliver shipments across the globe. However, this method isn’t ideal for small orders and can be expensive. A reliable freight forwarder can help you navigate the complexities of international shipping and ensure your batteries arrive safely.
Sea freight
Shipping lithium batteries by sea offers a cost-effective option for bulk shipments or when speed is not an important factor. However, this method requires careful planning and compliance with shipping regulations to prevent battery damage during transit. A reliable freight forwarder can handle the paperwork and ensure that the batteries meet all shipping standards. They can also help negotiate better deals with suppliers. For best results, choose a freight forwarder who has experience working with Chinese manufacturers and can attend trade fairs to find the best deals.
For air or sea transport, your factory should comply with the guidelines set by regulatory agencies like the International Civil Aviation Organization and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code. The packaging must be adequately insulated to protect the battery from impacts, and it must be clearly labeled with the shipment details, including the UN number and handling instructions. This will help avoid confusion and reduce the risk of accidents.
It is also important to note that your factory must complete a Shipper Declaration for Dangerous Goods form. This document includes your shipper and consignee information, the nature of the lithium batteries and their shipping restrictions. The form must be properly filled out to avoid delays or additional charges. It is also crucial to make sure that the package meets all weight restrictions for both sea and air transport.
Road freight
If you want to ship lithium batteries internationally, there are some specific guidelines that you must follow. For example, you must ensure that the lithium battery label is applied to your package in a durable way and is visible and sized properly. You also need to fill out a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods (DGD) truthfully and include a UN 38.3 test report and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). The MSDS records important information on the physical and chemical properties of the battery.
Lithium batteries are efficient power sources but come with inherent risks. They can overheat and ignite, causing fires or explosions. The danger is heightened during transit, as temperature fluctuations and physical damage can trigger thermal runaway. This is why it’s crucial international shipping solutions to choose a freight company that knows and understands the complex regulations surrounding shipping lithium batteries.
A seasoned freight forwarder, like Airsupply, can help you prepare the necessary documents and comply with national and international regulations for shipping lithium batteries internationally. It can also guide you through the process of customs clearance and commodity inspection, which are required by law. It can also assist with the repackaging of your package, if necessary. This will save you time and money, and ensure that your shipment arrives safely at its destination.
Courier services
If you’re shipping lithium batteries as-is or contained in a product, you need to follow strict safety guidelines when sending them internationally. It’s important to choose a courier service with experience in this area. They will have dedicated staff and vehicles with specialised equipment that can handle dangerous goods and provide faster global reach. If you don’t, your shipment could be rejected by carriers, costing you time and money.
Lithium ion batteries are considered hazardous goods and should only be shipped with a reputable 3PL or freight forwarder with expertise in handling such cargo. Inexperienced providers can mishandle your shipment, potentially causing it to overheat and ignite, which may then trigger fires in adjacent cargo and cause damage to the surrounding environment. This can be very costly, both in terms of lost profits and reputation.
While shipping lithium batteries abroad can seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be. By meticulous packing, adhering to regulations, and choosing a reputable courier service, your devices will make it safely to their destination.
SpeedLink is an experienced 3PL that can handle shipments of lithium batteries, including as-is and packed in products. They have specialized trucks, ADR capability, and the necessary licenses to ship them to all destinations across Europe. They also offer expedited services, bypassing express providers’ hub-and-spoke networks. They can even deliver your shipments to most destinations in less than 24 hours.
