Sending Lithium Batteries Overseas
Sending lithium batteries overseas requires a clear understanding of regulations, packaging standards and shipping procedures. These shipments are classified as dangerous goods and are subject to different guidelines depending on whether they are installed in devices or sent as standalone batteries.
You must complete documentation and provide appropriate labels when sending lithium batteries by air. These labels must include a UN 38.3 test report and a Declaration of Dangerous Goods.
Air freight
Shipping lithium batteries by air requires specialized packaging and documentation. A 3PL or freight forwarder with experience shipping dangerous goods can help you ensure that your shipment meets all required guidelines and regulations. Choosing the wrong provider can cost you time and money as well as delay your supply chain. In addition, a shipper that is inexperienced with shipping lithium batteries could be rejected by airlines.
The requirements for lithium battery international shipping differ depending on the type of battery and its capacity. For example, lithium metal batteries can’t be shipped as standalone items on passenger aircraft but are permitted to be shipped when packed in accordance with IATA packing instructions sending lithium batteries overseas PI 965 and PI 968. The size of the package also matters; it must be less than 35 watt-hours. Additionally, the outer packaging must be protective and meet IATA requirements for overpacks.
Lithium ion batteries are rechargeable and power many of our gadgets, including wristwatches, smoke detectors, and key fobs. They are even used in electric vehicles. However, they can overheat if exposed to physical damage or friction over long shipping voyages. As a result, they’re subject to strict regulations when it comes to transporting them by air, sea, and land.
As a shipper, you’ll need to provide complete documentation and the proper labels when you send your products overseas. These will alert ground handlers and airlines that the package contains a dangerous good and indicate how it should be handled and stored. You can find these documents online from regulatory agencies such as the DOT, IATA, and the IMDG.
Sea freight
The answer to this question is not as simple as “yes” or “no”. Lithium batteries are grouped as dangerous goods and require special handling due to their highly flammable nature. If not packaged properly, they can easily short-circuit and ignite during transit. As a result, they must be shipped by air freight rather than sea or land.
Fortunately, it is possible to ship lithium China shipping agent company batteries as freight, but there are some important guidelines that need to be followed. The first step is to select suitable packaging that meets UN specifications. The packaging must also be able to withstand a drop test and stacking tests. In addition, it must be labelled correctly to indicate the presence of lithium batteries and the type of battery.
Another important factor is to determine the battery’s watt-hour rating, which must be displayed on the label. This number is used to determine the shipping restrictions and is determined by the amount of lithium metal in the battery. This information is typically available from the manufacturer or the battery’s documentation.
As a dangerous good, lithium batteries must be declared and packed according to strict standards. This is why it’s essential to work with a courier company that has experience shipping lithium batteries and other hazardous goods. These companies can help you prepare a shipment that complies with all international regulations, including the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA).
Packaging
When shipping lithium batteries internationally, proper packaging is essential. It should be strong and durable, meeting specific UN specifications. It should also be able to stand up to multiple tests, including stacking and dropping. It should also be able to protect the batteries from external moisture and temperatures. The type of packaging you choose will depend on your shipping method. Air freight and sea freight have different requirements, so you should be sure to check the regulations for each type of shipping.
In addition to the correct packaging, it is important to select a courier service that offers policies for shipping dangerous goods. These services will ensure that your shipment meets all international shipping guidelines and restrictions. This can save you a lot of time and money and ensure that your lithium batteries arrive safely at their destination.
Lithium batteries are considered dangerous goods and can pose a threat to health and safety if they are not handled properly. This is because they are flammable and can cause a fire hazard if overheated. This is why extensive instructions must be followed when relocating to a new country with lithium batteries or devices that contain them. These include documentation, packaging, and labels.