Shipping Lithium Batteries Internationally
Lithium batteries are considered dangerous goods and are therefore subject to strict regulations when it comes to shipping. These regulations set by dangerous goods regulations and courier services must be followed to ensure the safety of your package.
There are also limits on the number of lithium batteries you can ship in a single package. These limitations are determined by the watt-hour and lithium metal content of the battery or cells.
UPS’s commitment to safety
Shipping lithium batteries requires strict compliance with international regulations, as these batteries contain flammable electrolytes that can cause fires and explosions if they are mishandled or improperly packaged. This risk is especially high if the batteries are shipped in large quantities or combined with incompatible materials. As such, it is crucial to follow UPS’s guidelines when packing and transporting these hazardous goods.
To ensure the safety of all stakeholders, UPS maintains a comprehensive safety process that is implemented across all its sites. This includes establishing safety as a core personal value for all employees. The company also utilizes a comprehensive work method analysis to identify hazards and implement controls. This approach has proven to be successful, and the results are reflected in its low total recordable incident rate (TRIR).
UPS’s commitment to safety extends beyond packaging and transporting lithium batteries. The company also works to minimize the environmental impact of its products and operations. For example, it encourages the reuse and recycling of used lithium batteries to reduce the demand for new batteries and to conserve natural resources. It also promotes sustainable practices, such as limiting waste production and energy consumption.
All shipments of lithium batteries must comply with federal and international shipping regulations, including labeling requirements. To ensure the safety of the batteries, they must be packaged in UN-certified packaging that is leak-proof and shipping lithium batteries internationally ups shock-resistant. The packaging should include proper hazard labels, markings and documentation.
Its efforts in reducing its carbon footprint
For companies that ship lithium batteries, compliance with national and international regulations is essential. These regulations define the types of batteries that can be shipped and the packaging requirements for them. They also provide information on handling methods. Moreover, they specify the hazard communication requirements and documentation required for shipment by various transport modes.
Lithium batteries can pose a safety hazard if not properly packaged and handled. These hazards can include flammable hydrogen gas, internal shorts caused by defects and dendrite formation, thermal runaway effects, and oxidation of organic solvents. To mitigate these risks, battery manufacturers must follow stringent standards for packing, hazard communication, and documenting their packages. They must also ensure that their batteries are manufactured under a quality management program.
Shipping lithium batteries by air requires the approval of a transportation carrier and a Dangerous Goods pre-approval from DOT/49 CFR and IATA regulations. N1C warehouse staff are required to complete a comprehensive hazardous materials training course and pass the international freight company US DOT Hazardous Goods exam open in new tabopen in new tab before they can prepare lithium batteries for shipment to UPS or other carriers.
The regulations for shipping lithium batteries by air are very complex. For example, low-production-run and prototype lithium batteries must be approved by the ICAO/IATA competent authority before they can be transported aboard cargo aircraft. They must also comply with the ICAO TI and IATA DGR requirements on cell or battery UN tests, ventilation, short-circuit prevention, reverse current flow prevention, and manufacturer.
Its specialised courier services
When shipping lithium batteries internationally, a freight forwarder with an in-depth understanding of dangerous goods regulations and packaging procedures can save you time and money. By referring to the specific modal regulations and state of origin/destination operator requirements listed for the country you are sending to or from, you can minimize the risk of in-transit accidents and avoid penalties.
As with any DG shipment, there are strict guidelines for the safe transportation of lithium batteries. These include specialized packaging and labeling, adherence to a long list of government regulations, and the use of a reputable courier that is familiar with this type of cargo.
One World Courier specializes in lithium battery and EV battery shipping for businesses around the globe. They can help you to ensure that your shipment is properly packaged, labelled and accompanied by a ‘Shipper Declaration for Dangerous Goods’ form. In addition to ensuring compliance with IATA guidelines, this form also helps to promote safety and facilitate communication.
Shipping batteries on their own can be dangerous and is not cost-effective unless they are being shipped to be installed in the equipment they are designed for. If they are shipped on their own or are not contained in the equipment they are designed for, they are considered dangerous goods and will be charged accordingly. This makes it almost always more economical to ship these batteries in a container, which can carry more than one battery.