Can lithium batteries be shipped internationally?

Lithium-ion batteries can be shipped internationally. However, shipping lithium ion batteries is not easy. Shipping lithium ion batteries must comply with U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards and Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Administration standards. Failure to comply with these standards will result in a ban on shipment and, in some cases, legal action. These standards are in place to ensure that lithium ion batteries are transported in a manner that is safe for the environment and people.

Lithium ion batteries must be shipped according to the following guidelines Failure to do so may result in fines or legal action against the shipper.

- Lithium ion batteries must not contain more than 1 gram of lithium per cell.

- The lithium content of each lithium ion battery must not exceed 2 grams.

- The package must have a complete and authentic return address.

- The package containing the removed battery must bear the DOT-approved lithium battery mark (UN3090).

Another provision for shipping lithium ion batteries is when shipping to international destinations; lithium ion batteries cannot be shipped separately. They must be installed in the equipment in which they will operate. Packages containing lithium ion batteries that are not installed in equipment will not be permitted.

How do I ship lithium batteries?

Before shipping lithium ion batteries in a device, the following must be noted

The regulations regarding batteries and battery power and quantity change frequently, so you should read the updated version before shipping.

The regulations may differ from those in your home country, so please inquire about the regulations in the recipient country.

If the main unit is damaged, please check to see if the lithium-ion battery inside is also damaged.

Please make sure that the lithium-ion battery is not protruding from the main body.

Also note that defective batteries are considered hazardous materials and cannot be shipped anywhere.

The packaging process for devices containing lithium-ion batteries is critical. It is recommended that you use a professional packaging agent to assist you in this process. When packaging equipment with built-in lithium-ion batteries, the following points should be considered

- It is essential to use sturdy, high-quality packaging materials. Do not use cheap materials.

- Equipment must be packed in such a way that it will not move during transportation.

- Add a return shipping address and emergency contact number to the package.

- Disposal labels for lithium batteries must be affixed to the package in a clear manner and must not be folded.

If equipment containing lithium ion batteries is being shipped by air, it must be marked "Lithium ion batteries in accordance with PI967 Section 2. This phrase must be clearly written in English only. Finally, make sure the package is adequately packed, labeled, and complete with all required documentation.

How do I protect my lithium batteries during transport?

Same as gasoline, sulfuric acid, and other hazardous materials. Lithium ion batteries are considered to be just as dangerous as these commodities. Most lithium-ion batteries can be safely transported and used. The risk is from overheating; if a lithium-ion battery overheats, it can ignite. Lithium is a highly reactive substance, so if one battery ignites, others will follow, eventually leading to an explosion.

Most fire protection systems and fire extinguishers are unable to suppress fires caused by lithium reactions. For this reason, great care is taken in packaging lithium-ion batteries. This prevents the batteries from shorting out or overheating.

You can protect your cargo by following these tips

- Lithium ion batteries should not come in contact with conductive materials.

- The device must be protected from accidental activation.

- Before shipping, contact the shipping carrier to determine which devices can and cannot be activated during shipping.

- Devices at high risk of overheating should be packed in special packing materials that act as coolers for the battery, regardless of the ambient temperature.

- Non-conductive partitions should be placed between devices containing Li-Ion batteries.

- Ensure that the Li-Ion battery is not in contact with other Li-Ion batteries.

- Li-Ion batteries should not be transported near metal surfaces.

- Exposed terminals and connectors should be covered with non-conductive material.

If the capacity of the lithium-ion battery in the shipment exceeds 100Wh, a Dangerous Goods Contract is required.

- When transporting lithium-ion batteries by air, ask about the average temperature in the cargo cabin. Do not ship batteries if there is a risk of overheating according to the lithium ion manual.

- Small lithium-ion batteries are exempt from most safety regulations due to their small size. Therefore, it is important to check before each shipment to ensure that your lithium ion batteries are up-to-date with shipping regulations.

- It is recommended that the capacity of a lithium ion battery be reduced to less than 30% before packaging. If it is more than that, the shipment will be refused.

If the shipment exceeds 5 kg, a Dangerous Goods Contract is also required.

Finally, it is important to remember that lithium-ion batteries are a hazardous material and must be handled with extreme care.