Many products that we use and see today are powered by batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries. Due to their high power density, lightweight and rechargeable characteristics, these batteries have become a popular energy source for numerous devices, according to IATA.
They are most commonly found in consumer electronic goods like laptops, tablets and smartphones and with a surge in demand for such products, battery shipments have also increased around the world. Thus, these shipments will have to be properly packed as they can present safety risks.
This article will explain the essential rules you need to bear in mind when packing and shipping lithium-ion batteries internationally.
Why should you bear caution while shipping lithium-ion batteries?
When you are planning to ship lithium-ion batteries across the border, it is important that you comply with the shipping regulations of lithium batteries. The reason is because:
a) Lithium-ion batteries are extremely sensitive to environmental variables
b) They are highly combustible and, if improperly packed, can cause a fire.
c) Chances of short-circuiting are higher.
Hence, it's critical that merchants and their preferred courier providers take the effort to verify that lithium batteries are properly packed, declared, labelled and stored safely during shipping.
How to safely pack the batteries?
Step 1: Use good-quality, strong outer packaging as well as a cushioning material within the container. Learn more with DHL packaging guide here .
Step2: Pack the batteries securely to avoid movement and incidental operation while in transit. Fill up the void in the container and make sure that the batteries are placed securely in the centre of the box.
Step 3: Attach a lithium-ion battery handling sticker to the outer wall of the container and provide a contact number in case of an emergency.
Safety tips to ship the batteries
- Use insulating, non-conductive materials to cover batteries and avoid short-circuiting.
- Avoid turning on gadgets with installed batteries while they are being shipped.
- To safeguard the connectors, store each battery in fully enclosed interior packaging.
- Avoid storing batteries in extreme heat.
- Cushion the batteries in the packaging to prevent movement and accidental operations during air transport.
- Batteries should be kept away from metallic materials that could produce a short circuit.
- Make sure the batteries aren't faulty or in a wrong placement in the gadget.
- Tag the shipment clearly to indicate that it contains lithium batteries.
Why should you choose DHL Express as your logistics service provider to ship lithium-ion batteries?
Lithium-ion batteries are classified as dangerous goods and therefore, all regulatory criteria outlined in the Lithium Battery Shipping Regulations must be strictly followed. Regulations are applicable if you are:
a) Shipping them as individual items, for example, portable battery charger.
b) Shipping the device and batteries in the same package, for example, a camera with an extra battery.
c) If the battery is installed within the equipment, for example, a laptop with an integrated lithium battery.
When you choose DHL Express, you are entrusting your shipments to a team of certified international specialists who have the knowledge, proficiency and resources to handle them safely. But bear in mind that we do not accept all types of lithium-ion batteries. Some battery types require additional information and documents in order to ship. For example, if you are shipping lithium batteries from Singapore to Taiwan, you’ll have to indicate the battery’s model number and specifications on your invoice based on the BSMI regulations. In addition, the sender must be a pre-approved DHL Express account holder. Learn more about DHL’s Dangerous Goods (DG) shipping rules.
Our highly trained professionals are aware of the ramifications of not adhering to safety rules, and hence ensure that these shipments comply with all international, regional and national regulations. In addition, we also evaluate the security and integrity of each shipment's packing before customs clearance to reduce the risk of damage during air transportation.
So, rest assured that your shipments will meet all regulations and arrive safely if you follow these rules. Our team of professionals strives to provide seamless express service so that you and your customers can sit back and relax while the shipment is in transit.
