Can lithium ion batteries be shipped in bulk?

Standalone lithium batteries can ship in bulk via cargo aircraft but they must be packed in an approved way to prevent short circuits. That includes individually packaging batteries and placing the batteries in a secondary outer packaging, which is also designed to prevent short circuits. Is it difficult to book shipments of lithium ion batteries?

Can lithium batteries be shipped by air?

Lithium batteries that are attached with the equipment can be shipped by air, but there are restrictions on the quantity of batteries and the type of equipment. Standalone lithium batteries can ship in bulk via cargo aircraft but they must be packed in an approved way to prevent short circuits.

Can You ship lithium batteries overseas?

The short answer is yes, you can ship lithium batteries overseas. Lithium batteries are classed as ‘Dangerous Goods’, which means there are certain limitations on how they can be shipped. A charged lithium battery can, under very particular circumstances, catch fire.

What are the requirements to ship lithium ion batteries?

Some of the guidelines include: Lithium batteries must be UN 3480 or UN 3481 certified. The packaging must meet UN performance criteria. The batteries must be labelled with the UN number and the words "LITHIUM ION BATTERY" or "LITHIUM METAL BATTERY". The shipper must complete a dangerous goods declaration (DGD).

How do I ship a lithium hydride battery?

Choose a strong, double-walled box or container to hold all the contents securely. Seal the outer box with plenty of strong tape, and attach the correct shipping label clearly to the outside. For dry and nickel-metal hydride batteries, this will typically be a standard shipping label.

How are lithium-ion batteries regulated?

As mentioned above, transporting lithium-ion batteries is regulated by UN3480 (for batteries “contained in or packed with the equipment, but not attached to the source”) and UN3481 (“contained in or packed with the equipment, installed/integrated at the source”). There are also IATA regulations for air transport.