Lithium Battery Shipping Regulations

For many retailers, keeping up with the constant change in lithium battery shipping regulations has been confusing and time-consuming. As the popularity of lithium batteries continues to increase, regulations have constantly changed. In addition, regulations differ significantly based on the mode of transportation used.

As of January 1, 2022, each manufacturer and subsequent distributor of lithium cells or batteries must conduct and provide a battery test summary proving that the battery meets UN38.3 testing requirements. While a shipment is not required to include a battery test, it must be available upon request. The load can be delayed if not readily available, costing you time and money.

As of April 1, 2022, lithium-ion and metal batteries or cells shipped separately by air must be packaged, labeled, and documented according to stricter standards. As a result, these shipments will no longer be accepted when prepared under Section II of the relevant International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) Packing Instruction.

Until April 1, 2022, lithium cells and batteries shipped alone by air could qualify for some relief from dangerous goods packaging, labeling, and paperwork requirements when prepared according to Section II of IATA DGR Packing Instructions 965 and 968. Since then, the reliefs afforded to Section II shipments are no longer available for cells and batteries shipped alone. However, the less restrictive Section II provisions may still be used to ship smaller lithium-ion and metal batteries and cells packaged in equipment or with equipment.

If you have questions regarding the shipment of lithium batteries, packaging, labeling, or need training for your staff in the updated regulations, APTIM can help!

Contact

Corena Oppel
Project Manager – Permit and Compliance
Corena.Oppel@APTIM.com