Transporting lithium batteries in devices

A lithium battery is a storage source of energy for electronic equipment, but it is classified as potentially dangerous goods due to the risk of fire or explosion. There are certain rules for transporting and labelling lithium batteries to ensure safety during the transport of such cargo.

What are the dangers of lithium batteries?

It would seem that lithium batteries have been widely used for more than 2 decades, and the technology for manufacturing such an energy source should no longer have any drawbacks. Nevertheless, low-quality or damaged lithium cells do pose a danger due to uncontrolled heating. The fact is that such a battery contains a flammable electrolyte that easily enters into chemical reactions and heats up quickly. Such overheating can result in an explosion or fire.

The world has fairly clear rules and regulations for the transport of dangerous goods and lithium batteries in particular. These rules relate to the packaging and labelling of batteries containing lithium. They also regulate the quantity and weight of such cargo. For example, it is strictly forbidden to transport batteries containing more than 35 kg of lithium by cargo aircraft, and you will have to look for other ways to transport this energy source. And if the battery contains less than 5 kg of lithium and its capacity is up to 100 Wh, such a parcel can be delivered by any type of transport.

Peculiarities of packing lithium batteries

Before packing and transporting this type of cargo, the sender must make sure that the lithium batteries are in good condition and intact. And also take care of the correct packaging and labelling of parcels with lithium batteries.

When transporting serviceable lithium batteries, it is important to prevent damage, heat, and short circuits to the battery terminals. If the battery is transported in the device, it is best to discharge it to 30% and switch off the device. Alternatively, you can place a non-conductive material between the battery terminals and the device.

If the battery is transported separately from the device, it must be transported in its original packaging or the contact group must be reliably insulated. For this purpose, use suitable insulating materials (e.g. adhesive, thick electrical tape).

The battery packaging must protect the battery from external mechanical damage and withstand possible lithium leakage.

How to properly mark parcels with lithium batteries

For such parcels, we use class 9 labels with the appropriate marking sign. You should also indicate the UN number (UN 3481, 3480, 3091) and the exact contacts of the sender and recipient of the shipment.

GlobalPost staff will be happy to advise you on all matters relating to packaging, labelling and documentation for lithium batteries. We will also deliver your shipment to any country in the world in the shortest possible time. Our rates are among the most affordable, so don’t waste time and contact us to send or receive your international parcels.