How to send Lithium batteries in the post?

Lithium-ion powered batteries were first heard of in the early 1900s. When a scientist named G. W. Lewis started working on them. However, they were not introduced to the masses until the early 1970s. These batteries use lithium metal as an anode as the name suggests. Their main redeeming quality is their high-density charge. They can produce voltages anywhere from 1.5V to almost 3.7V. This high voltage range sets them apart from the other batteries available. They are also known for their long life. But all these qualities come with one small downside of higher cost per unit.

Many applications of modern lithium batteries exist today in the market. They are readily used for the produced ion of energy storage systems and automobiles. lithium batteries are also a common favorite to be used in medical devices. And also portable devices such as PDAs, blood pressure/ diabetes meters and many other portable devices. These batteries are higher in cost than the readily available alkaline batteries. But they provide a much longer life span, which attracts the user.

One of the main advantages of using Lithium batteries is that it can house electrical energy equal to almost three or four alkaline batteries. Yet it is still smaller in size than them and is portable. Giving it an edge over the other batteries.

However, due to their high demand in almost all aspects. The posting of lithium batteries through courier services is a big question.

So let’s tackle the big question in this blog today.

Can you send a lithium battery through the post?

Shipping Lithium batteries is not that big of a deal. You can ship them through most of your local courier services. However, you need to have some basic knowledge and follow a few strict guidelines.

The most common problem that almost everyone has to tackle while sending lithium batteries is because of them being flammable. Sometimes, when the batteries are connected to the device the batteries can heat up. Due to this the batteries can get exceptionally hot and catch flames. They can result in the bursting of the battery. Lithium fires are not easily extinguishable. They are deadly and can burn down the entire place in minutes.

Sometimes you have sent these batteries under unavoidable circumstances. You might have an online electronics business or you might want to send electronics as presents.

The process of shipping lithium batteries is very long and difficult but it certainly isn’t impossible. By being careful and following all the rules and regulations you can post them almost everywhere. Try to plan your shipping with care and attention.

Guidelines for sending Lithium batteries in a post

While shipping Lithium batteries you should follow all the guidelines. Here are some things that you need to keep in mind while posting them.

1.Gather information

It would be useful to note down all the information that the courier service might ask for when you ship the batteries. Few things that you should make notes of are:

• Quantity. It is very important to note down how many batteries you are posting.

• Quality. Carefully inspect each battery to ensure that none of the batteries are damaged.

• Weight. Find out the weight of each object separately and then weight all of them together.

• Power. Check out the power of each battery. That is the watt-hour rating of them. They are usually mentioned outside on the body. Normally phone batteries are 100 Watt-hour.

• Packaging. Decide on whether the batteries will be packed separately or would be packed with the electronic items.

2.Confirm courier rules and regulations

To avoid any end minute surprises. Always ask the carrier clearly what their rules are for posting the batteries. A few common restrictions include:

• How many maximum batteries can be posted at a time? This usually means that one battery connected with the device and two extra or spare batteries. So a total of three batteries can be posted at a time.

• What is the maximum watt-hour that can be transported? Usually, every carrier has a limit of 100 Watt-hour at a time.

• What is the maximum battery weight for shipping? Usually, there are no weight regulations for normal parcels. But some companies might have a maximum weight that can be shipped. Sometimes there is a limit to how many electrical devices can be carried in one package.

• What are the requirements for stating the lithium batteries on the box? Packages with lithium batteries need to be handled with care and that why those boxes need to be declared. This can also be a problem at the customs so it is better to declare the parcels.

However, these are just a few general requirements. Make sure to talk to your carrier so that they can guide you better.

3.Arrange materials for packaging

Arrange all the cushioning and wrapping material in advance. Here are a few things to keep in mind while packing.

• Make sure to arrange enough boxes so that you don’t have to stuff things in one.

• Some carry have the boxed packed in another box policy. So if that is true make sure to have enough spare boxes with you.

• Having bubble wrap in hand is always a good idea. Wrap all the boxes in bubble wraps for additional safety.

Here are a few tips for packing Lithium batteries:

• Wrap all the batteries separately, that means you should pack the batteries and spares separately.

• Each battery should be short circuit protected.

• Make sure all the batteries are switched off.

• Pack all the devices and batteries in sturdy packaging. Like a cardboard box.

• Seal all the boxes with electronic tape.

• Wrap bubble wrap for additional safety.

Safety of sending lithium batteries in the post

Even after all the above-mentioned guidelines, you should still be prepared for anything. There are some precautions that you can take. Make sure that no devices come in contact with conductive materials to avoid short circuits. Also, it is a good measure to protect against surprise activation.