Shipping Lithium Batteries Internationally – Introduction and USPS

It’s pretty normal to ship some items with batteries when shipping personal items and household things. This is because so many devices today use batteries, especially lithium-based cells.

What many don’t know is that there are several restrictions. Whether shipping by air or freight, you need to understand what authorities demand.

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Batteries are naturally hazardous. There are many instances where they have exploded and caused severe damage.

Unfortunately, there is too much misinformation and guidance on the internet regarding any goods that have batteries. You will meet people saying it’s impossible to ship them.

That is not true. Anyone can ship lithium batteries.

In this guide, we will be discussing how to ship lithium batteries – by sea. With such knowledge, you will never have to worry anymore.

Shipping Lithium Batteries Internationally by Sea

As stated above, batteries are considered hazardous. They are grouped in the same class with dangerous goods when shipping. Hence, they come with several restrictions.

Lithium batteries are the most common type. You will find them on most of your devices.

Some people already know the issues they cause when shipping. Hence, they just leave them behind and buy new ones upon arrival in the destination overseas. You can avoid such expenses by safely carrying your batteries and spare batteries safely.

But that may not be as easy as you may have thought. Lithium-ion batteries have flammable characteristics. They can catch fire and explode when exposed to high temperatures. Hence, one must be careful to package properly when traveling with such items.

Modern technologies have significantly reduced the risks. There are safe batteries out there, designed to withstand any condition.

Even so, restrictions are still tighter when shipping them. You don’t want to take the risk of your batteries being confiscated.

Shipping Standard Lithium Batteries by Sea Freight

The method of shipping matters a lot in terms of regulations and restrictions. Sea freight offers the most convenient option.

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If you are sending standard lithium metal batteries – like AA and AAA, you must package them in a hard plastic casing. Leave them on the devices if you don’t want to do that.

It could be best to leave these batteries because the risks are way bigger than the cost. If they stay for too long, they will corrode, especially when placed in a damp and humid condition. That is when they become more dangerous.

Always weigh your options before making the decision. Instead of risking shipping spare batteries, it would be easier to buy new ones when you reach your destination.

Li-ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are the most common batteries in the world. They are rechargeable and offer more power than any other option. And that’s why they are the most preferred choice.

You can send these batteries by sea if they stay on their devices. If not, you must keep them in a hard and sealed case.

One must comply with the regulations set in place by the transport departments. There are specific standards set in place to ensure safe transportation.

Installed Batteries

The easiest way to transport lithium-ion batteries is to leave them in the device. You are allowed to stay with them.

Here are some of the standards set in place:

Installed batteries need to be protected from short circuits. This means installing them properly and keeping your device under optimal temperature.

Every device with a battery must come with protection to avoid being powered on by accident. All devices are switched off during transportation to reduce the chemical reaction.

Each piece of equipment must be cushioned. The sea can be rough sometimes, and hence, it’s crucial to cushion the batteries properly.

General Rules

Lithium batteries are allowed for transportation only if installed in the device they operate. Shipping carriers are advised to accept only batteries that are installed. They don’t need any markings or misinformation.

Shipping spare lithium batteries are more demanding. The batteries must be kept in secure hard plastic bags. You must ensure the terminals are well sealed to avoid accidental contact. Aside from that, it would be best if you kept the batteries with other items.

Shipping Lithium Batteries Internationally USPS

It’s crucial to read and understand the regulations for shipping lithium batteries. First, know that batteries are considered hazardous and must be transported as such.

Standards are set in place to ensure safe shipping. Shippers who don’t comply risk fines.

The USPS shipping regulations align with many other international and domestic regulations. You are in the clear if you follow them.

Here are the standard USPS regulations for shipping installed lithium batteries.

Each cell cannot exceed one gram of lithium. Check at the back of your battery to determine the amount of lithium it contains in every cell.

Each battery should have less than two grams of lithium. There is a need to ensure safety, and smaller amounts of lithium are easier to contain.

Include a return address on every package.

When carrying spare batteries, they must come with USPS approved lithium battery mark.

Ensure installed batteries are protected from short circuits. The risk of explosion is greater where batteries are activated abruptly.

Every device must have protection to ensure they are not switched on accidentally.

Always cushion the device. There is a greater risk of damage when the sea gets rough.

Battery users are always encouraged to read and understand these regulations. The last thing you want is to get in trouble with the authorities for something you could have easily avoided.

Why are Lithium Batteries Not Allowed to be Shipped?

Lithium batteries can be shipped. However, it’s only allowed when they are installed in the device they operate.

Many transport authorities don’t allow shippers to carry packages with lithium batteries across borders unless they are included in the product. They don’t need to have any markings or documentation.

The reason is that lithium batteries are highly flammable. There have been many instances when they exploded, causing serious damage.

Even as the owner, you must compare the cost of buying new batteries to the risk of transporting them. Spare batteries come with stricter regulations because they are more prone to safety issues. The standards for shipping apply to all international destinations.