A Guide To Shipping Lithium Batteries From China

Along with the energy sector development and growth, lithium batteries has been deeply into people’s lives. Cars, mobile phones, laptop computers and other tools are inseparable from the lithium batteries support. Due to its features of the sensitive goods, IATA IMO organizations continue to strengthen rules of battery and packaging requirements during transport.

3 Common Modes for Lithium Batteries Transportation

There are three methods of shipping lithium battery including ocean freight, air freight and courier service.

Air courier

A fast shipping mode for urgent cargo, as well it is easier to handle than sea freight. We can choose door-to-door courier service, such DHL, FedEx, UPS, TNT, and air freight consolidation service for lithium battery.

Air freight

Working with airlines EK, TK, EY, ET, UPS, SQ, AZ, CX, BR, CI, FJ, BA, AF, KQ and others, we can arrange the services of taking off or transferring in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangzhou and other, depending on airline and feature of cargo.

Transportation of battery prefers Hong Kong air services, because of its easy inspection, frequent flight and fast trade declaration in there when import batteries from China.

Ocean Freight

The FCL is one of main shipping method for lead-acid batteries, car batteries and lithium batteries and other large one. What is worth mentioning, not all shipping companies want to accept such battery name, different shipping companies on the file and audit documents are inconsistent.

We will make the most appropriate way to import it for you basing on the type, size, weight of the shipment. While the container transport is suitable for all types of batteries imports.

Types of Lithium Battery

Lithium metal battery – Anode is lithium metal or lithium mixture.

Li-ion battery – With Lithium compound used as the anode, it is reusable and the most common type of lithium battery used in consumer applications.

With batteries widely used in industry of consumer electronics, many accidents have taken place during transportation. Therefore, IATA IMO Organization continues to strengthen the battery about the aviation and maritime transport and packaging requirements.

There are square lithium (phone and tablet batteries) and cylindrical battery (18650 batteries, used in vape) basing on its shape.

Because lithium has the characteristics of easily from chemical reaction, unstable state, and is combustible, if handling roughly during transportation, it may lead to accident like burning.

And bad packaging and nonstandard handling during transport has became an increasingly hot topic, many international organizations have published regulations and requirements.

Basic Requirement of Packaging Transportation

Lithium battery must be packed properly according DRG dangerous regulations, and display UN number on the packaging.

Proper packaging and labeling dangerous goods.

Dangerous Goods Declaration

Requirements Of Air Freight and Sea Freight

1.Battery shipment must pass UN test and package drop test from the height of 1.2 m.

2.Dangerous goods declaration

3.Attach a tag of dangerous goods on packaging.

4.Lithium batteries design can prevent cracking and there are effective measures against outer shorter-circuits.

5.The packaging is strong enough to stand shock and rough handling and other inner packaging materials is to avoid short circuits among batteries of the same packaging.
(Use what king material of packaging view this post Proper Packaging Materials).

6.Additional requirements for electronic product with inner battery.

a. Keep battery fixed inside in box, not capable of being moving, and not allow being activated during the transportation.
b. Packed in waterproof material or using waterproof interior lining.

7.Large amount battery cargo should be placed in the tray, which is helpful for mechanical handling.

8.One single parcel should weight less than 35 kg.

The Risks of Batteries Transportation

Natures

Lithium is a kind of flammable metal, its temperature reaches 600 to 800 Celsius when burned. It is difficult to deal with the accident if there is a fire.
*We must be aware enough of this situation and take special security measures.

Packaging and reinforce

Bad packing which is not adequately reinforced may lead to the damages or being stopped by customs at port of destination.
*Pro China Freight offers professional consolidation service for shipment.

Inspection
*Packaging would be striped in customs and carriers inspection, which may result in the loss.

Classification and types of lithium batteries:

 

Lithium metal battery: A primary battery that generally uses lithium metal or lithium mixture as the anode.

 

Lithium-ion battery: Lithium-ion batteries (abbreviated as Li-ion Batteries) lithium compounds are used as the positive electrode, the carbon material that can insert and deintercalation lithium ions replaces pure lithium as the negative electrode, and the mixed electrolyte is used as the electrolyte. It is a reusable battery, generally used in the consumer electronics industry.

 

Batteries produced by different lithium-ion battery materials can be divided into polymer batteries, square batteries, cylindrical batteries (usually 18650 batteries).

 

Distinguish：

The technical definitions of batteries and battery cells mentioned in the UN Testing and Standards Manual are as follows:

 

A “battery” is two or more battery cells connected together by a circuit, and is equipped with the necessary devices for use, such as: housing, electrode terminals, markings and protection devices.

 

Single-cell batteries are considered to be “battery cells” (dispose of them as battery cells during the UN38.3 test). “Battery core” is a single, enclosed electrochemical device composed of a positive electrode and a negative electrode with a potential difference between the two electrodes. Regardless of these rules and UN test standards and manuals, this kind of electrochemical unit is called “battery” or “single-cell battery”. In our rules and UN test standards and manuals, they are called “battery cells” Not the battery. In DGR, single-cell batteries should be regarded as battery cells instead of batteries.

 

Generally speaking, button batteries, etc., directly use the most lithium batteries;

 

Lithium batteries in notebook computers and power tools are composed of several (3~9) batteries in series and parallel; power lithium battery packs are composed of dozens to hundreds of batteries in series and parallel, and are protected Line device to provide power for it;

 

For mobile phones, MP3 basically uses a single lithium-ion battery cell or a single lithium polymer battery cell, plus a protective circuit device to form a battery.

 

 

 

Measurement standards for lithium batteries:

 

The new lithium battery measurement standard is rated watt-hour (Wh), if the nominal voltage (V) and nominal capacity (Ah) of the battery are known, the value of the rated watt-hour can be calculated: Wh = V x Ah Ampere Multiplied by the nominal voltage equals the watt-hour nominal voltage and the nominal capacity, and this indicator is required to be marked on the battery.

 

Transport requirements for lithium batteries: packaging, labeling

 

Lithium battery transport packaging

 

1. Without considering exceptions, these batteries must be transported in compliance with the restrictions in the rules (packaging instructions applicable to DGR 4.2). They must be packed in the UN specification packaging specified in the DGR Dangerous Goods Regulations in accordance with the applicable packaging instructions, and the corresponding numbers must be displayed on the packaging.
2. The packaging that meets the requirements, except for the mark with the applicable correct shipping name and UN number,

 

 

A Class 9 hazard label must also be affixed.

 

3. The shipper must fill in the dangerous goods declaration form; provide the corresponding dangerous package certificate;

 

Provide a transportation appraisal report issued by a certified third organization and show that it is a standard product (including UN38.3 test, 1.2m drop packaging test).

 

 

Shipping lithium batteries from China: Regulations for air transportation of lithium batteries:

 

1. The battery must pass the UN 38.3 test requirements and the 1.2m drop packaging test

 

2. The dangerous goods declaration document provided by the shipper, marked with the UN number

 

3. The outer packaging must be affixed with the label of Class 9 dangerous goods, and the operation label of “only for all-cargo aircraft transportation”

 

4. The design should ensure that it prevents bursting under normal transportation conditions and is equipped with effective measures to prevent external short circuits when shipping the battery by air.

 

5. The strong outer packaging, the battery should be protected to prevent short circuits, in the same packaging should prevent contact with conductive materials that can cause a short circuit.

 

6. Additional requirements for battery installation and transportation in equipment:

 

The equipment should be fixed to prevent the battery from moving in the packaging, and the packaging method should prevent the battery from accidentally starting during transportation.

 

The outer packaging should be waterproof, or by using an inner lining (such as a plastic bag) to achieve waterproofness, unless the structural characteristics of the device itself already have waterproof characteristics.

 

7. Lithium batteries should be loaded on pallets to avoid strong vibration during handling. Use corner protectors to protect the vertical and horizontal sides of the pallet when shipping battery by air freight.

 

8. The weight of a single package is less than 35 kgs.

 

9. Airline operation attention:

l Only for freighter transportation

l Lithium battery air freight information appears on the captain’s notice

l Enhance crew awareness and decision-making in emergency situations may change accordingly

l Inform the first attendee of the class and quantity of batteries in the cargo hold

l The US FAA requires that lithium batteries should be loaded in the cargo compartment of the aircraft with a class C cargo compartment. The cargo compartment must have a smoke detection system, an alarm system, and a fire extinguishing system.

 

 

 

Shipping lithium batteries from China: Regulations for the ocean transportation of lithium batteries:

 

1. The battery must pass the UN 38.3 test requirements and the 1.2-meter drop packaging test.
2. The outer packaging must be affixed with a Class9 dangerous goods label, marked with UN number

 

3. Its design can ensure the prevention of bursting under normal transportation conditions and is equipped with effective measures to prevent external short circuits when shipping batteries from China by sea freight.

 

4. Strong outer packaging, the battery should be protected to prevent short circuits, and in the same packaging, it should be prevented from contact with conductive materials that can cause a short circuit.

 

5. Additional requirements for battery installation and transportation in equipment:
6. The equipment should be fixed to prevent it from moving in the packaging, and the packaging method should prevent accidental activation during transportation.

 

The outer packaging should be waterproof, or by using an inner lining (such as a plastic bag) to achieve waterproofness, unless the structural features of the device itself already have waterproof characteristics.

 

Lithium batteries should be loaded on pallets to avoid strong vibration during handling. Use corner guards to protect the vertical and horizontal sides of the pallet.

 

7. Lithium batteries must be reinforced in the container, and the reinforcement method and strength should meet the requirements of the importing country (such as: American Association of Railways <ARR>, American Dangerous Goods Association, North American Explosives Administration <BOE>, Federal Motors The Transportation Security Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Department of Transportation and the “Maritime Dangerous Goods Regulations” have relevant regulations). If the consignor neglects to reinforce or improperly reinforce, the container will be detained at the port of destination, and terminal operations will occur. Expenses such as high costs, storage costs, relocation costs, and re-reinforcement.

 

8. Lithium batteries exported from China to North America must be labeled with Class9 Dangerous Goods at the specified locations around the container

 

 

Lithium batteries shipped from China, LCL export steps, customs declaration steps:

 

For the operation of exporting lithium batteries by sea freight, the lithium battery supplier takes UN3480/UN3481 as an example before shipment, and needs to go to the local Commodity Inspection Bureau to file the conformity of the external packaging container, and then present the performance sheet and the hazardous characteristics classification identification report (IMI report), Apply to the local Commodity Inspection Bureau for the Dangerous Package Certificate, that is, “The People’s Republic of China Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine and Outbound Dangerous Goods Transport Packaging Use Appraisal Result Sheet”. If importers have any questions about this packaging use verification result sheet, please contact Bestforworld for more information. More.

 

After the above documents are prepared, the lithium battery supplier and the forwarding agent’s power of attorney are prepared to initiate a booking entrustment to the freight forwarding company, and the forwarding agent makes a booking application to the shipping company, as follows:

 

1.1 Lithium battery MSDS issued by the manufacturer (preferably in both Chinese and English)

1.2 Lithium battery dangerous package certificate (including packaging technical manual);

1.3 Appraisal of cargo transportation conditions (provided according to the needs of the shipping company, individual ocean shipping companies will require it at the beginning of booking;)

1.4 Cargo Shipment Power of Attorney (consignee, consignor information, emergency contact information, destination port/departure port, box type, cargo name, gross weight, number of pieces, size/volume, and special instructions for operation and other information, etc.

 

 

Lithium batteries are exported from China. If it is an ocean-going route, the application for lithium battery space reservation is routinely made at least 10 working days in advance. It will be extended appropriately when major holidays come (such as Muslim fast day, Christmas in Western countries, Chinese New Year ). On National Day, it is necessary to submit a booking application to the shipping company 15 working days in advance to maximize the timely supply of DG cargo space. Because lithium batteries belong to the ninth category of dangerous goods, many shipping companies ship from China to many routes. Do not accept bookings for this product, because it is very important to find a professional LCL forwarder for lithium batteries in China);

 

Compared with the operating conditions of ocean routes, near-ocean routes are much more convenient, and you can usually submit booking applications 7 working days in advance. (If there is FREE DETENTION & FREE DEMURRAGE in the destination port, you need to inform the booking agent or the corresponding forwarding company before booking; some routes require to apply after the ship opens; the application conditions need to be confirmed with the shipping company in advance to avoid passive situations .)

 

1.5 Currently Bestforworld is the only four Chinese freight forwarding company that has legal lithium battery LCL in Shanghai Port. In order to ensure the safe shipment of LCL lithium batteries, when your cargo is less than one container, contact Bestforworld to obtain a first-hand lithium battery LCL shipping quotation when importing battery from China.

 

Lithium batteries shipped from China, FCL export steps, customs declaration steps:

 

Procedures for exporting FCL lithium batteries by sea freight:

1.1 After the shipping company’s approval is completed, the fleet will be pre-allocated to the corresponding shipping company’s container yard to pick up empty containers.

 

1.2 At the same time, the battery factory arranges delivery to CFS three days before the ship sails for dangerous goods. (If it is factory loading, it is necessary to make an appointment in advance to make the loading, so that the operation can be completed without affecting the opening and declaration of the port.)

 

1.3 The consignor needs to prepare the declaration and inspection power of attorney, packing list, invoice, contract, packaging compound declaration, MSDS stamp version, declaration elements, and other documents and submit them to the corresponding customs broker or dangerous goods forwarding operator in time.

 

1.4 After the cargo enters the dangerous goods warehouse, it is packed. The precautions for loading or the reinforcement requirements (American-style reinforcement & European-style reinforcement & pallet packaging requirements, etc.) and labeling and marking requirements should be notified in advance. From the perspective of safe transportation of goods, Conventional lithium batteries are not allowed to be stacked during transportation and loading.

 

1.5 Before the goods are loaded into the container, according to the conventional industry practice, take pictures of the outside of the box, take pictures of the front door, take pictures of the half-open door, take pictures when the goods are loaded halfway, take pictures after the packing is completed, take pictures after the door is closed, take pictures after the door is closed, etc. .

 

1.6 After the declaration to the Customs and Maritime Safety Administration is completed, it will be packed into the port, and the operation will be completed and checked with the shipper’s bill of lading confirmation, and submitted to the electronic system after confirmation. (Precautions required for bills of lading need to be notified in advance. Modifying the order afterwards will be a more complicated process and will also incur unnecessary costs such as corresponding amendment fees and courier fees.)

 

1.7 The original bill of lading is normally issued by 3~5 working days for ocean routes, and 3 working days for offshore routes, depending on the actual billing time of the corresponding shipping company.

 

Lithium batteries for automobile land transportation are exported to Europe and railway transportation lithium batteries. Please contact Bestforworld Case by case check to get the best lithium battery gasoline vehicle transportation and railway freight solutions and quotations.

 

Lithium batteries are shipped from China, and lithium batteries are shipped by air export steps:

 

There is almost no detailed content on the air transportation of lithium batteries on Google. Many articles are patchwork and not professional enough. After reading the articles, people still can’t grasp the core elements, misleading many customers who import lithium batteries from China. With the recent social turmoil in Hong Kong, the uncertainty of real-time sailing at Hong Kong air cargo ports has also increased, which has caused problems for customers in the Chinese mainland exporting lithium battery trade, and some customers who once relied on Hong Kong ports to export lithium batteries. It has begun to transfer to domestic air freight ports with mature operating conditions. Lithium batteries are exported by air freight through the formal provision of export documents.

 

Hong Kong’s air transport of lithium battery export operating conditions is relatively not strict, basically, only MSDS and 38.3 test reports are required. However, one phenomenon is that the quality of lithium batteries exported from Hong Kong is very complicated. There are more goods declared as general goods not in accordance with the strict regulations with hazardous chemicals. That is, many non-compliant lithium battery suppliers export lithium batteries by air freight through Hong Kong, but Falsifying the name of the customs declaration, not mentioning the lithium battery, and using other general cargo names for customs declaration, concealing the attributes of the dangerous goods of the lithium battery, has caused a huge safety hazard to air transport. It is also the root cause of frequent fires in Hong Kong Airport.

 

As the most experienced Chinese freight forwarding company in China’s dangerous goods logistics, Bestforworld has rich experience in air transportation of dangerous goods exports. The following introduces more valuable experience and inside information about the air transportation of lithium batteries:

 

 

Lithium is a metal that is particularly prone to chemical reactions, easy to extend and burn, and its characteristics are as follows:

1. Contact with water or humid air will release flammable gas;

 

2. In a solid state, when the temperature exceeds its melting point 180 degrees, it can burn by itself;

 

3. When it is a powder, it can burn under ambient temperature conditions, which can cause severe burns and corrosion.

 

Therefore, if the packaging and transportation of lithium batteries are not handled properly, they are flammable and explosive, and accidents occur from time to time.

 

In 2017, Samsung also announced the investigation results of the Note7 battery explosion. The problem still lies in the battery. Because the batteries provided by SDI and ATL respectively cause spontaneous combustion for different reasons, it will happen after Samsung recalls the mobile phone and replaces the battery. , But still unable to solve the explosion problem.

 

Earlier, Tesla cars frequently spontaneously ignite after collisions. There were many lithium battery fire accidents during the initial operation of the Boeing 787 passenger plane, and BYD electric taxis caught fire after being rear-ended. There are many accidents. The damage caused was also extremely heavy.

 

Lithium batteries can be roughly divided into two types: lithium metal batteries (including lithium alloy batteries) and lithium-ion batteries (including lithium-ion polymer batteries). Lithium metal batteries are usually non-rechargeable and contain metallic lithium; lithium-ion batteries do not contain metallic lithium and are rechargeable. ; Lithium polymer battery (LITHIUM POLYMER BATTERY) is a kind of lithium-ion battery.

 

Generally speaking, the main difference is that lithium-ion polymer batteries contain some kind of polymer electrolyte. The measurement standard for lithium-ion batteries is the rated watt-hour (Wh) for lithium-ion batteries produced after January 1, 2009. It is a measurement standard that regulates lithium-ion batteries. If the voltage (V) and nominal capacity (Ah) of the battery are known, the additional watt-hour value can be calculated by Wh=V x Ah. Accidents caused by non-standard behaviors in the packaging and transportation of lithium batteries have received more and more attention.

 

Airlines and shipping companies have accordingly increased their operating requirements. Many international agencies have issued multiple regulations, and various regulatory agencies have also increased With strict and continuous revisions to regulations and regulations, IATA (Air Transport Association) updated the DGR Dangerous Goods Air Transportation Regulations to the 60th edition, with many updates, including many regulations for air/sea transportation of lithium batteries.

 

 

Shipping lithium batteries from China: freight forwarding operation process

 

The air transportation process of importing lithium batteries from China:

 

Early stage: Telephone consultation> Provide plan> Detailed requirements> Document provision> Document review> Tariff confirmation> Accept entrustment> Book space> Feedback

 

Mid-term: delivery cargo to warehouse> weighing> flight space confirmation> dangerous goods declaration> airport security check> cargo station delivery> cargo entering dangerous goods warehouse> bill of lading confirmation> sending information, such as AMS, ISF…> boarding and loading> flight departure

 

Later period: Issuing bills of lading> issuing overseas forecasts> forecasting the port of destination> import customs clearance> booking DG vehicles> sending goods to warehouse> customer signing and returning customs declaration

 

 

The shipping process for importing lithium batteries from China full container (FCL):

 

Early stage: Telephone consultation> Provide plan> Detailed requirements> Document provision> Document review> Tariff confirmation> Accept entrustment> Apply for dangerous goods space> Feedback

 

Mid-term: Cargo warehousing> Container yard picking> Cargo packing> On-site reinforcement> Pasting dangerous labels> Photo confirmation> Dangerous goods declaration>Container warehousing> Bill of lading confirmation> Send information, such as AMS, ISF…> Inquire about port opening plan> Container Entry>Customs Declaration

 

In case of inspection: Inspection plan> Port deportation plan> Deportation of containers to dangerous warehouses> Special personnel to accompany the inspection> Re-reinforcement> Take photos and keep files> Second entry> Inquire about departure information

 

Later period: Issue bill of lading> Send overseas forecast> Forecast at destination port> Import customs clearance> Schedule DG vehicle> Delivery and receipt warehouse> Customer sign and return customs declaration

 

 

What is the UN38.3 report?

 

Report and content:

 

The content of the “Appraisal of Cargo Transport Conditions” is composed of the UN38.3 test report and the 1.2-meter drop packaging test report.

 

What does UN38.3 test content include?

 

(For a single battery)

UN38.3 is section 38.3 about lithium battery testing in the “Test and Standard Manual” prepared by the United Nations Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods. The test content:

 

T.1 height test

Store at least 6 hours under low air pressure with pressure ≤11.6kPa and temperature 20±5℃.

 

T.2 temperature test

Carry out high and low temperature repeated tests under the conditions of 75±2℃ and -40±2℃, storage time in extreme temperature ≥6h; high and low-temperature conversion time ≤30min, repeat 10 times; then store at room temperature (20±5℃) 24h, the total test time is at least one week.

 

T.3 Vibration test

Within 15 minutes, the frequency swings between 7 Hz and 200 Hz and then returns to a logarithmic sweep of 7 Hz. This vibration process must be repeated 12 times in each direction of the three mutually perpendicular battery installation orientations, for a total of 3 hours. One of the vibration directions must be perpendicular to the end face.

 

T.4 Impact test

Must withstand a half-sine wave shock with a maximum acceleration of 150gn and a pulse duration of 6 milliseconds. Each battery has to withstand three shocks in the positive direction of the three mutually perpendicular battery installation directions, and then three shocks in the opposite direction, for a total of 18 shocks. Large batteries and large battery packs must withstand a half-sine wave shock with a maximum acceleration of 50 gn and a pulse duration of 11 milliseconds. Each battery or the battery pack must withstand three shocks in the positive direction of the three mutually perpendicular battery installation directions, and then three shocks in the opposite direction, for a total of 18 shocks.

 

T1-T4 judgment conditions: weight loss is within the allowable range, no leakage, no air leakage, no disassembly, no rupture, and no burning, and the open-circuit voltage of each test cell or battery pack after the test is not less than that of the One 90% of the voltage before the test. Batteries and battery packs meet this requirement. The voltage requirements do not apply to test cells and battery packs in a fully discharged state.

 

T.5 External short circuit test

Short-circuit under the condition of 55±2℃ and external resistance<0.1Ω, and the short-circuit time last for 1h after the battery temperature returns to 55±2℃. The battery or the battery pack must be observed for another 6 hours before ending the test.

 

T5 Judgment Condition: If the temperature of the battery or battery pack does not exceed 170°C and there is no disassembly, no cracking or no burning within 6 hours after the test, it meets this requirement.

 

T.6: Crash test

A 9.1Kg weight dropped from a height of 61±62.5px on the battery with a 15.8mm round rod, and the surface temperature of the battery was detected and observed for 6 hours.

 

T6 judgment condition: within 6 hours, no disassembly/no damage/no burning, battery surface temperature <170℃

 

T.7: Overcharge test

The charging current is twice the maximum charging current recommended by the manufacturer. The minimum test voltage is as follows:

(a) When the charging voltage recommended by the manufacturer is not greater than 18V, the minimum test voltage should be twice the maximum charging voltage of the battery pack or 22V, whichever is less.

(b) When the charging voltage recommended by the manufacturer is greater than 18V, the minimum test voltage should be 1.2 times the maximum charging voltage of the battery pack.

The test should be carried out at ambient temperature. The test time should be 24 hours.

 

T7 Judgment Condition: Observe for 7 days, no disintegration, no burning

 

T.8: Test forced discharge:

The battery is connected in series with a 12V DC power supply and is forced to discharge with the maximum discharge current.

 

 

What does the 1.2m drop test include?

 

1.2m drop test (after packaging) the packaged lithium battery is dropped from 1.2m (the lowest point of the battery) to 18-20mm thick hardwood board (the board is spread on the concrete floor) under the condition of 20±5℃, from X , Y, Z positive and negative six directions, one drop in each direction. (6 sides, 3 sides, 1 corner), judgment criteria:

(a). The packaging is not damaged;

(b). The battery and battery cell are not damaged or leaked;

(c). There is no contact between the battery and the battery;

 

 

What is the MSDS report, and content:

 

MSDS stands for Material Safety Data Sheet, which can also be translated into chemical safety technical specifications or chemical safety data sheets. It is used by chemical manufacturers and importers to clarify the physical and chemical properties of chemicals (such as PH value, flash point, flammability, reactivity, etc.) and possible harm to the user’s health (such as carcinogenicity, teratogenicity, etc.) One document.

 

In European countries, the material safety technology/datasheet MSDS is also called the safety technology/datasheet SDS (Safety Datasheet).

 

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) uses SDS terminology, but the United States, Canada, Australia and many countries in Asia use MSDS terminology.

 

MSDS is a comprehensive legal document regarding the characteristics of chemicals provided to customers by chemical production or sales companies in accordance with legal requirements. It provides 16 items including physical and chemical parameters, explosive properties, health hazards, safe use and storage, leakage treatment, first-aid measures, and related laws and regulations. MSDS can be compiled by the manufacturer in accordance with relevant rules, or it can be compiled by a professional organization.

 

The basic 16 categories are classified as follows:

Item 1: Chemical name and manufacturer information

Item 2: Chemical composition information

The third item: Hazard information

Item 4: First aid measures

Item 5: Fire Fighting Measures

Item 6: Leak emergency treatment

Item Seven: Operation and Storage

Item 8: Exposure control and personal protection measures

Item 9: Physical and Chemical Properties

Item Ten: Stability and Reactivity

Item 11: Toxicological Information

Item 12: Ecological Information

Item 13: Disposal

Item 14: Transportation Information

Item 15: Regulatory Information

Item 16: Other information

 

Third-party appraisal agency

In East China, the qualified third-party appraisal agency confirmed by the Civil Aviation Administration of China and airlines is the Shanghai Research Institute of Chemical Industry Testing Center.

 

The qualified third-party appraisal agency accredited by the Civil Aviation Administration of China and airlines in Southwest China is the Dangerous Goods Aviation Safety Transport Appraisal Center of the Second Research Institute of the Civil Aviation Administration of China.

 

 

Lithium battery: exception permission

 

1. Lithium batteries with certain indicators can be transported under the exceptional conditions of non-dangerous goods, but they must meet specific performance indicators and packaging requirements, and lithium battery warning labels must be posted as shown in Figure 7, instead of Class 9 dangerous goods labels.

 

According to the IATA standard, lithium batteries transported under this condition must meet the corresponding performance indicators, packaging requirements, and outer packaging label requirements

 

This part of small lithium metal and lithium-ion batteries does not require them to comply with all DGR provisions, that is, in the 54th edition of IATA DGR, for lithium-ion batteries, they meet the second part of package instructions 965, 966, and 967 (ie: 965 II, 966 II, 967 II); for lithium metal batteries, it meets the requirements set forth in Part Two of Packing Instructions 968, 969 and 970 (ie: 968 II, 969 II, 970 II).

 

1. The difference between PI: 965, PI 968 and PI: 965 II, 968 II

In 2013, IATA began to use new regulations and packaging requirements. Among them, PI: 965 Section II (referred to as 965 II), PI: 968 Section II (referred to as 968 II) were modified on the original PI 965 and PI 968 clauses, and To distinguish between the original PI: 965, PI 968 regulations.

 

1. Document requirements:

A valid third-party appraisal agency’s “Appraisal of Cargo Transportation Conditions” must be provided in the current year, and the conclusion should be shown: It can be transported as general cargo

 

Provide packaging certificates, entrusted declarations, and other documents. At the same time, the air waybill still needs to be specially marked on the operation of lithium batteries to remind the crew to take precautions.

 

1. Common exception scope products:

Most of the transported (separate) lithium-ion batteries meet the requirements of the lithium-ion batteries that can be used as unrestricted air transport in the UN3480 category, the main products used, and the corresponding requirements

 

Rated energy	Single package	limitation factor	Application products	Operation requirements
Less than 2.7Wh	Limited weight	The weight is less than 2.5kg	Mp3, Bluetooth headset	1. Pass the UN38.3 test and the 1.2m drop test 2. Lithium battery operation label is affixed to the outer packaging
Greater than 2.7Wh, Less than 100Wh	Weight limit, limit	1~2 lithium batteries	Mobile phones, DV, notebooks, power tools, digital cameras

 

The main risk of importing lithium batteries from China?

 

1. For customers-risk of losing orders

The delivery time for R&D test samples is tight, but the UN38.3 report required for air transportation is extremely long (about one month), which often results in delays in delivery, loss of customer trust, loss of orders, and a lot of waste.

 

For packaging-packaging and reinforcement factors

 

If the packaging is negligent or not professionally reinforced, it will be deducted by the port of destination and high fines, which will affect the delivery, and it is very easy to be complained and claimed by customers. If accidents occur again, you will face serious legal liabilities and economic losses. .when importing batteries from China.

 

For the operation-the risk caused by inspection

Air transportation of lithium batteries is 100% safe, and the original packaging will be destroyed. If the packaging is not handled or handled improperly, the lithium batteries will be damaged if the packaging is scattered midway;

 

Once the shipping encounters customs inspection, the container needs to be moved to the dangerous goods warehouse. The distance is long. If the control is not effective, the reinforcement and restoration are ignored, and the original shipping schedule cannot be met, the delivery will be delayed (about 2 weeks delay).

 

Important amendments to lithium battery regulations:

 

There are two important amendments to the lithium battery in the TDG regulations:

 

(1) 14 UN numbers have been added to Class 2-9 dangerous goods. Among them, UN 3536 is designated as a lithium-ion or lithium metal battery pack for installation in cargo equipment in Class 9 dangerous goods. This type of battery must be firmly fixed in the internal structure of the cargo transportation device when shipping from China. There is no need to affix a transportation mark or label on the surface of the battery, but it needs to be affixed with the UN number and display signs on both sides.

 

(2) In the “List of Dangerous Goods”, 5 were deleted, 5 were newly added, and 7 special regulations were revised. In Special Provision 388, the UN numbers of various types of power vehicles and equipment containing lithium batteries and sodium batteries are clearly defined: lithium metal batteries, lithium-ion batteries, sodium batteries, etc., driven by flammable gas or flammable liquid Hybrid vehicles (UN3166), lithium metal batteries, lithium-ion batteries, sodium batteries, etc., pure electric vehicles are driven by flammable gas or flammable liquids (UN 3171), lithium metal batteries (UN 3091) and equipment installed in equipment Lithium-ion battery (UN 3481) in equipment.

 

In addition, IATA (International Air Transport Association) has revised the 59th edition of the dangerous goods transportation regulations, and recently released the revised version, many of which also involve air transportation of lithium batteries. It is understood that the new rules will be implemented from January 2018. The main changes are as follows:

 

(1) The isolation rules for lithium batteries have been added: Lithium-ion batteries (UN3480, PI965SectionIAorIB) and lithium metal batteries (UN3090, PI968SectionIAorIB) and including explosives (Class1), ammunition (Division1.4S), and flammable gases (Division2. 1) Flammable liquids (Class3), flammable solids or self-reactive substances or solid desensitized explosives (Division4.1) and oxidants (Division5.1) are packed in the same outer packaging.

 

(2) The total number of portable electronic devices carried by passengers or crew members should not exceed 15, and the number of spare batteries should not exceed 20. If the number exceeds the above number, the airline must obtain approval.

 

(3) It is stipulated that the height of the UN code number in the Lithium battery mark shall not be less than 12mm

 

In addition, the “International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code” (IMDG CODE) version 38-16 promulgated by the International Maritime Organization will also be enforced in China from January 2018. Among them, the P910 packaging guidelines are added for lithium batteries that are low-yield SP310, have an annual output of less than 100, and have not passed the UN38.3 test of the “Test and Standard Manual” and are transported for testing.

 

In order to ensure the safety of lithium-ion battery transportation, Chinese battery companies should do the following:

(1) Pay attention to the new requirements of the new United Nations regulations for lithium batteries, especially the new definition rules of the new lithium battery UN number and the transportation requirements of “damaged/defective” lithium batteries. when exporting batteries from China.

 

(2) Continue to pay attention to the time when the International Maritime Dangerous Regulations and the International Air Transport Dangerous Regulations are introduced to the new United Nations regulations, and adjust the transportation packaging and documentation of lithium batteries as soon as possible.

 

• Strengthen the contact with inspection and quarantine departments and cargo transportation agencies, understand the implementation rules of each department for the new United Nations regulations, and ensure the smooth consignment of exported lithium batteries.

 

Importing lithium batteries from China: FAQ

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Regulations (2ooo revised edition) (IM DG CODE2000 Edition) is referred to as Maritime Dangerous Goods Regulations. Dangerous goods are classified, and dangerous goods are divided into 9 categories.

 

Lithium batteries are classified as dangerous goods in Class 9-Miscellaneous Hazardous Substances by sea. The UN number is UN3090, UN3091, and the transport packaging category is Class II;

 

Sodium-containing battery packs are classified as dangerous goods in category 4.3-substances that emit flammable gas in contact with water, the UN number is UN3292, and the transport packaging category is Class II;

Other storage batteries are classified as dangerous goods in Class 8-corrosive substances, and the UN numbers are UN2794, UN2795, UN2800, UN3028, and the transport packaging category is category III.

 

1. What certificate is required for exporting and transporting batteries from China?

The contents of the documents provided are different according to different batteries and shipping methods, generally MSDS, non-dangerous certificate (cargo transportation appraisal), UN.38.3; experimental appraisal report, and dangerous package certificate issued by the Commodity Inspection Bureau.

 

2. Batteries are dangerous goods. Will exports from China be subject to sea inspection?

For customs: As long as the battery is not restricted from export or import from this country, there is no reason for the customs to seize your goods unless your goods are counterfeit.

 

There are also corresponding regulations in the shipping of lithium batteries. As long as the correct battery documents are provided, the shipping company will not reject the battery cargo.

 

3. Should the battery be exported from China for commodity inspection?

The battery belongs to the Chinese legal inspection category, so commodity inspection is required. Lithium batteries can also be used for a tax refunds.

 

 

4. Which battery outlets do not need to provide MSDS?

• Alkaline battery
• Zn-Mn battery
• Carbon-Zinc battery
• Dry battery

 

It can be regarded as non-dangerous goods, no dangerous goods need to be declared, and no need to send samples for review, but a non-dangerous goods transportation appraisal report issued by the Chinese National Appraisal Institute is required. To prove that the goods are non-dangerous goods, they can be imported from China as ordinary goods.

 

So in addition to the above non-hazardous batteries, what are the more common ones that need to provide MSDS and cargo transportation condition verification to determine the appropriate loading of batteries?

 

Supplement: Non-hazardous batteries that need to be verified by MSDS:

1) Lithium batteries: MSDS and SP188 must be provided in compliance with IMDG Code before they can be shipped as general goods.

2) Lead-acid batteries: MSDS and SP238 must be provided in compliance with IMDG Code before they can be shipped as general goods.

3) Ni-MH batteries: MSDS and package photos of the goods are required to confirm whether they can be shipped as general goods. Please indicate the shipping form when applying.

 

5. Why does the battery need to be stored for a period of time before being packaged and shipped?

The storage performance of the battery is an important parameter to measure the stability of the overall performance of the battery. After the battery has been stored for a certain period of time, the capacity and internal resistance of the battery are allowed to change to a certain extent. After a period of storage, the electrochemical performance of the internal components can be stabilized, and the self-discharge performance of the battery can be understood to ensure the quality of the battery. Ensure that the safety of batteries exported from China is greatly improved.

 

6. What is the shipping cost for lithium batteries shipped from China?
If the battery is classified as ordinary cargo, it is the same as an ordinary ocean and air cargo.

If it is classified as dangerous goods, the shipping and air freight for lithium batteries is 1.5 times or twice that of ordinary goods.

 

Common certifications and directives for lithium batteries worldwide:

 

UN38.3 certification

The scope of suitability covers almost the whole world, which is a safety and performance test. As long as the shipping package involved in air transportation contains lithium batteries, whether it is a small button battery, a battery installed on the device, or a battery packaged with the device, It is necessary to carry out the UN38.3 test and obtain the air transport identification report before passing the air inspection. The certification period ranges from a few days to a month (mainly based on the product’s capacity and the test of the preliminary conditions), and the certification fee ranges from several thousand yuan to more than 10,000 yuan.

 

The reason why the quotations of compliant Chinese lithium battery suppliers are more expensive than the quotations of many non-compliant lithium battery suppliers? This is the reason why many non-compliant suppliers will not do any test reports at all. Do you import lithium batteries of this quality?

 

As a compliant freight forwarder for dangerous goods in China, Bestforworld refuses to handle lithium battery cargo provided by such non-compliant suppliers. when you ship Lithium batteries from China.

 

So how to choose a certification body to apply for this certification? In fact, as long as it meets the requirements of the laboratory’s IEC17025, has relevant UN38.3 testing professional equipment, backed by strong technical guidance, UN38.3 testing can be carried out and a UN38.3 test report can be issued;

 

It is worth noting that the final air transport identification report must be reviewed and issued by a dangerous goods identification agency directly authorized by the Civil Aviation Administration of China. The difference between UNDOT (UND38.3) and other certifications is that the effects of other certifications are reflected in terminal sales. In the market, UNDOT’s test results are reflected in the transportation process.

 

IEC 62133 certification

Lithium batteries are imported from China to Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and India. IEC 62133 is the most important international standard for lithium-ion batteries in the world and an important basis for IECEE-CB certification. At present, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, India, and other countries have adopted IEC 62133 to formulate their own national standards. These standards have become an important basis for market access in these countries.

The latest version of IEC 62133 was released on February 7, 2017. IEC 62133 is under the jurisdiction of IEC/SC21A and is specifically formulated by WG4. The first edition was released in 2002 and the second edition was released in 2012.

 

CE certification

Lithium batteries imported from China to Europe are suitable for the EU region. They are divided into safety and performance tests. The certification period ranges from a few days to a year, and the certification costs range from several thousand RMB to tens of thousands of RMB. Compared with UL certification, the probability of passing CE certification (safety) is relatively higher. In our opinion, the size of EU member states has attracted most manufacturers to carry out CE certification. After all, the sales prices in Europe, America and North America are much better than domestic ones, but Because of the huge size of the European Union, the speed of its standard update is also surprising, so many manufacturers have been in a state of confusion and it seems difficult to keep up with the standard update. This is also an important reason why the price of compliant lithium battery suppliers is higher than that of non-compliant suppliers because the cost of continuously updating the CE certification is huge, but in order to ensure the safe export of lithium batteries, this step is necessary. This part of the investment is also worthwhile.

The CE certification is a self-declaration. If the manufacturer has the ability to conduct the test, it can completely affix the CE conformity label on its product to Europe. However, if it is unqualified in the EU market, it will be called (very serious) The fine), all Chinese lithium battery suppliers entrust a third party to conduct tests, which largely avoids the risk of recall. Contact Bestforworld for CE certification of batteries to reduce the cost of CE and the efficiency of issuing certificates.

 

EU Battery Directive

In 2003, Europe successively promulgated the RoHS and WEEE directives, which caused an uproar among the electrical appliance manufacturers in various countries, especially China. Everyone was running around and understanding the two directives. But many people don’t know that these two directives are not suitable for “battery”. The battery has a special battery directive Battery Directive

2006/66/EC, the EU Battery Directive, and RoHS are parallel directives suitable for different products, but many battery manufacturers firmly believe in “SGS certification” and “RoHS”, but they do not realize that it is a fundamental mistake!

SGS is a certification body in Europe. The RoHS directive is not suitable for batteries. Therefore, the EU Battery Directive is the correct title. You should pay attention to the “EU Battery Directive” instead of other directives, otherwise, it will easily cause a lot of unnecessary trouble. In addition, if the product needs to be noted for e-commerce, Amazon Germany now requires that the product must be WEEE before it can be put on the shelf.

 

UL certification

Lithium batteries imported from China to the United States are suitable for North America, mainly for safety testing. The certification period is usually about 2 months (lead-acid batteries are slightly shorter), and the certification fee is usually tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of RMB Not waiting. The reason why UL certification is popular is that there is a phenomenon in North America, that is, for all UL-certified products, if consumers have undesirable consequences (such as harming consumer rights) after purchase due to product quality problems, consumers can complain to sellers, And sellers can easily get compensation from insurance companies, because the products have passed UL certification, so, to a large extent, UL products are easy to sell in North America.

 

PSE certification

Importing lithium batteries from China to Japan: The applicable scope is Japan, mainly for safety and performance testing. There are currently two standards on the market, one is quoting IEC60950, the other is quoting IEC62133, the former is general information products Standard, the latter is an international proprietary standard for batteries. The former will be gradually replaced by the latter. The former has a short certification cycle, which can take two weeks, while the latter has a longer certification cycle, which takes 1-2 months. The certification fee also corresponds to several thousand yuan to tens of thousands of yuan. The price difference mainly depends on which form of PSE (diamond or round) is applied for and which standard is used.

 

“Specified electrical appliances and materials” products entering the Japanese market must obtain third-party certification approved by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry of Japan, and mark the PSE diamond mark. “Non-specific electrical appliances and materials” products must make self-declarations or apply for third-party certification. Mark the PSE circular logo. Both lithium batteries can be selected. At present, due to cost considerations, lithium power plants choose round lithium batteries, unless foreign customers request prismatic lithium batteries.

 

KC certification

Import lithium batteries from China to South Korea: Applicable to South Korea, test standard KC62133, special note is that the battery KC certification depends on whether the battery cell has been KC or CB certification if the battery cell has been CB or KC, then directly The cost of making battery KC is 15,000 to 20,000. If the battery is not made, the cost of making the whole product is 30,000-35,000

Shipping Product With Lithium Batteries

Products containing lithium batteries are usually banned during ordinary international transport, which may sound absurd, but they are considered to be an explosive risk. A growing number of national government departments have tightened rules for the transport of electronic devices with built-in lithium batteries. Strict restrictions will require manufacturers and shippers to make comprehensive and expensive changes to the way they package and label.

When shipping these cargo, courier carrier requires the provision of MSDS documents and external packaging paste electronic tags.

When shipping by courier service, shippers and manufacturers need to pay for the transportation and other surcharges of all hazardous substances.

If you need to transport the goods with the built-in battery like VAPE, please contact us for more.

Shipping Lithium Battery Pack

A single lithium battery does not meet the demand for energy, so batteries pack synthesized of multiple lithium-ion batteries are becoming increasingly popular. These lithium batteries pack weight individually a few kilograms, or dozens of kg. These batteries are used in scooters, motorcycles, and skateboards.

When you order a high-capacity battery pack, your goods must comply with regulatory laws and shipping rules.

This type of lithium battery is larger and often encounters some difficulties in transporting. Are you transporting them? Contact us to get a quote.