1. Battery Certification: Essential Documentation for Global Compliance
Proper certification forms the foundation for international shipping of battery-powered products. These key documents ensure compliance with global safety standards:
UN38.3 Certification: The Mandatory Safety Passport
This certification evaluates lithium batteries through eight rigorous tests simulating transport conditions, including altitude simulation, thermal testing, vibration, shock, short circuit, overcharge, and forced discharge. Only batteries passing all tests receive certification.
- Note: Testing must be conducted by accredited third-party laboratories, with reports valid for five years.
MSDS Report: Chemical Composition Documentation
The Material Safety Data Sheet details battery components, physical/chemical properties, hazard classifications, protective measures, and emergency procedures. This document helps carriers and customs assess potential risks.
DGM Report: Air Transport Classification
This IATA-compliant report classifies batteries as either Section II (non-restricted) or Section IB (restricted) based on type and energy density. Typical lithium batteries qualify for Section II.
Additional Requirements
- Commercial invoices must clearly state "contains lithium batteries" with specifications
- Regional certifications may apply (e.g., CE for EU, FCC for US)
2. Compliant Packaging: Protection Through Every Shipping Stage
Inner Packaging: Primary Protection Layer
- Individual batteries require anti-static bags (≥0.08mm thickness)
- Sealed openings with heat sealing or ≥3 insulation tape wraps
- Devices must be powered off with button protection
- Detachable batteries require ≥5cm separation from host devices
Outer Packaging: Structural Integrity
- Use 5-ply corrugated boxes with bursting strength ≥1500kPa
- Allow 10-15% extra space for cushioning
- Seal with ≥5cm kraft tape using H-pattern method
Cushioning Materials: Impact Absorption
- EPE pearl cotton (≥30kg/m³ density, ≥2cm thickness)
- Air column cushions (≥1cm diameter, ≥90% inflation)
- Avoid loose fillers like newspaper or foam pellets
Labeling Requirements
- 9.5×14.5cm lithium battery handling labels
- "Cargo Aircraft Only" labels for pure battery shipments
Drop Testing: Packaging Validation
Conduct 1.2-meter drop tests to verify packaging integrity. Repack if any product displacement or battery movement occurs.
By adhering to these certification and packaging standards, businesses can ensure safe, efficient global distribution of battery-powered products while maintaining regulatory compliance.