What are the lithium-ion batteries in containers guidelines?

The Lithium-ion Batteries in Containers Guidelines that have just been published seek to prevent the increasing risks that the transport of lithium-ion batteries by sea creates, providing suggestions for identifying such risks and thereby helping to ensure a safer supply chain in the future.

Can lithium-ion batteries be transported safely in containers?

Industry bodies have united to produce "Guidelines for safe transport of Lithium-ion batteries in containers".

Why is shipping lithium-ion batteries important?

From smartphones, tablets, drones, and remote controls to powering electric vehicles, shipping lithium-ion batteries is becoming more and more important. As lithium batteries are classed as dangerous goods, their transportation needs to be well monitored to ensure safety and minimize potential risks during transportation.

Should lithium-ion batteries be shipped without equipment?

When shipping lithium-ion batteries without equipment, stricter requirements apply because the risks are higher. Batteries must be packed to prevent short circuits, often with non-conductive dividers or caps. State of charge (SoC) should not exceed 30%, unless a specific exemption is granted.

Are large lithium-ion batteries a risk?

However, large lithium-ion batteries, like the ones in electric vehicles, pose a greater risk because they can ignite more quickly. Unlike when shipping smaller lithium-ion batteries, new electric vehicles are moved overseas in huge Ro-Ro vessels, with their batteries secured and not live during the shipping process.

How many lithium-ion batteries can be sent by air?

If not inside a device like a smartphone, the batteries must be in a hard cased container. There are restrictions as to how many lithium-ion batteries can be sent within separate containers by air. Only a maximum of four can be sent, with two per container, and each battery must have a rating of below 100 watts per hour.