If you’ve ever tried to ship lithium batteries internationally, you already know it’s not as straightforward as shipping regular cargo.
We get a lot of questions about this — what’s allowed, what’s restricted, which documents are required, and which shipping method works best. The rules can feel complicated, especially for first-time shippers.
The truth is, lithium batteries are shipped internationally every day. When the right regulations are followed, the process is safe, compliant, and reliable.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how international lithium battery shipping works, what you need to prepare, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Are Lithium Batteries Considered Dangerous Goods?
Yes, lithium batteries are classified as dangerous goods for international shipping.
This is because lithium batteries can overheat, catch fire, or short-circuit if they are damaged, improperly packed, or incorrectly handled during transport.
Due to these risks, international transport regulations place lithium batteries under strict control.
Shipping rules for lithium batteries are governed by:
- IATA regulations for air freight
- IMDG Code for sea freight
These regulations define how lithium batteries must be packaged, labeled, documented, and declared before they can be shipped internationally.
While the rules may seem strict, they are designed to ensure safe handling and transportation. Once the correct requirements are met, lithium batteries can move smoothly through the supply chain.
Types of Lithium Batteries
Not all lithium batteries are the same, and this matters a lot when it comes to shipping.
From a shipping point of view, lithium batteries fall into two main categories, each with its own rules and requirements.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable and are commonly used in:
- Mobile phones
- Laptops
- Power tools
- Electric vehicles
- Energy storage systems
These batteries are widely shipped, but they must meet specific packaging, labeling, and testing requirements before they can be accepted for transport.
Lithium-Metal Batteries
Lithium-metal batteries are non-rechargeable and are often found in:
- Watches
- Remote controls
- Medical devices
- Sensors and tracking equipment
Because they contain metallic lithium, these batteries are generally subject to stricter shipping controls, especially for air freight.
Understanding which type of lithium battery you are shipping is the first step in determining the correct shipping method and compliance requirements.
How Can Lithium Batteries Be Shipped Internationally?
Lithium batteries can be shipped internationally by air or sea, but the process and requirements differ for each method.
Shipping Lithium Batteries by Air
Air freight is faster, but it comes with stricter regulations. Airlines closely control lithium battery shipments due to fire risk, and not all batteries are accepted on passenger aircraft.
Air shipping is commonly used when:
- Speed is critical
- Battery quantities are limited
- Proper approvals and documentation are in place
Shipping Lithium Batteries by Sea
Sea freight is the most commonly used option for lithium batteries, especially for larger quantities.
It offers:
- More flexibility
- Lower cost
- Fewer quantity restrictions compared to air
However, lithium batteries shipped by sea must still comply with packaging, labeling, and declaration requirements under international maritime regulations.
Choosing the right shipping method depends on battery type, quantity, urgency, and destination.
Packaging Requirements for Lithium Battery Shipping
When it comes to shipping lithium batteries, packaging is critical.
From our experience, most delays and rejections happen because batteries are not packed correctly.
Carriers and authorities are very strict about this, and even small mistakes can cause shipments to be held or refused.
In general, lithium batteries must be:
- Protected against short circuits
- Packed to prevent movement or damage
- Placed in strong, compliant outer packaging
Depending on the shipment, batteries may need to be:
- Packed individually
- Packed with cushioning and insulation
- Separated from other cargo inside the package
In ALL the cases, UN-approved packaging is required, especially for standalone battery shipments. Proper labeling and markings must also be clearly visible on the outer package.
Correct packaging not only ensures compliance, but also helps avoid safety risks and unnecessary shipping delays.
Why Lithium Battery Shippers Choose Us
Lithium battery shipping fails most often before the cargo even moves — during classification, packing decisions, and carrier acceptance.
Our strength lies in how we work with carriers and terminals at an operational level. We focus on:
- Carrier-specific acceptance checks
- We verify lithium battery requirements based on the exact airline or shipping line, not just general regulations.
- Pre-booking cargo validation
- Shipments are reviewed before booking to catch issues that typically cause last-minute rejections
- Correct battery declaration strategy
- We ensure batteries are declared accurately to avoid misclassification or unnecessary restrictions.
- Route and transit point screening
- We account for transshipment ports and intermediate hubs where lithium battery rules may differ.
- Packaging alignment with carrier expectations
- We help ensure packaging meets not only regulatory standards, but also practical handling requirements.
- Coordination with DG-trained handling teams
- Cargo is aligned with teams experienced in dangerous goods, reducing operational risk.
- Proactive issue management
- When carrier rules change or conditions shift, we adapt quickly to keep shipments moving.
This carrier-aligned approach reduces delays, avoids booking cancellations, and helps lithium battery shipments move predictably and compliantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are lithium batteries considered dangerous goods for international shipping?
Yes, lithium batteries are classified as dangerous goods due to fire and short-circuit risks, and must comply with international transport regulations.
2. How much does it cost to ship lithium batteries internationally?
Shipping costs depend on battery type (lithium-ion or lithium-metal), quantity, weight, destination, and whether you choose air or sea freight.
3. Can lithium batteries be shipped to the USA?
Yes, lithium batteries can be shipped to the USA if they meet proper packaging, labeling, testing, and declaration requirements under international regulations.
4. What documents are required for shipping lithium batteries?
Common documents include a Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD), MSDS (if required), UN38.3 test report, and correct commercial shipping paperwork.
5. Is air freight or sea freight better for lithium battery shipments?
Air freight is faster but has stricter regulations and higher costs. Sea freight is more cost-effective for larger quantities and has fewer quantity restrictions.