Can international express batteries be shipped by air？

2025-05-02

Yes, batteries can be shipped internationally by air, but they are subject to strict regulations and guidelines set forth by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and various countries' transport authorities. These regulations are in place to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and property due to the potential hazards batteries can pose, especially lithium batteries, which can be volatile if not handled properly.

Here are key points to consider when shipping batteries by air:

1. Type of Battery: The type of battery will dictate the regulations that apply. For instance, lithium batteries have different restrictions compared to non-lithium batteries.

2. Lithium Batteries: Shipping lithium batteries is highly regulated. For example:
- Lithium-ion batteries: These are generally allowed in carry-on baggage but must be below a certain watt-hour rating. In cargo, they must comply with specific packaging, marking, and labeling requirements, and are limited to a maximum of 0.3 kg per package for lithium metal batteries and 5 kg per package for lithium-ion batteries.
- Lithium metal batteries: These have stricter regulations and are generally allowed in smaller quantities in carry-on baggage but are more restricted in cargo.

3. Non-Lithium Batteries: These are generally less restricted but still must meet certain requirements, such as packaging and labeling.

4. Documentation: Proper documentation is crucial, including a shipper’s declaration for dangerous goods and the correct IATA shipping papers.

5. Packaging: Batteries must be packaged in a way that prevents accidental activation or short-circuiting, and the packaging must be capable of withstanding normal handling during transport.

6. Training: Shippers must be trained in the transport of dangerous goods as per IATA regulations.

7. Prohibited Items: There are some batteries that are forbidden in air transport, such as those that are recalled, damaged, or identified as being defective for transport.

It is essential for anyone looking to ship batteries internationally by air to become thoroughly familiar with the applicable regulations or to work with a logistics provider that specializes in dangerous goods shipping to ensure compliance with all relevant rules and laws.

Remember that regulations can change, so it is important to consult the current IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) or relevant local regulations before shipping batteries.