Sending Batteries in the Post

How to Send Batteries in the Post

Shipping all types of batteries is considered risky because they are a potential fire hazard. However, by following the guidance and packaging instructions set out by the regulatory bodies, sending batteries in the post is safe and convenient.

In this article, restrictions and packaging advice are explained to provide a detailed guide on how to send batteries through the post.

Shipping Batteries

Some batteries are considered to be dangerous goods because in certain conditions they can cause fires or explosions. Although it is rare, when batteries are exposed to high temperatures or damaged in transit, the results can be catastrophic.

Historical events

In 2010, a fire on a UPS plane was determined to have been caused by lithium batteries.

Incidents like this prompted the introduction of stricter national and international regulations for shipping batteries. These regulations protect the general public and the people, vehicles and equipment that handle batteries when they are in transit.

Carriers

Different rules apply depending on the carrier, and whether the batteries are to be shipped within the UK or internationally.

Before sending batteries in the post, it is important to check the regulations of the chosen carrier for both the type of battery and the required destination. Things that might need to be considered include:

• leaving new everyday batteries, like AAs and AAAs, in their original packaging
• shipping certain types of battery inside an electrical device, like mobile and laptop batteries
• wrapping batteries or devices containing batteries in protective packaging like bubble wrap
• using warning labels on parcels to highlight the contents

Shipping Lithium Batteries

Lithium batteries are lightweight with a high power output and a long life. Because of these benefits, they continue to grow in popularity and can be found in many portable electronic devices.

Lithium batteries are often separated into two categories:

Lithium-ion batteries

These batteries are rechargeable and are used in devices like:

• mobile phones
• laptops
• digital cameras
• power tools

Lithium metal batteries

These batteries tend to be non-rechargeable and are used in devices such as:

• watches
• electronic key fobs
• calculators

Shipping restrictions

Shipping lithium batteries is considered hazardous because this type of battery is the most likely to cause fire or explosion if packed incorrectly.

In 2013, regulations were introduced by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to make shipping lithium batteries safer.

When sending batteries in the post, these shipping restrictions mean that:

• No damaged batteries can be shipped.
• Batteries must be packed and labelled correctly.
• Certain types of battery must be sent with a State of Charge (SoC) of no more than 30%.

Even though there are restrictions, it is possible to ship lithium batteries as long as the regulatory guidelines are followed. Carriers each have specific guidelines based on current shipping regulations.

Failure to follow the carrier’s instructions could result in a parcel being rejected, returned or uninsured during transit. In the worst case scenario, it could lead to prosecution of the sender.

Sending lithium batteries in the post

Whether shipping batteries to anywhere in the UK or overseas, following these three initial steps will make the process easier:

1. Gather information

Before posting lithium batteries, it is useful to note down details that the carrier might need:

• Decide if the batteries will be contained inside electrical equipment or packed separately but together with the equipment.
• Confirm the total number of batteries to be posted.
• Inspect each battery to make sure it is undamaged.
• Check the watt-hour (Wh) rating of each battery, which is given on the outside of every battery. As a guide, a lithium battery in a mobile phone or laptop will not normally exceed 100Wh.
• Find out the approximate weights of the items to be posted.

2. Confirm carrier restrictions

Ask the carrier what their restrictions are for posting lithium batteries. Restrictions will probably include:

• A maximum number of lithium batteries per package.
  This is often the number of batteries connected to the electrical equipment and up to two spares.
• A maximum Wh per battery.
  There is usually a limit of 100Wh per battery.
• A maximum weight per parcel.
  There could be a limit on the weight of batteries or electrical items per package, or a maximum parcel weight.
• A requirement for a lithium battery declaration
  The carrier may need packages to be labelled with lithium battery handling labels or signed customs declarations.

3. Prepare packaging materials

Collect or restock wrapping and cushioning materials in advance:

• Ensure there are enough suitably sized boxes available so that none will be under or overfilled.
• The box in a box packing method is mandatory for some consignments, so if this applies, source additional boxes.
• Ensure there is plenty of bubble wrap and parcel tape available.