Customs Clearance for Shipping Lithium Batteries-Latest Requirements for 2025
International shipping of lithium batteries is far from a simple shipping process. Since lithium batteries are classified as Class 9 dangerous goods, they are subject to strict customs inspections during port clearance. Every shipment must comply with rigorous documentation, battery packaging, and customs supervision requirements. Even a single error in the paperwork can lead to delays, potential fines, or, in more serious cases, cargo seizure. This article will explain the key documents shippers need to prepare for lithium battery customs clearance and guide you on how to ensure a smooth and successful process.
Preparation Before Shipping Lithium Batteries - Customs Clearance Basics
The customs clearance process does not begin only when your batteries arrive at the destination port; it should be planned from the very start. In fact, preparation can begin even before the batteries are packed and shipped. You can choose to ship lithium batteries by air, or you can choose to ship lithium batteries by sea.
Classifying the Batteries:
The first and most critical step is to properly classify the batteries and match them with the correct HS code. Accuracy in classification is essential for customs clearance and release, as the HS code determines applicable duties and regulations in the destination country. For example, shippers must distinguish whether the product is a lithium-ion battery (UN3480, HS: 8507600090) or a primary lithium-metal battery (UN3090, HS: 8506500000), among others.
Relevant Customs Clearance Documents:
It is essential to provide complete documentation and accurate declarations, as incomplete paperwork or incorrect declarations are the main causes of customs clearance delays.
Customs Documents: For exports from China, the required documents generally include a Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Sales Contract, and Export Declaration. For import clearance abroad, the basic requirements are usually a Commercial Invoice and Packing List. These serve as your reference.
UN38.3 Test Report: This document is a safety test certification required under IATA regulations. It is often requested by customs authorities worldwide to verify the safety compliance of lithium batteries.
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS / SDS): This document provides detailed information on the properties of the batteries. Customs use it in conjunction with the UN38.3 report to evaluate overall safety.
Dangerous Goods Packaging Certificate: Required mainly for air shipments when the battery cell capacity exceeds 20Wh or the battery pack exceeds 100Wh. It is also needed for export customs clearance in China.
Safety Certificate: Generally issued by the manufacturer as a formal declaration of product safety.
Packaging and Marking Compliance
Your packaging must comply with standard regulatory requirements, as customs may inspect and reject shipments with non-compliant packaging.
The exact requirements depend on the mode of transport. For air freight, the packaging and labeling must follow aviation standards. Mandatory labels on the outer carton include: Class 9 Dangerous Goods label, UN3480/UN3090 labels, and for air transport, the Cargo Aircraft Only label.
For further information on lithium battery customs clearance procedures, please reach out to our team for professional support.
Customs Clearance Process for Transporting Lithium Batteries - Step-by-Step Breakdown
When your battery cargo is packed and handed over to the designated freight forwarder for transportation, it will first undergo export customs clearance in China. Upon arrival at the destination, the shipment will then be subject to import customs clearance before final delivery.
The Role of the Customs Broker:
For lithium batteries, working with a customs broker who has extensive experience in handling dangerous goods is extremely important. Such professionals maintain direct communication with customs authorities and can clearly present the details of your cargo. With their accumulated expertise, they can quickly verify whether the documentation is accurate. Being familiar with customs regulations on lithium batteries, they can promptly resolve issues as they arise, preventing problems from escalating into delays or even cargo seizure.
Key Steps in the Clearance Workflow:
1.Entry Filing & Submission: Your broker electronically submits the customs entry (e.g., ACE in the USA, CDS in the UK) along with all supporting documentation to the destination country’s customs authority.
2.Examination Hold: Customs may conduct random inspections of cargo upon arrival at the destination. Inspections may also be triggered by factors such as inaccurate documentation, lack of clear country-of-origin information, or under-declared cargo value. These situations can significantly extend the customs clearance process.
3.Duty & Tax Assessment: Customs calculates import duties and taxes (such as VAT) based on the declared value and HS code of products like batteries, electric vehicles, or drones. It is also essential to understand international trade terms, which define who is responsible for paying these charges (e.g., DDP, DDU, DAP).
4.Customs Release:Once all customs requirements for the batteries have been met and the applicable duties and taxes have been paid, customs will release the shipment. The cargo can then move freely from the port or airport to its final delivery destination.
When it comes to the customs clearance process for lithium battery shipments, it requires handling by a professional team. The Batteryshipment.com team is your best choice for assistance.
Regional Differences in Lithium Battery Customs Clearance
Each country has different regulations for battery products, and the clearance requirements may vary accordingly. Please review the following information regarding the specific requirements in different regions:
United States:
In addition to standard customs inspections, batteries intended for medical use may be subject to review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), while consumer batteries may fall under the supervision of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Europe Union：
Batteries are generally required to have CE certification and may also need to comply with REACH and WEEE directives.
United Kingdom:
Since the UK has left the European Union, many products are now required to carry the UKCA mark instead of the CE marking.
China,& South Korea:
In China, battery products generally require CCC (China Compulsory Certification), while in South Korea, they must have KC certification.
The customs clearance variations for lithium batteries across different countries have not been extensively covered. If you need more detailed information on this aspect, please feel free to contact us.
Packaging and Labeling Compliance
When exporting lithium battery dangerous goods from China, the packaging materials must undergo inspection before export. Customs will only approve the use of UN-certified cartons for export declaration. For high-capacity lithium battery shipments, the following requirements must be met:
Inner Packaging for Lithium Batteries:
Protective inner materials must be used to prevent short-circuiting and damage. The inner packaging should comply with regulations to reduce the risk of fire.
Outer Packaging Requirements:
The outer cartons containing lithium batteries must be sufficiently strong, with fire-resistant and pressure-resistant capacity. Adequate cushioning materials should be used to minimize shock or impact during transportation.
Outer Carton Labeling:
Cartons must display the Class 9 Dangerous Goods label, UN3480 lithium battery label, and the Cargo Aircraft Only label where required. For customs clearance, additional marks such as CE certification labels and BIS codes may also be necessary.
In conclusion, non-compliant packaging is one of the key reasons for customs inspections and clearance delays. Partnering with certified packaging material suppliers can help reduce this risk. You may also contact us for further guidance on this matter.
Taxes and Regulations on Lithium Battery Transportation
When lithium batteries are exported from China to other countries, the local customs authorities at the destination will calculate the final duties and taxes based on the HS code, the declared value on the commercial invoice, and the certificate of origin. In many countries, lithium batteries are subject to import restrictions, requiring specific compliance documents to clear customs. Certain types of batteries for special applications—such as drone batteries, medical-use batteries, or solar energy batteries—may also face additional restrictions.
Professional Partnership for Lithium Battery Customs Clearance
The customs clearance process for lithium battery exports and imports is very complex, mainly due to the special nature of the batteries. Many exporting factories and importing buyers rely heavily on a professional freight forwarder capable of providing such specialized services. The following outlines the criteria for selecting such freight forwarders:
Qualifications for Handling Lithium Battery Dangerous Goods:
Check whether the freight forwarder you are working with holds the relevant dangerous goods handling certifications, and verify their authenticity if available.
Industry Experience:
Understand how long the freight forwarder has been operating in the industry. This is an important criterion, as longer-established agents tend to offer greater stability and reliability.
Client Portfolio:
Review the freight forwarder’s client base. For a forwarder specializing in lithium battery transport, check whether they have partnerships with major local battery manufacturers, such as Sunwoda or CATL.
Risks in Customs Clearance for Transporting Lithium Batteries
Customs inspections are often conducted randomly. Even with thorough preparation, risks may still exist. To ensure smooth clearance of lithium batteries, shippers should take the following steps:
Purchase Insurance:
Since customs inspections may involve opening the packaging, this can potentially cause damage or loss. Purchasing insurance in advance helps mitigate this risk.
Submit Accurate Documentation:
Before the shipment arrives at the destination, prepare detailed and accurate documents for the local customs clearance agent. Once the cargo arrives, these documents are submitted to customs for clearance.
For professional assistance in minimizing customs clearance risks for your lithium battery shipments, please contact the Batteryshipment.com team.
FAQ:Regarding Lithium Battery Customs Clearance
No problem, we need the battery documentation, packing list/invoice/contract/customs declaration.
Yes, we can do it.
We can handle battery customs clearance and importation under terms such as DDU/DDP for destinations including the United States, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
We have extensive experience, for example, in the United States we handle hundreds of customs clearance import services each month.
Sure, whenever you need it.
Some countries allow it, while others impose anti-dumping measures, so advance research is necessary.