How to prepare lithium batteries for shipping
Before booking, identify the battery chemistry and how it is packed, match the test summary to the supplied model, and agree packaging and documents with the forwarder. Obtain written carrier acceptance for the actual shipment before collection. Factory evidence can be coordinated by Cambridge China Bridge.
Define the shipment before requesting acceptance
The sender is responsible for classifying, packaging and marking dangerous goods. Give the forwarder a specification showing lithium-ion or lithium-metal chemistry, cell and pack models, watt-hour rating or lithium content, and whether batteries travel alone, packed with equipment or installed in it. Ask its dangerous-goods specialist to confirm the transport classification, shipping name and applicable packing instruction for the proposed route.
Identify loose spare batteries separately, even when the main product has an installed battery. Flag prototypes, used batteries, damage and recalls before seeking a booking. Our battery sourcing guide covers buying and market responsibilities; this checklist focuses on shipment acceptance.
Match the test summary to the goods
Ask the factory for the UN38.3 test summary for the exact cell and pack being supplied. Build a traceable record connecting the factory product code, battery label, cell maker, pack maker and summary. Compare model references, chemistry and ratings, and ask the testing laboratory to resolve discrepancies before releasing the goods.
If the factory supplies only a cell summary for an assembled pack, ask the forwarder what pack evidence it needs. Treat an SDS, a product certificate and a transport test summary as separate documents. Use our test report verification guide to check authenticity and model coverage.
Approve the complete packing method
For the UK road leg, HSE guidance connects permitted packaging to the dangerous-goods classification. Ask the forwarder to approve a packing specification for each transport leg before the factory orders cartons. Have it identify the required inner protection, outer packaging, closure method, marks and labels, and whether packaging certification evidence is needed.
Include photographs showing terminal insulation, separation from conductive items, restraint against movement and protection against accidental operation of equipment. Photograph the closed package and any pallet wrapping too. Ask the forwarder to check that wrapping leaves the required marks visible. A photograph of an empty carton does not show how the batteries are protected.
Send a consistent acceptance file
Send the forwarder a single indexed file containing the battery specification, model-matched test summaries, SDS, packing specification, packing photographs and draft shipment documents. Include battery quantities by package, battery net mass, package gross mass, dimensions, shipper and consignee details, and a contact who can answer technical questions.
Ask which dangerous-goods declaration or transport document is needed, who prepares and signs it, and what remains outstanding. Reconcile the descriptions and quantities across the invoice, packing list and acceptance file. Our customs document guide covers the separate customs paperwork.
Release only against written acceptance
Ask for written confirmation identifying the carrier, route, accepted battery models, packing arrangement and outstanding conditions. For air freight, ask the forwarder to specify any applicable charge-state condition and how the factory should record it. Include onward UK delivery in the acceptance request.
Keep the accepted file with the booking and final packing photographs. If the battery model, quantities, packaging, transport mode or carrier changes, send the revised file for review before collection. Cambridge China Bridge's staff in China can help gather factory evidence and check the packed goods against the agreed specification.
Frequently asked questions
Is an SDS enough to ship lithium batteries?
Send the SDS alongside the model-matched transport test summary and packing evidence. Ask the forwarder to confirm its complete acceptance checklist before collection.
Can I use a test summary for a similar battery?
Ask for evidence tied to the supplied cell and pack. If model names differ, obtain a documented explanation and have the forwarder review it before booking.
Does a battery installed in equipment need checking?
Yes. Tell the forwarder it is installed, identify any loose spares separately, and submit the battery specification and packing arrangement for review.
When should I request carrier acceptance?
Before committing to packaging and collection. Obtain written acceptance for the actual models, quantities, route and packing arrangement, then resubmit any changes.