Industry News

Source: Hazmat University, Bureau of Dangerous Goods 
If it feels like “new year, another new lithium battery rule," that’s because it is.  As lithium battery technology changes and more is learned from battery incidents, the regulations are bound to change to keep battery shipments safe during transport. 

The most important thing to understand about safely shipping lithium batteries by air is that compliance is king. Whether you’re working directly in the Dangerous Goods (DG) world or not, it’s critical to stay up to date with the ever-changing regulations that surround lithium batteries. 

This year’s big change is in the International Air Transport Association Dangerous Goods Regulations (IATA DGR) as it relates to shipping "small," standalone lithium batteries by air.  The big change? Section II was removed from packing instructions 965 and 968 for standalone lithium batteries.   

New Regulations for the Air Shipping of Lithium Batteries Effective 4/1/2022:
In the 63rd Edition (2022) of the IATA DGR, Section II was removed from packing instructions 965 and 968 for standalone batteries. The result is that all shipments of “small,” standalone lithium batteries by air will require the Class 9 label, Cargo Aircraft Only label, lithium battery marking, UN number, and Proper Shipping Name marking and the preparation of a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods.

Below are two helpful documents developed by IATA that break down the new regulations:

As always, BTX Global Logistics' knowledgeable representatives are available to help you with any shipping and compliance-related questions, contact us. 

BTX Global Logistics is a full-service shipping and logistics organization known for providing reliable, flexible solutions to its customers. BTX's services include expedited shipping, air freight, ground freight, sea freight, white glove, trade show, customs brokerage, ecommerce and fulfillment and more.