Finding out can lithium batteries be shipped by air always seems to lead to conflicting sources of information. We’re now going to put this right by connecting you with everything you need to know.
Using our freight forwarding experts to help with secure lithium battery shipping is also a smart strategic move. They will guide you through all the latest rules and regulations. This is essential when you consider the rapid expansion of rechargeable technology. We’re here to help you get the basics right when it’s time to grow fast.
Why do we need to ship lithium batteries by air?
Researching whether lithium-ion batteries can be shipped by air has become an increasingly pressing problem. This is because of the exponential growth of rechargeable technology over the last decade. Electric vehicles are leading the charge in this respect and may soon grow even faster. When the world moves away from petrol and embraces battery power, batteries need to be shipped without delay.
More and more manufacturers across a wide variety of industries now need to ship lithium batteries fast. The growth of their businesses and market sectors is only one reason. Many high-tech manufacturers use the just-in-time fulfillment system pioneered by Toyota. The core principle is that you can reduce stock levels and storage overheads by only holding the bare minimum. You have everything needed to make your next couple of items and nothing more. Everything else just continually arrives at the factory just in time.
If you want to move key parts of your supply chain to the just-in-time model, you will need to learn about expediting lithium battery shipping, so air freight is the choice. Diving into the complex world of shipping and customs regulations is our next port of call.
What regulations are there for shipping lithium batteries by air?
If you want to know if lithium batteries can be shipped by air, look at the laws surrounding it. For instance, learn about relevant international regulations of UN3480 & 3481 in 2025.
We know you are busy trying to run your business, so here are the key points you need to know about:
- Anyone looking to ship lithium batteries in the air should know they are “Class 9 miscellaneous dangerous goods”
- This is a dynamic and continually evolving categorization — the UN may revise that up or down with an updated regulation
- You cannot appeal against the categorization, regardless of what the batteries will power
Trying to ship lithium batteries today without someone who can interpret the legalese for you is not a good idea. Do not make the mistake of thinking that you can save time and money by cutting corners. This will inevitably lead to delays or customs seizures a little further down the line. It will be costly and time-consuming to put right, and certainly not conducive to running your business.
Is it dangerous to ship lithium batteries by air?
There are certainly dangers you need to know about. If you want to know can lithium-ion batteries can be shipped by air, we need to look at specifically how they operate.
All forms of secure lithium battery shipping must pay careful attention to the packaging used. If one or more Li batteries come into close contact with one another, they can short-circuit. This means that all the electrical power is dumped out of the batteries. Excess energy becomes heat, potentially igniting the packaging or damaging neighboring batteries. The real problem here is that it can cause a snowball effect. What starts as two batteries that were improperly insulated from one another can have catastrophic consequences.
The other issue when shipping lithium batteries by air is the potential for thermal runaway. Unlike the durable AA batteries we all use at home, Li batteries need very careful handling. This is because they have a highly complex internal circuit that allows them to be fully rechargeable. Dropping or shaking the batteries will damage the circuitry and could cause fires or ignitions. Poor packaging, improper handling, and inadequate storage could each cause these types of issues.
Is it safe to ship lithium-ion batteries by air?
Yes, provided you hire someone like Foresmart who understands the finer points of safe lithium battery shipping. Organizations like the International Air Transport Association (IATA) are actively promoting higher safety standards. There is a common misconception that expediting lithium battery shipping by taking to the air is not safe. This has come about because of poor practices in the past. We will make sure good practices extend long into the future.
These are the four key steps that govern how we approach this highly specialist form of air freight:
- We actively raise awareness of potential risks and relevant regulations at all times — we want you to understand and see the big picture
- We push for strict enforcement at all stages of the logistics and supply chain — we want you to ship with true peace of mind
- We will always learn from recent accidents and developments in the wider industry — we want you to enjoy best-in-class delivery
Something as simple as connecting with the experts will make sure you never fall foul of outdated information. Just a few years ago, many people would tell you there was no need for fire-resistant containers. Today, they’re commonplace across the entire aviation industry. It just goes to show how fast things can change when the right people come together.
What to consider when shipping lithium-ion batteries by air?
If you want to see can lithium-ion batteries can be shipped by air, there are a few key things you will need to consider. Any business or entrepreneur looking to ship lithium batteries today should examine this list carefully:
- Consider the SoC:
The state of charge is a measure of how much energy the Li battery has prior to being loaded onto the plane. 0% means it is empty, 100% that it is full. Because of the complex technology inside, leaving them at 0% can damage the battery. The IATA recommends keeping the SoC to only 30%. This reduces the stored energy that can be discharged while protecting the batteries from degradation.
- Optimize the labeling:
All Class 9 miscellaneous dangerous goods have to be clearly and accurately labeled. You must declare the make and model of the battery, the weight, and the dimensions. The capacity (how much energy it can store) and the method of transport should also be on there.
- Scrutinize the packaging:
You must isolate every battery from its neighbors and from any conductive surfaces. This will prevent short circuits from emptying the batteries of all their energy and starting a fire. Batteries also have to be held securely in place so they do not experience thermal runaway because of being shaken in transit.
If you want to know more specifics about shipping lithium batteries, read this one: Shipping Lithium Batteries in 2025 | International Safe Tips
We can help with all the above to make sure that your shipment arrives safely and securely. You should also know that you are legally obliged to familiarize yourself with the regulations. Hiring a skilled forwarding partner like Foresmart will help lighten the load in more ways than one. Ideal when you want to ship lithium batteries fast with true peace of mind.
Who oversees the safe air shipping of lithium batteries?
Once you know that lithium batteries can be shipped by air, you need to dive into the details of regulation stimulated by IATA and local governments.
Look for the shipping partner approved as CEIV Li-batt handlers by the Center of Excellence for Independent Validators Lithium Batteries. This is a badge of excellence that tells you your new partner has everything covered. It is recommended when you are shipping lithium batteries by air in large quantities for the first time.
Please ask our battery shipping experts anything you would like to know about air shipping lithium batteries. We ship lithium batteries in the air many times and can guide you through everything you need to know. Foresmart can also provide full forwarding guidance for entrepreneurs making their very first shipment. When you need us, we’re always right here.
FAQs
How can I ship lithium batteries today?
Learning to ship lithium-ion batteries is no longer a matter of constantly searching for resources online. Today, our China-based team can offer fully bilingual support to anyone looking to ship lithium batteries fast. We provide full breakdowns on handling, storage, and packaging at every stage of the process. We will also provide a comprehensive forwarding service that goes door to door.
How can I get expedited lithium-ion battery shipping?
The key to fast and safe lithium battery shipping is to make sure you hire the right people from day one. We’re here whenever you need us, all so you can set the tone. We can also advise on the latest rules and regulations on a country-by-country basis. This will ensure that shipment delays don’t arise because of a simple administrative era. We make sure these types of minor issues never spiral into significant problems.
Will Li-ion battery shipping be banned?
There is no sign that secure lithium battery shipping is going to be banned in the future. Rechargeable battery technology is the foundation for the switch to EVs around the world. Exponentially increasing shipment rates will lead to tighter regulation and safer shipping. It will in no way lead to a ban being put in place.
