1. What category of hazardous goods do lithium batteries belong to? What certifications are required for export?

According to the United Nations' "Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods," lithium batteries are classified asClass 9 Dangerous Goods(Miscellaneous hazardous substances). The latest export requirements for 2025 include:

• UN38.3 Test Certification (covering 8 tests including vibration, shock, high temperature, etc.)
• MSDS Chemical Safety Data Sheet
• Transportation Declaration Document (must specify parameters such as watt-hour rating, lithium content, etc.)
• Supplementary certifications required by certain destination countries:
  • EU CE Certification (including RoHS Directive)
  • US UL certification
  • Japan PSE certification

II.Maritime transportWhat transportation regulations should be particularly noted for lithium batteries?

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG CODE) 2025 Edition clearly stipulates:

• The state of charge must not exceed 30% (SOC ≤ 30%).
• The container must be affixed with a Class 9 hazardous material label.
• It is prohibited to transport in combination with Class 1 explosives.
• Each shipment must be provided.Short-circuit proof

III. Lithium BatteryExport ClearanceWhat are the common challenges?

According to customs statistics from 2023 to 2025, the return rate for lithium battery export declarations reached as high as 18.7%, with the main issues concentrated in:

• Incorrect classification of commodity code (it is recommended to adopt the sub-codes under item 8507.60.00).
• The declaration elements are incomplete (must include 7 parameters such as rated energy and the number of individual cells).
• The transport packaging does not comply with the UN3480/UN3481 standards.
• Incorrectly filled out the electronic manifest for dangerous goods.

IV. How to Choose a Reliable Lithium BatteryExport Agent Services?

Professional agents should possess the following qualifications and capabilities:

• Hold the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA) certification.
• Qualified for the transportation of dangerous goods (DGR certified)
• Familiarize yourself with the lithium battery shipping policies of major shipping companies:
  • Maersk's Lithium Battery Transportation Surcharge Standards
  • Special container configuration requirements of COSCO SHIPPING
• Provide end-to-end compliance solutions (from factory inspection to customs clearance at the destination port).

5. Do lithium battery exports require special insurance coverage?

It is recommended to take out insuranceComprehensive Insurance for Dangerous Goods Transportation, special attention is required:

• Additional Spontaneous Combustion Insurance Clause (premium typically increases by 30-50%)
• Clarify the temperature control requirements in the deductible clause.
• Request the insurance company to provide IMDG compliance certification.

6. What are the latest policy changes for lithium battery exports in 2025?

Key policy trends that require close attention include:

• The newly implemented EU "Batteries and Waste Batteries Regulation" (effective from February 2025)
• U.S. Customs' Carbon Footprint Traceability Requirements for Lithium Battery Importers
• The "white list" system for lithium battery exports implemented by the General Administration of Customs of China.

7. What are the common reasons for customs clearance detention of goods overseas and the corresponding countermeasures?

According to 2024,International LogisticsDispute case database analysis reveals that the high-frequency reasons for cargo detention include:

• Failed to pass the energy efficiency certification of the destination country (such as Korea's KC certification).
• The shipping documents do not indicate the UN number.
• Incomplete supply chain due diligence investigation report was provided.
• Recommended solutions:
  • Apply in advance for AEO mutual recognition enterprise qualification.
  • Prepare multilingual technical documents (at least in English, Spanish, and French).
  • Establish an emergency customs clearance guarantee system

8. How to Control the Comprehensive Cost of Lithium Battery Exports?

The following methods can reduce operational costs by 15-20%:

• Optimize packaging solutions (using UN-certified reusable packaging)
• Select cost-effective transportation routes (e.g.,China-Europe Railway ExpressLithium Battery Special Train)
• Leverage tariff preferences under free trade agreements (RCEP member states can enjoy an 8-12% tariff reduction).
• Implement the centralized declaration model (monthly declarations can save 30% on customs clearance fees).

(Note: This article is based on the author's 20 years of practical experience in international trade. For specific operations, please refer to the latest regulations and customs interpretations. Regarding the 2025 policy predictions, it is recommended to verify the latest information through the official website of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade.)