Learn how to ship lithium batteries safely and securely

FedEx takes the transport of your shipment containing lithium batteries very seriously and complies with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulations for shipping such items. We want to ensure that you are aware of all the requirements in shipping these products and help you to overcome any challenges or obstacles you may face.

Lithium batteries, which are commonly used in devices such as mobile phones, laptops, PDAs, watches, cameras and children’s toys, are classified as dangerous goods since charged battery shipments may overheat and ignite under certain conditions. Therefore at FedEx we implement measures so your shipments containing lithium batteries are correctly handled from when they are given to FedEx at the origin to when they are delivered to their final destination.

Being classed as dangerous goods, when shipped, lithium batteries must be correctly identified and classified, and in some cases be packaged, marked, labeled and accompanied by a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods. FedEx provides advice on the required documentation, labeling and preapproval process for the specific category of lithium battery you plan to ship. Please click here to find out more and/ or contact your local FedEx Customer Service Center.

When shipping a package containing lithium batteries, strong rigid outer packaging, must be used and, depending on the type of lithium batteries, additional markings and labelling may also be required. FedEx Paks cannot be used as outer packaging for lithium batteries, however FedEx branded boxes or tubes may be used as outer packaging for lithium batteries prepared under Section II of the relevant packing instruction of the IATA DG Regulations. Please click here for further details and guidelines on preparing and packaging shipments containing lithium batteries.

Finally, it is important to ensure that when preparing shipments containing lithium batteries that the batteries are not in any way defective, damaged, or have the potential to produce a dangerous evolution of heat, fire or short circuit.

At FedEx, we are committed to effectively transporting your shipments containing lithium batteries. Please feel free to contact your Sales Representative or your local Customer Service Center if you have any additional questions or concerns.