There are strict laws and guidelines when it comes to the buying, storing and disposing of batteries as they contain hazardous chemicals and can even overheat. So what are the rules when it comes to shipping them? Some batteries are prohibited from shipping whilst others have certain restrictions placed upon them. This article takes a brief look at the rules surrounding shipping batteries overseas and posting domestically.
AA/AAA batteries
The following guidelines apply to both the domestic and international postage of basic household batteries made from alkaline, nickel metal hydride (NiMH) or nickel cadmium (NiCd) such as AA or AAA batteries. These batteries must not be sent within appliances and can only ever be new and in their original packaging. Ensure you wrap each packet of batteries in their own additional protective bubble wrap. Any package that contains new household batteries such as these should have the sender’s name and address clearly marked on the outside of the package.
Lithium ion/polymer batteries
Lithium ion or polymer are more lightweight and smaller than alkaline or nickel batteries so they are becoming commonplace, but they are potentially more hazardous and can overheat or worse, explode. This means that you should never ship more than two in one package, and unlike AA or AAA, they should be left INSIDE the appliance (such as a laptop) that they are designed for. Make sure this appliance is turned off.
Wet or spillable lead acid and lead alkaline batteries such as car batteries, damaged batteries and used alkaline or nickel batteries can neither be posted domestically or shipped internationally.
As well as the above, all batteries being shipped abroad will need to be sent with a Safety Data Sheet (SDS). You can get the information to fill out this sheet from the battery manufacturer’s site. If you need to send batteries in a hurry and you are not sure what to do, find a same day courier service in Birmingham such as http://allaboutfreight.co.uk/same-day-courier-service/same-day-courier-birmingham, who will not only help with shipping your product but also give advice about what you can and can’t send.
Always remember that batteries contain potential harmful chemicals and some have the risk of overheating and even causing fires. Always speak to your courier about what you are sending before you arrange for it to be picked up.