Did you know ? Why do we need to be careful about sending our tablets and batteries ?
There are nine classes of dangerous goods, and it is important to know which products are included in each of them. For example, in our case, our tablets are concerned by class 9 (miscellaneous hazardous materials and objects), the identification number is UN3481 (for batteries packed with the tablet or inserted directly inside) and UN3080 (for batteries only). These identification numbers and these identification numbers and section are also determined according to the power of the batteries that, in our cases, don’t exceed 100 Wh.
In order to comply with the laws and safety standards, it is essential, particularly for companies to respect the regulations in force, of the IATA (International Air Transport Association), when shipping these materials.
Every dangerous good falls under one or more specific types of hazards and has a number called “ONU number” (international identification number) which must appear on each package preceded by the letters “UN” and a customs code (HS CODE).
The lithium (Ion) which is often contained in batteries, has a higher risk of overheating and of ignition during transport. Therefore, it is considered a hazardous material. When taking over the goods, it is imperative to take into account the power, the packaging, but also the destination of these in order to respect the safety standards of each country.
Concerning battery shipments, in addition to the marking on the package, it is necessary to obtain a certificate from the manufacturer (MSDS: Material Safety Data Sheet) with contains essential information about the transport, safety instructions in case of fire or incident. Indeed, in terms of transportation, it is possible to do it by air or sea. Maritime cost are lower, but much longer, and this, despite the authorizations and certifications of the manufacturers.
For all these international shipments, it is often necessary for customs, to affix a folder on the packages, containing the documents on the goods. The contents of this folder are in accordance with the criteria of each country, it is essential to inform you before shipping. What can differ are often the customs taxes (despite an identical HS Code), depending on the country of destination, European Union or not.
For example, Ireland, yet a member of the European Union, has specific regulations for the transport of lithium. During a shipment, we had to put the mention “ELB” on the packing slip, which means that our batteries are packed or contained in our tablets (mention UN3481).
For maximum efficiency when shipping “dangerous” materials such as lithium batteries, please make sure you are well-informed before shipping your goods.
Read our blog post on e-waste management below :