How to Transport Batteries

Most countries set strict rules for transporting lead acid batteries. Failure to comply with the regulations is a civil or criminal offense that can result in stiff penalties for the carrier and/or the shipper. The rules are simple, well established and make common sense.

• The vehicle transporting batteries can carry only one type of hazardous material. Brace the batteries securely to prevent damage and short circuits in transit. Non-hazardous goods on the same vehicle must be secured to prevent damaging the batteries.
• Batteries must be stacked upright, pole side outwards, and placed on a wooden pallet. Place honeycomb cardboard between the layers and limit the stack to three layers on a single pallet. Wrap the package several times with shrink-wrap.
• Identify hazardous material with labels marked “Corrosive” using the appropriate symbols and colors. Stickers must conform to regulatory specifications.
• Mark all packages, e.g., batteries, wet, filled with acid, identification number (UN 2794).
• Provide a bill of lading document that includes the name of the company and shipper, contents of package, description of hazardous material and shipper’s certification.
• When shipping by air, restrict the weight per package to 25kg gross (55lb) on passenger air carriers. There is no limit on the number of packages per flight.

Different rules apply when shipping damaged batteries. A lead acid battery is considered damaged if there is a possibility of leakage due to a crack or if one or more caps are missing. Transportation companies and air carriers may require that the batteries be drained of all acid prior to transport. Place damaged batteries in an acid-resistant container and add soda ash to neutralize any acid that might spill. Separate damaged and intact batteries.