由 caicai8478 Batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries, are classified as Class 9 dangerous goods and are subject to strict regulations during international transportation and import/export. While regulations vary across Southeast Asian countries, the core document requirements are largely similar. The following list categorizes documents into three categories: basic general documents, battery-specific documents, and destination-specific documents, helping you secure all your “permits” in one place.
- Basic General Documents (the “identity cards” required for all goods exported)
These are standard documents for international trade, ensuring the transfer of title and basic regulatory compliance.
Commercial Invoice: This document certifies the core value and serves as the primary basis for customs duty assessment. It must clearly state the buyer and seller, description of the goods, unit price, total price, and trade terms (such as FOB, CIF, etc.).
Packing List: This document details the packaging of the goods, including the number of boxes, gross weight, net weight, volume, and packaging method, to facilitate customs inspection and customer acceptance.
Bill of Lading: This document certifies the cargo transportation contract and serves as a document of title. This is the absolutely essential document for the consignee to collect the goods. It can be divided into telex release bills of lading and original bills of lading.
Sales Contract: The legal basis for transactions between the buyer and seller, clarifying the rights and obligations of both parties.
Certificate of Origin: This is an important document certifying that the goods originate in China and qualify for preferential tariffs under the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area. Typically, a Form E certificate can be obtained, allowing customers to enjoy tariff reductions and exemptions.
II. Battery Qualification Document (“Professional Qualification Certificate” for battery products)
This is a unique and crucial document for battery products, directly determining whether the goods can be loaded onto an aircraft or ship.
MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet):
Importance: Of paramount importance! Required in almost every stage of the process. It details the battery’s chemical composition, physical properties, hazards, safe operating instructions, emergency response measures, and more.
Requirements: It must be in both Chinese and English, issued by a professional organization, and the information must be accurate. Shipping companies and airlines will strictly review the MSDS to determine the battery’s hazard level and transportation requirements.
UN38.3 Test Report:
What is it?: A safe transport test for lithium batteries, as specified in the United Nations’ Manual of Tests and Criteria for the Transport of Dangerous Goods. It simulates conditions such as altitude, temperature, vibration, shock, and short circuits that may be encountered during transport.
Mandatory: Required for both air and sea transport. This is the most essential document proving the safety and stability of lithium batteries during transport. The report is typically valid for one year (unless there are changes to the product design or materials).
Dangerous Goods Package Certificate (Outbound Dangerous Goods Transport Packaging Inspection Results):
What is it?: Issued by China Customs (formerly the Inspection and Quarantine Department), this certificate certifies that your cargo packaging (including inner and outer packaging) has been inspected and complies with the requirements of the International Maritime/Air Dangerous Goods Code.
Importance: This is generally mandatory for shipping lithium batteries by sea. Shipping companies will not accept shipments without a Dangerous Goods Package Certificate. For air shipments, requirements may vary depending on the battery type (e.g., pure electric vs. built-in battery) and airline policies, but it is highly recommended.
Application Process: You must first obtain a packaging performance sheet (provided by the packaging factory), then apply for an on-site inspection from customs. Once approved, you can obtain the permit.
III. Destination Country-Specific Documents (“Visa on Arrival” for Southeast Asian Markets)
Different Southeast Asian countries have their own entry requirements, so be sure to confirm these with your customer before shipping.
Import License:
Some Southeast Asian countries (such as Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand) require importers to apply for a license in advance for certain types of batteries (especially energy storage batteries used in the communications and energy sectors).
Responsible Party: This application is usually handled by the overseas buyer, but as the exporter, you must communicate and confirm this in advance; otherwise, customs clearance will not be possible upon arrival.
Product Certification:
To be marketed, battery products may need to comply with mandatory or voluntary certifications in the destination country.
Common Examples:
SNI Certification (Indonesia): Mandatory for many electronic and electrical products.
PSB Certification (Singapore): Safety-related certification.
Thailand’s TISI Certification, Malaysia’s SIRIM Certification, etc.
Responsible Party: This is usually handled by the importer, but the exporter must provide the necessary technical documentation.
Battery Filing/Registration:
Some countries may require the filing and registration of imported battery models for traceability and management.
Practical Process and Recommendations
Pre-Shipping:
Self-Assessment: Ensure that you have the MSDS and UN38.3 report ready.
Communicate with the Freight Forwarder: Immediately inform the freight forwarder that you are exporting batteries and provide the MSDS for pre-review. It is crucial to select a freight forwarder with extensive experience in dangerous goods handling.
Apply for a Dangerous Goods Package Certificate: Cooperate with the manufacturer and customs authorities to initiate the Dangerous Goods Package Certificate application process as soon as possible.
Confirm Customs Clearance Requirements: Confirm with the overseas customer all required import licenses, certifications, and other documents for the destination country, and include relevant responsibilities and timeframes in the contract.
Choosing a Shipping Method:
Sea freight: This is the primary method for exporting batteries, and a Dangerous Goods Package Certificate is essential. It generally requires full container load (FCL), while LCL shipments have more restrictions.
Air freight: This has the most stringent regulations, with extremely high requirements for battery capacity, packaging, and documentation, as well as higher costs. Be sure to comply with the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.
Express delivery: Small samples can be sent via DHL, FedEx, and other shipping methods, but they must be declared in advance and comply with their strict battery shipping regulations.
Summary: Your “Passport” Checklist
Document Type
File Name
Core Purpose
Responsible Party/Provider
Basic General
Commercial Invoice
Customs tax collection, proof of value
Exporter
Packing List
Goods inventory and shipping arrangements
Exporter
Bill of Lading
Document of title, basis for delivery
Shipping Company/Freight Forwarder
Certificate of Origin (e.g., Form E)
Enjoy tariff benefits
Exporter application
Battery Features
MSDS
Determines hazardous material classification and transportation safety
Exporter/Manufacturer
UN38.3 Report
Proofs battery transportation safety
Exporter/Manufacturer
Dangerous Goods Package Certificate
Proofs compliance with transport packaging
Exporter application
Destination Country Specific
Import License
Market access in the destination country
Importer
Product Certification (e.g., SNI, PSB)
Market sales authorization in the destination country
Importer (with exporter’s cooperation)
Finally, it’s important to emphasize again: The Southeast Asian market has enormous potential, but regulations are constantly evolving. Never take any chances, adhere to the principle of “documentation is king”, and maintain close communication with your freight forwarder and overseas customers. This is the golden rule to ensure the smooth export, safe arrival and successful sales of your battery products.