Core Principle: Safety and Compliance are the Only Standards
Any侥幸心理 (a sense of complacency or taking chances) or violations can lead to hefty fines, cargo destruction, transportation delays, and even serious safety incidents. The following considerations are the lifeline for ensuring smooth transportation.
I. Classification and Identification: The Cornerstone of All Operations
Accurate classification is paramount.
Cargo Containing Batteries: It is essential to clearly distinguish between types such as lithium-ion batteries (UN3480, UN3481) and lithium metal batteries (UN3090, UN3091).
Cargo Containing Liquids: The hazard classification (e.g., flammable liquids Class 3, corrosive liquids Class 8) and corresponding UN number must be determined according to the MSDS.
Gold Standard: For uncertain cargo, a Certificate of Cargo Transport Conditions is mandatory. This is the most authoritative compliance basis.
Strictly Prohibited: Concealment, Misreporting, and Omission
Declaring dangerous goods as ordinary cargo is absolutely forbidden. This is the most severely punished act by major carriers, resulting in hefty fines and being blacklisted.
II. Packaging Protection: The Lifeline of Safe Transportation
UN-certified packaging must be used.
The outer packaging must have a clear UN marking (e.g., 4G/X…). Ordinary cardboard boxes/foam boxes are strictly prohibited.
Strictly adhere to internal protection specifications.
Electrically Charged Goods:
Short-circuit protection: All battery electrodes must be insulated (e.g., with rubber caps).
Movement prevention: Batteries must be securely fastened within the packaging to prevent shaking and collisions during transport.
Liquid Goods:
Leak prevention: The inner packaging must be properly sealed (passing an inversion test).
Leak absorption: Sufficient absorbent material must be used to fill all gaps to ensure complete absorption of any leaked liquid.
III. Marking and Labeling: Identification of Goods
Labels must be correct, clear, and securely attached.
Electrically Charged Goods: Lithium battery markings (black border, white background, including UN number) and Class 9 dangerous goods labels must be affixed.
Liquid Goods: The corresponding hazard label (e.g., Class 3 flammable liquid label) and “Upside Down” label must be affixed.
All labels must be affixed to a prominent position on the packaging box and must be durable and not easily detached.
IV. Document Declaration: Legal Guarantee for Compliant Customs Clearance
Documents must be complete and accurate.
Core Document: Dangerous Goods Declaration Form completed and signed by a certified personnel.
Key Attachments:
Lithium batteries must be accompanied by a UN 38.3 test summary.
It is recommended that all goods be accompanied by an MSDS.
Document information must be completely consistent with the actual goods.
Advance Booking is Essential
Documents must be submitted to the carrier (airline/shipping company) in advance (5-7 working days is recommended) to apply for dangerous goods space. Ordinary cargo space cannot accept dangerous goods.
V. Comprehensive Control: A Protective Network for Risk Mitigation
Ensuring Customs Clearance Capacity at the Port of Destination
Confirm in advance that the consignee has the qualifications and capabilities to import this type of dangerous goods and that all customs clearance documents (including dangerous goods documents) have been provided to them.
Develop and be familiar with emergency response plans.
Warehouse and operational personnel must understand emergency handling procedures for situations such as battery fires and liquid leaks, and be equipped with appropriate fire-fighting and emergency equipment.
Choose a professional logistics partner.
Partnering with experienced and fully qualified freight forwarders or courier companies in the field of dangerous goods transportation can provide crucial professional guidance and support.
Summary: Compliant classification is the prerequisite, standardized packaging is the core, accurate documentation is key, and comprehensive control is the guarantee. Remember these four points and implement them in every operational detail to ensure the smooth flow of your goods containing batteries/liquids in international logistics.