Corporate Moving — Lithium battery regulations and their impact on global shipments

Santa Fe Relocation continuously monitors global regulatory developments to provide accurate guidance on the transportation of lithium batteries in corporate moving. While rules may vary by country, best practices ensure compliance and risk mitigation. Due to recent safety incidents and increased scrutiny, global authorities have implemented stricter measures that affect corporate moves and supply chains. This article outlines key regulations and Santa Fe’s recommendations to help businesses navigate these evolving requirements.

Heightened restrictions and compliance requirements

Recent regulatory changes have introduced significant restrictions on lithium battery shipments:

• South Korea (February 2025): Following a fire linked to a power bank that destroyed an Air Busan aircraft, passengers must carry power banks and e-cigarettes on their person rather than in overhead bins. Charging these devices during flights is strictly prohibited. Airlines have also imposed stricter limits on battery quantity and strength.
• United States (October 2024): A truck carrying lithium-ion batteries overturned near the Port of Los Angeles, sparking a fire that disrupted port operations for days. The incident underscored the fire risks associated with lithium batteries in transit.
• China (Upcoming review): Authorities are evaluating new import regulations for recycled lithium batteries, which could introduce additional compliance requirements for shipments containing these items.

Shipping lithium batteries: what you need to know

Santa Fe Relocation strongly advises businesses to avoid shipping lithium-ion batteries where possible. However, if batteries must be included, strict compliance measures are necessary:

1. Classification and risk assessment
   • Lithium-ion batteries exceeding 100Wh must NOT be packed for removal or storage under any circumstances.
   • Batteries below 100Wh may be transported if they meet safety and packaging requirements.
2. Packing and storage guidelines
   • Physical condition: All batteries and battery-powered devices must be free of physical defects or damage.
   • Separation: Batteries must not be stacked in boxes—proper spacing is required to allow air circulation.
   • Charge level: Batteries should be 50-60% charged for storage and transit, per manufacturer guidelines.
   • Packaging: Original manufacturer’s packaging is preferred to protect batteries during transport.
   • Quantity limit: No more than five items containing lithium-ion batteries should be packed together.
   • Labeling & declaration: Failure to properly declare lithium-ion batteries may result in severe penalties, potential shipment confiscation, or delays.
3. Air freight restrictionsAs of January 1, 2025, IATA recommends that lithium-ion batteries be shipped at no more than 30% state of charge under the following classifications:
   • UN 3481: Lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment
   • UN 3481: Lithium-ion batteries contained in equipment
   • UN 3556: Vehicle, lithium-ion battery poweredAirlines maintain final discretion over the acceptance of lithium-ion batteries in household goods shipments. Businesses should verify carrier-specific rules before planning air freight moves
4. Sea & road freight restrictions 

   Shipping lines may require hazardous cargo declarations, leading to additional surcharges and longer booking times. Some carriers do not accept lithium batteries at all. Businesses should seek confirmation before including such items in a shipment.

What this means for corporate moving

With lithium battery safety under increasing scrutiny, businesses moving goods internationally should expect heightened compliance requirements.

Companies shipping battery-powered devices, including e-bikes, laptops, and power tools, must ensure full compliance with local and international transport regulations. Misdeclarations can result in fines, shipment confiscation, or significant delays.

Santa Fe Relocation advises businesses to work closely with relocation providers to ensure lithium battery shipments meet all safety and regulatory standards.

Contact us

For further guidance and expert support in managing lithium battery shipments, please contact your Santa Fe consultant.

Filip Leibl
Group Operations Manager
Santa Fe Relocation
filip.leibl@santaferelo.com

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