Battery Shipping Logistics: A Guide for Shipping
This overview examines key logistical factors for transporting major battery technologies, including lead-acid, lithium-ion, nickel
If you are shipping domestically within Canada, we would look at Packing Instruction 801 in the TP14850. Here it says that the lead acid batteries may be handled, offered for transport, or transported in a non-UN Standardized container if the dangerous goods are placed in a rigid container, wooden slatted crate, or on a pallet.
Per the 49CFR 173.159, lead acid batteries must be packaged in a manner to prevent a dangerous evolution of heat and short circuits. This would include, when practicable, packaging the battery in fully enclosed packaging made of non-conductive material, and ensuring terminals aren't exposed.
Lead-acid batteries fall in the UN class 8 (corrosive) and hold the HS code 8507.10 for lead-acid starter batteries. They are widely used in vehicles and backup power systems. Common lead-acid types are starter batteries, deep cycle batteries, and VRLA (valve-regulated lead acid) batteries.
Similarly, the IMDG code sets out similar requirements at Packing instruction P801 when you are shipping internationally by Sea. Using UN packaging would also be acceptable to ship lead acid batteries within Canada as well as by Sea internationally. If you are shipping internationally by air, we would look in IATA at Packing instruction 870.
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