Can cargo with electrical charges be transported by sea? UN3480 Certification and Declaration Process (Sharing Knowledge on International Sea Freight of Dry Goods)

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2025-11-28 17:58

Electrified goods can be transported by sea, but compliance procedures must be followed in accordance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code), taking into account the type of electrification of the cargo (such as lithium batteries or battery-powered equipment) and its hazardous characteristics. Specifically, UN3480 refers to lithium-ion battery packs (including polymer lithium-ion batteries), which are classified as Class 9 dangerous goods and require completion of dedicated certification and declaration procedures before they can be transported.

　　UN3480 Certification Processing Procedure

　　The core of UN3480 certification lies in passing the UN 38.3 test and obtaining the relevant certification documents. The specific steps are as follows:

　　Confirm product information: Clearly specify the model, capacity, voltage, cell type, and other parameters of the lithium-ion battery pack. Distinguish whether the batteries are individual units or part of a complete set of equipment. Confirm that the shipping method is by sea.

　　Select a certified laboratory: Choose laboratories that are accredited according to ISO/IEC 17025 and recognized by international transportation authorities, such as the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology, Huace Testing (CTI), and TÜV Rheinland.

　　Submission of Test Samples and Documentation: Provide 12–24 brand-new, fully charged battery samples, along with documentation such as battery specification sheets, circuit diagrams, and manufacturer information. If the batteries are already installed in a device, please provide a complete sample of the entire device.

　　Completion of UN 38.3 Testing: The laboratory will conduct eight tests according to the standard, including altitude simulation, temperature cycling, vibration, impact, external short circuit, compression, overcharge (for rechargeable batteries), and forced discharge (for non-rechargeable batteries). The testing period is approximately 3 to 6 weeks.

　　Obtaining the Test Report and Certificate of Conformity: After passing the test, the laboratory will issue a UN 38.3 Test Summary Report (TSR). With this report, you can apply to the customs or maritime authorities for a “Certificate of Conformity for Cargo Transportation Conditions,” clearly indicating information such as the UN3480 identification number and packaging category.

　　Perform packaging certification: Use UN-certified packaging boxes that meet Class II packaging standards, and apply to the inspection and quarantine authorities for the “Certificate of Inspection Result for the Use of Hazardous Goods Packaging” to demonstrate that the packaging complies with regulations.

　　UN3480 Lithium Battery Ocean Shipping Declaration Procedure

　　Book the space in advance: 7–10 days before the cargo is loaded into the container, prepare documents such as the English-language MSDS, a scanned copy of the hazardous packaging certificate, the ocean freight consignment note for dangerous goods, and the shipper’s hazardous materials form. Submit these documents to the shipping line for review. After passing the review, obtain the space confirmation (pre-allocation list).

　　Hazardous Goods Declaration: Before submitting the hazard declaration, provide the container number, packing list, letter of authorization for declaration, a scanned copy of the original hazardous packaging certificate, and an English-language MSDS to the declarant. After completing the declaration, obtain the “Port Hazardous Cargo Operation Declaration Form” (electronic yellow copy).

　　Compliant Packaging and Labeling: Pack lithium batteries according to the instructions for PI 965–PI 968 in the IMDG Code, taking adequate measures to prevent short circuits. Affix a Class 9 hazardous materials label, a UN3480 identification label, as well as the shipper’s name and emergency contact phone number on the outside of the packaging box.

　　Export customs clearance: Prepare the customs declaration form, power of attorney for customs clearance, packing list, invoice, and declaration elements, and submit them to the customs broker. For the Outer Port of Shanghai, you must enter the port first and then complete customs clearance; for Yangshan Port, you need to complete customs clearance first and then enter the port.

　　Shipment by vessel: After the goods have been cleared and released, the terminal arranges for loading onto the vessel. Upon arrival at the port, the consignee collects the goods by presenting the ocean bill of lading to exchange it for a delivery order and completing customs clearance.

　　It should be noted that if the lithium battery has a small capacity (≤20 Wh per cell, ≤100 Wh per battery pack), it may be eligible for the SP 188 exemption. However, an assessment certificate is still required, and the packaging and labeling requirements remain unchanged.

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