Shipping items that contain electric batteries—especially lithium batteries—from China to Antigua & Barbuda requires specialized handling, correct documentation, and compliance with international dangerous goods regulations. Lithium batteries are classified as hazardous materials, which means they cannot be shipped the same way as regular cargo.
At China2Dadli, we assist customers shipping everything from power tools and laptops to e-bikes, solar batteries, and portable power stations. If your goods contain a battery, this guide explains the requirements and the additional costs associated with shipping them safely.
Why Lithium Batteries Are Considered Hazardous
Lithium batteries store a high amount of energy in a compact size. If mishandled, damaged, or poorly packaged, they can become unstable. This instability may lead to overheating, fires, explosions, or damage to surrounding cargo.
Because sea containers travel long distances and experience high temperatures, strict regulations exist to ensure safety throughout the shipping process.
Required Documents for Lithium Battery Shipments
To ship lithium batteries or items containing them, all hazardous materials documentation must be provided. This includes:
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MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)
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Transportation Report
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UN38.3 Test Report
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Dangerous Goods Packaging Certificate
These documents verify the battery’s safety, testing history, and compliance with international shipping standards. Shipments missing documentation cannot be accepted.
DG Containers vs. Regular Containers
Lithium batteries and battery-powered devices cannot be loaded into normal freight containers. They must be placed into Dangerous Goods (DG) containers, which are designed and certified for hazardous cargo.
DG containers involve:
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Additional inspections
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Specialized labeling
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Higher safety requirements
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Extra documentation and administrative work
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Specific handling procedures at the port and during transit
Not every container we send is a DG container, so planning in advance is important.
Higher Shipping Costs for Battery-Powered Goods
Because lithium batteries must travel in DG containers, the cost structure is different from standard sea freight.
DG shipments generally have higher costs due to:
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DG container fees
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Hazardous cargo declarations
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Extra port handling charges
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Specialized packaging requirements
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Safety inspections and documentation reviews
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Additional compliance procedures
These costs help ensure that your goods travel safely and in accordance with international regulations. Every package is assessed individually, so pricing can vary based on the size of the item, the battery type, watt-hours, and the number of units being shipped.
Customers should contact us directly for a quote tailored to their specific goods and requirements.
Items That Require Special Handling
You must notify us in advance if you plan to ship items that contain batteries such as:
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Solar batteries and power stations
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E-bikes and electric scooters
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UPS backup systems
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Power tools
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Laptop, phone, and camera batteries
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Car batteries
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Drones
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Vapes and e-cigarette devices
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Rechargeable electronics of all kinds
Even small devices may fall under DG regulations depending on their battery chemistry and manufacturer.
Why Documentation and Communication Matter
Proper DG documentation ensures:
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Smooth customs clearance
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Placement into the correct type of container
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Compliance with maritime safety regulations
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Avoidance of delays, rejections, or fines
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Protection of your goods and other customers’ cargo
Failure to provide correct documents can result in your cargo being held, delayed, or refused for shipment.
Contact Us Before Shipping Battery-Powered Goods
If you plan to ship lithium batteries or any items that contain electric batteries, contact us before purchasing or sending your products. We will guide you through:
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Required documentation
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DG classification
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Shipping cost estimates
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Packaging requirements
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Container scheduling and availability
Battery shipments involve specialized handling and additional complications. By contacting us in advance, we can ensure your item is shipped safely, legally, and without unnecessary delays.
