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Why Are These Regulatory Changes Being Implemented?
The recent regulatory changes are not just procedural updates—they are a key shift to address key safety concerns impacting global trade and logistics. Some of the main reasons behind these changes include:
Fire and Safety Risks: Lithium-ion batteries have been involved in fire incidents due to overheating or short-circuiting, which has led to stricter transport regulations to reduce risks.
Growing Demand for Battery-Powered Products: As electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy storage, and consumer electronic grow in popularity and demand the need to regulate more closely and granularly is increasing.
Forecasted Increase in Use of Sodium-Ion: While sodium-ion batteries are still in the early stages of adoption, they indicate signs of potential for a cheaper, safer alternative to lithium batteries, so now require their own regulations.
What are Sodium-Ion Batteries?
While most people are already familiar with lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries are a much newer technology that many may not have heard of yet. As they continue to develop, they are being explored as a viable alternative to lithium-ion batteries, particularly in energy storage and electric vehicles. As emerging alternative to lithium-ion technology they offer several advantages, including:
Lower Cost & Greater Availability: Sodium is far more abundant than lithium, making sodium-ion batteries cheaper and more sustainable to produce.
Similar Functionality: These batteries function similarly to lithium-ion batteries, meaning they can be used in many of the same applications, such as energy storage and electric vehicles.
Improved Safety: Sodium-ion batteries are generally considered to have a lower risk of overheating and causing a fire, making them somewhat safer for transport and use.
Evolving Regulations: While current shipping regulations for sodium-ion batteries are largely similar to those of lithium-ion batteries, standards and classifications are still developing as the technology becomes more widely adopted.
Which Regulation Changes Will Effect Businesses the Most?
Recent changes in IATA regulations have introduced stricter controls for transporting lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries. Here are the two most important changes:
Dedicated UN Numbers for Battery-Powered Vehicles
Previously, lithium battery-powered vehicles were classified under a general UN number for electric vehicles. However, the new regulations introduce dedicated UN numbers for different types of battery-powered vehicles, making classification and regulation more precise.
This update applies not only to cars but also to wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and any other battery-powered transportation devices.
There is a grace period for implementation, but the timeline can vary significantly depending on factors such as whether the vehicle is transported by air or sea. To ensure compliance with the latest regulations, it's best to check directly for the specific requirements applicable to your situation.
New Charging Restrictions for Lithium Batteries in Consumer Equipment
Previously, only lithium batteries shipped on their own had to be at 30% state of charge (SOC) or lower when transported by air. Under the new IATA regulations, this 30% charge limit now applies to lithium batteries inside consumer devices, such as laptops, cameras, and medical equipment. This change is aimed at reducing the risk of overheating or thermal runaway during air transport.
How These Changes Impact Different Industries
The updated regulations will affect various sectors in different ways, meaning businesses must adapt to ensure compliance and avoid disruptions:
Electronics & Consumer Goods: Manufacturers must now ensure that devices containing lithium-ion batteries comply with the 30% state of charge rule for air transport to ensure smooth shipping.
Automotive & EV Industry: The introduction of dedicated UN numbers for battery-powered vehicles may impact logistics and customs clearance processes. For now, it's essential to stay informed about the correct UN number for your vehicle type and keep an eye out for further updates on how these changes may affect the industry.
Medical Devices & Mobility Equipment: Wheelchairs and scooters, now classified more specifically under updated shipping codes, may have new documentation or handling requirements.
Renewable Energy Sector: As sodium-ion battery technology evolves, companies in energy storage and grid solutions may need to track changing regulations and evaluate its suitability as an alternative.
Potential Impact on Businesses & Logistics
These regulatory updates have significant potential implications for manufacturers, logistics providers, and retailers handling battery-powered devices:
Expect Potential Delays in Shipments: As new UN numbers are implemented, some shipping processes may experience disruptions. Allow for a slightly longer shipping time
Sodium-Ion as an Alternative: It may be worth considering sodium-ion batteries as a potential alternative due to their lower cost and the evolving regulatory landscape. Since their regulatory requirements are largely similar to those of lithium-ion batteries, staying up to date with these guidelines could help ensure a smooth transition if adoption increases.
Regulatory Compliance: It's essential to check with manufacturers about the State of Charge (SOC) of your batteries and ensure that both you and your forwarders are fully updated and aware of the correct UN numbers for the goods you're transporting. If a grace period applies, determine the specific timeline for your business and take the necessary steps to meet compliance requirements before the deadline. This will help ensure a smooth transition and avoid potential disruptions in your supply chain.
The Importance of Finding the Right Logistics Partner
The latest updates from IATA and other regulatory bodies highlight ongoing efforts to enhance battery transportation safety. Whether dealing with lithium-ion or sodium-ion batteries, staying informed about regulatory changes is essential for maintaining smooth and compliant shipping operations. This applies to all regulatory updates—keeping up to date helps you avoid complications, stockouts, and lost revenue.
That’s why choosing the right logistics partner is essential. Whether it’s air freight or land transport, international or domestic, Speedy Freight does it all.
We have specialist vehicles and the necessary licences for ADR transport, ensuring the safe and compliant transportation of hazardous goods, including batteries and other regulated materials.
But we don’t just offer specialist vehicles with the licences to match—we provide cost-effective pricing, a fast, reliable service, and industry-leading expertise. Our experienced team is fully equipped to handle any queries or concerns, ensuring your shipments remain fully compliant with all regulations. With clear communication and real-time updates, you can have complete peace of mind knowing your logistics operations are in expert hands.
