Shipping Your Electric Bike Internationally: A Step-By-Step Guide

Shipping an electric bike internationally can be a complicated process. The lithium batteries in electric bikes are classified as hazardous materials, which means they present chemical and electrical hazards and run the risk of overheating and igniting under certain conditions. This means that the shipper must be IATA certified and the battery must be properly labelled. There are also restrictions on taking electric bike batteries on flights. One option is to use a specialist shipper such as Bikeflights, which can ship class 1 e-bikes and batteries.

Shipping by air

Shipping an electric bike by air requires careful consideration of the battery. Lithium batteries are classified as Class 9 hazardous materials by the US DOT, due to the chemical and electrical hazards they present. They are flammable and run the risk of overheating and igniting under certain conditions.

To ship an electric bike by air, you must use a hazmat-certified shipper. The shipper must also be IATA certified. Proper labelling is required, and this includes the hazardous material UN number (UN3480).

You can use a website like bikeflights.com to find a certified shipper.

It is worth noting that some airlines do not allow electric bike batteries to be included on flights.

Shipping by sea

Electric bikes can be shipped internationally, but it's important to note that their batteries are classified as hazardous materials. This is because lithium batteries present chemical and electrical hazards, and run the risk of overheating and igniting under certain conditions.

When shipping by sea, it's best to find a local shipping broker who can help provide you with a freight carrier and rate for your shipment. They will be able to advise on the correct labelling and packaging required for the bike and its battery.

It's also worth noting that some retailers may not disclose the battery information required to ship the bike, so it's important to do your research and be aware of the specific requirements for shipping lithium batteries by sea.

Proper labelling

The shipper must also be IATA certified, which allows the battery to be shipped by air. This certification ensures that the shipper is qualified to handle and transport hazardous materials.

It is important to note that the labelling requirements may vary depending on the country of origin and destination, as well as the specific carrier used for transportation. It is always best to check with the carrier beforehand to ensure that all necessary labelling requirements are met.

In addition to the hazardous material identification and shipper certification, there may be other specific labelling requirements for electric bike batteries. These could include the size and weight of the battery, as well as any special handling instructions. It is important to work with a qualified and experienced shipper who can guide you through the specific labelling requirements for your shipment.

Hazmat-certified shippers

When shipping an electric bike internationally, you will need to use a Hazmat-certified shipper. This is because the lithium batteries in electric bikes are classified as Class 9 hazardous materials. They present chemical and electrical hazards, contain a flammable electrolyte, and have a high energy density. This means they can overheat and ignite under certain conditions, and their fires are difficult to extinguish.

To find a Hazmat-certified shipper, you can use a website like bikeflights.com/electric-bicycle-shipping. This website allows you to ship your class 1 e-bike and battery, but you must first log in or register. You can also try contacting a local shipping broker to help you find a freight carrier and get a rate for your shipment.

When shipping an electric bike, it is important to ensure that the battery is properly labelled. This includes providing the hazardous material UN number (UN3480) and ensuring that the shipper is IATA certified. This allows the battery to be shipped by air.

It is worth noting that some e-bike retailers may not disclose sufficient battery information for proper shipping. In this case, you may need to find an alternative shipper or work with the retailer to obtain the necessary information.

IATA certification

To ship an electric bike internationally, you will need to ensure that the lithium battery is properly labelled and that the shipper is IATA certified. This is because lithium batteries are classified as hazardous materials, due to the chemical and electrical hazards they present. They can overheat and ignite under certain conditions, and their fires are difficult to extinguish.

To obtain IATA certification, shippers must undergo specialised training and adhere to strict safety regulations. These regulations cover areas such as packaging, labelling, and handling procedures. By achieving IATA certification, shippers demonstrate their ability to manage the unique challenges associated with transporting lithium batteries, including the potential risks and hazards.

When shipping an electric bike internationally, it is crucial to work with a reputable and certified shipper. This ensures that your shipment complies with all relevant regulations and helps to prevent any safety issues during transport. By choosing an IATA-certified shipper, you can have peace of mind knowing that your electric bike's battery is being handled and transported in a safe and responsible manner.

In addition to IATA certification, there may be other requirements or restrictions specific to the country of origin or destination. It is always recommended to consult with your chosen shipper or a local shipping broker to ensure that you have the most up-to-date and accurate information for your particular shipment.

Frequently asked questions