Effective April 1, 2016, more stringent regulations were issued by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for the transport of Lithium Batteries that are packed and shipped as loose/bulk (UN3480/PI965).

A wide variety of electronic goods powered by Lithium Batteries are affected by the new regulations, regardless of whether they are rechargeable (Lithium Ion) or non-rechargeable (Lithium Metal). The regulations apply when:

• Lithium Batteries are packed and shipped as individual items (loose/bulk).  Example: Loose Batteries/Power bank
• Lithium Batteries are packed separately but shipped with equipment in the same box.  Example: A cell phone with a replaceable Lithium Battery
• Lithium Batteries are contained or installed in equipment and therefore shipped in the same box.  Example: A computer tablet with an integrated Lithium Battery within the device that cannot be removed or replaced by the user

Due to increasing safety concerns raised by the aviation industry, the IATA regulations governing the shipping of Lithium Batteries have been tightened and airlines consequently have to enforce these regulations more rigorously.

Please note that the safe transportation of such contents by air and the full compliance to IATA regulations is the legal responsibility of the Shipper. In view of this fact, IATA has produced a guide to help Shippers understand and comply with the regulations.

Maersk Line, the largest shipping enterprise in the world, decided to stop operation in 10 Chinese ports to save costs, including Chizhou, Luzhou, Yingkou, Jinzhou, Rizhao, Yueyang, Lijiao, Taiping, Jiaoxin and Nansha old port.

“The purpose is to focus on the ports that we could offer the most benefits that in the end create growth, better service and opportunities for our customers,” Maersk Line said in a statement.

Maersk Line is currently represented in 41 locations in China, which has been recognized as the world’s factory since the late 1970s. In recent years, Chinese growth has slowed.