Testing & Record-keeping Exceptions

Low production runs and prototype runs are exempt from the testing and record-keeping requirements discussed earlier in this course, assuming that the following stipulations are met:

• Each cell or battery is individually packed in a non-metallic inner packaging, inside an outer packaging, and is surrounded by cushioning material that is non-combustible and non-conductive, or contained in equipment. Equipment must be constructed or packaged to prevent accidental operation during transport.
• Appropriate measures are taken to minimize the effects of vibration and shocks and prevent movement of the cells or batteries within the package that may lead to damage and a dangerous condition during transport. Cushioning material that is non-combustible and non-conductive may be used to meet this requirement.
• The lithium cells or batteries are packed in inner packaging or contained in equipment. The inner packaging or equipment is placed in one of the following outer packaging: a metal, wooden, a solid plastic box; or a metal, plywood, or plastic drum.
• Lithium batteries, including lithium batteries contained in equipment, that weigh 12 kilograms (26.5 pounds) or more and have a strong, impact-resistant outer casing, or assemblies of such batteries, may be packed in strong outer packagings. They also must be packed in protective enclosures (for example, in fully enclosed or wooden slatted crates), or on pallets or other handling devices, instead of packages meeting the UN performance packaging requirements. The battery or battery assembly must be secured to prevent inadvertent movement, and the terminals may not support the weight of other superimposed elements.
• The battery or battery assembly prepared for transport may have a mass exceeding 35 kilograms gross weight when transported by cargo aircraft.
• Batteries or battery assemblies are not permitted for transportation by passenger aircraft. They may be transported by cargo aircraft only if the shipment is approved by the proper authority prior to transportation.
• Shipping papers must include a notation stating, "Transport in accordance with §173.185(e)."

To learn more about Lithium Batteries HAZMAT visit our DOT Lithium Batteries HAZMAT Online Training web page.