Can i post lithium batteries by royal mail
According to Royal Mail's guidelines, lithium batteries are considered hazardous materials and are subject to specific regulations and restrictions when shipping by mail.
Here are the key points to consider:
- Prohibited: Royal Mail does not accept lithium batteries for shipping by mail, including by air or surface.
- Permitted: However, Royal Mail allows the shipping of lithium batteries in certain circumstances, such as:
- In equipment, such as laptops, mobile phones, or cameras, where the battery is integral to the device.
- In spare batteries, but only if they are properly packaged and meet specific requirements (see below).
- Packaging requirements: If you need to ship spare lithium batteries, you must ensure they are properly packaged to prevent damage and leakage during transit. This includes:
- Placing the battery in a protective case or pouch to prevent damage.
- Securing the battery with tape or a strap to prevent movement.
- Placing the battery in a fire-resistant pouch or bag.
- Clearly marking the package as "Lithium Batteries" and including a warning label.
- Labeling and documentation: You must also attach the correct labeling and documentation to the package, including:
- A "Lithium Batteries" label on the outside of the package.
- A completed "Lithium Battery Shipping Declaration" form (available on Royal Mail's website).
- A copy of the completed form must be included inside the package.
- Restrictions on quantity and type: There are also restrictions on the quantity and type of lithium batteries that can be shipped. For example, you cannot ship more than 2 lithium batteries per package, and only certain types of lithium batteries are permitted (e.g., lithium-ion, lithium-polymer, and lithium-cobalt).
Before shipping lithium batteries by Royal Mail, it's essential to review their guidelines and regulations in detail to ensure compliance. You can find more information on Royal Mail's website or by contacting their customer service team.