Why can't you mail lithium batteries
Lithium batteries are not allowed to be mailed through the United States Postal Service (USPS) or other carriers due to safety concerns. Here are some reasons why:
- Fire risk: Lithium batteries can overheat, ignite, or even explode if damaged, punctured, or exposed to extreme temperatures during shipping. This can cause a fire or explosion, which can damage packages, buildings, and even harm people.
- Chemical leakage: Lithium batteries contain flammable electrolytes that can leak or spill during shipping, causing a fire or explosion hazard.
- Electrical shock: Lithium batteries can short circuit or become damaged during shipping, causing electrical shock or even electrocution.
- Regulatory restrictions: The USPS and other carriers have strict regulations regarding the transportation of hazardous materials, including lithium batteries. These regulations are in place to protect people, property, and the environment.
- International agreements: The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have established guidelines for the transportation of lithium batteries by air, which are designed to minimize the risk of fires and other safety issues.
To ensure public safety, the USPS and other carriers have implemented the following restrictions:
- Lithium batteries are not allowed in passenger aircraft cargo holds or checked baggage.
- Lithium batteries are not allowed in mail or packages sent through the USPS or other carriers.
- Lithium batteries can only be shipped by air or ground if they are properly packaged and meet specific safety requirements, such as being in a protective case or container, and being accompanied by a hazardous materials declaration.
If you need to ship lithium batteries, you should contact a carrier that specializes in shipping hazardous materials, such as UPS or FedEx, and follow their specific guidelines and regulations.