Announcement background
According to Amendment 42-24 of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code), relevant updates started to be implemented from January 1, 2025, including important changes related to the transport of new energy battery products.
As exports of lithium batteries, sodium-ion batteries, and new energy vehicles continue to increase, companies should pay closer attention to dangerous goods classification, UN number confirmation, test reports, and transport document requirements.
Key update 1: Sodium-ion batteries added to dangerous goods transport requirements
IMDG Code Amendment 42-24 adds new UN entries for sodium-ion batteries: UN3551 sodium ion batteries and UN3552 sodium ion batteries contained in equipment or packed with equipment.
These products are included under Class 9 dangerous goods management. Exporters should confirm product type, UN number, test report, packaging requirements, and carrier acceptance conditions in advance.
Key update 2: Lithium battery document review continues to tighten
For lithium ion batteries and lithium metal batteries, exporters should focus on confirming UN3480 / UN3481, UN3090 / UN3091, UN38.3 test reports, SDS/MSDS, transport identification reports, packaging, and label requirements.
Key update 3: Battery-powered vehicle transport requirements updated
For lithium battery-powered vehicles, sodium-ion battery-powered vehicles, new energy vehicles, and industrial vehicles, the IMDG Code adds relevant transport entries and clarifies transport expectations.
Before export, companies should confirm battery type, vehicle condition, transport classification, and carrier review requirements.
Key update 4: Exporter preparation checklist
Before exporting battery products, companies should prepare product information, battery parameters, UN number, test reports, SDS/MSDS, transport identification documents, and packaging materials.
VCEN reminder
Dangerous goods export is not only a booking issue. More importantly, it is a transport compliance issue.
For exports of lithium batteries, sodium-ion batteries, and battery-powered vehicles, VCEN recommends completing document review in advance to avoid shipment delays caused by incorrect classification, missing documents, or carrier review requirements.
Key notice
IMDG Code Amendment 42-24 further clarifies requirements for lithium batteries, sodium-ion batteries, and battery-powered vehicles, making early compliance review more important.