Return shipment of lithium-ion batteries (Reverse logistics)

Any transport of lithium-ion batteries is controlled nationally as well as internationally by dangerous goods regulations. These rules affect shipments and returns in the commercial and private sectors. In addition to individual lithium-ion batteries, entire devices with built-in or enclosed batteries are also affected.

A return can be made for a variety of reasons:

• Return
• Complaint
• Repair
• Disposal

As the sender/packer, you are responsible for the correct declaration of the lithium battery, accompanying documentation and labelling of the package in accordance with dangerous goods regulations! Should there be any irregularities in the event of an inspection of the package (e.g. missing labelling), you as the consignor/packer can be directly prosecuted for this. You can also be held liable if you ship defective or damaged batteries and an accident or fire occurs.

For safety reasons, defective or damaged lithium-ion batteries cannot be returned and must be disposed of at the local hazardous materials collection point.

A damaged battery is present in the following cases:

• Severe damage to the battery casing
• Thermal deformation (melted connection cables or deformed housing)
• Increased heat generation when switched off (not during use or charging)
• Liquid leakage
• Gas leakage
• Batteries that cannot be diagnosed before shipment

We reserve us the right to request a proof of disposal of the item. Ensure that you have an appropriate proof from the hazardous materials collector / disposal centre.

Please contact us in case of defective or damaged batteries:
Service-Phone +49 9542 77227-43, E-mail serviceGermany@vxmt.com

Please use the original cardboard box with the appropriate marking and the corresponding cushioning material to pack returns. Check whether the required markings are still present, intact and legible. If this is not the case, new labels must be attached.

If you do not have the original packaging, use sturdy cardboard boxes and use sufficient cushioning material to ensure that the goods cannot move in the box.

The cells and batteries, unless installed in equipment, must be packed in inner packagings that completely enclose the cell or battery. The cells and batteries must be protected in such a way as to prevent short circuits. This includes protection against contact with electrically conductive materials within the same packaging that may cause a short circuit. Inner packagings shall be packed in resistant outer packagings.

Cells and batteries installed in equipment must be protected against damage and short-circuiting; the devices must be equipped with effective means to prevent accidental tripping. If batteries are installed, the equipment must be packed in resistant outer packaging that is sufficiently strong and dimensioned.

Note: To secure the batteries against short-circuiting, tape the battery contacts or pack the batteries in separate plastic bags.

Each package must be able to withstand a drop test from a height of 1.2 m, regardless of its orientation, without damage to the cells or batteries it contains, without displacement of the contents resulting in contact with the batteries (or the cells) and without release of the contents.

Depending on the transport service provider / parcel service, further regulations apply to the shipment of dangerous goods as well as weight limitations. Please check with your service provider.

 If you are using the original carton, please check whether the required markings are still present, intact and legible. If this is not the case, or if you are using a different carton, please affix the required label on one long side of the package. The minimum dimensions of the label are 100mm x 100mm. Please select the appropriate label, print it and attach it to the side (not top or bottom) of the shipping box.

Download here the corresponding dangerous goods label with our emergency number for legally compliant labelling of your consignment to us. Please note the distinction UN 3481 (Lithium-ion batteries packed in/with equipment) and UN 3480 (Lithium-ion batteries without equipment).

All our lithium-ion batteries or rechargeable batteries are tested in accordance with UN 38.3 and have an energy content of less than or equal to ≤100 watt hours (the exact value can be taken from the battery's type plate). The following packaging regulations therefore apply to our lithium-ion batteries:

Land transport (ADR): Special provision 188

Air transport (IATA/ICAO):

• VA 966 Part II (lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment).
• VA 967 Part II (Lithium-ion batteries packed in equipment)
• VA 965 Part IB (Lithium-ion batteries without equipment)

If you have any questions or uncertainties, please contact us:

Service-Phone: +49 9542 77227-43

E-mail: serviceGermany@vxmt.com

Notice:

We accept no liability for this information. All details and information have been prepared with the best possible care and are subject to regular changes in dangerous goods legislation.

Further information:

 https://unece.org/about-adr

 https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/dgr/lithium-batteries/