As China's NEV exports continue to rise, more and more enterprises are entering the NEV export business. However, the lithium-ion batteries powering new energy vehicles fall under the dangerous goods category, with strict compliance requirements for ocean shipping. Lack of knowledge about relevant regulations can lead to cargo detention, fines, or even vessel refusal. This article provides a detailed analysis of lithium battery compliance requirements for NEV ocean shipping, helping export enterprises ship smoothly.

1. Why Is NEV Ocean Shipping Classified as Dangerous Goods Transport?
New energy vehicles (including BEVs, PHEVs, etc.) are equipped with high-capacity, high-energy-density lithium-ion traction batteries that pose risks of short circuit, overheating, fire, or even explosion during transport. According to the IMO's International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, vehicles containing lithium batteries are classified as Class 9 dangerous goods (miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles), with UN number UN3171 (battery-powered vehicles) or UN3480 (lithium-ion battery packs). Therefore, NEV ocean shipping must be operated in accordance with dangerous goods transport regulations.

2. Core Compliance Document Requirements
NEV export ocean shipping requires the following core documents:
① MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)
The MSDS is the most important document for lithium battery shipping and must contain 16 sections: chemical identification, composition/information on ingredients, hazard identification, first-aid measures, fire-fighting measures, accidental release measures, handling and storage, exposure controls/personal protection, physical and chemical properties, stability and reactivity, toxicological information, ecological information, disposal considerations, transport information, regulatory information, and other information. The MSDS must be issued by the manufacturer or a professional agency with accurate and truthful content.
② UN38.3 Test Report
UN38.3 is a testing standard established by the United Nations for lithium battery transport, covering 8 tests: altitude simulation, thermal test, vibration, shock, external short circuit, impact/crush, overcharge, and forced discharge. Traction lithium batteries must provide test reports meeting UN38.3 standards.
③ Dangerous Goods Packaging Certificate
Some ports and shipping lines require a dangerous goods packaging inspection certificate for lithium battery packaging, certifying that the packaging meets dangerous goods transport standards. For complete vehicle transport, it must be confirmed whether the vehicle's own securing and protection meet requirements.
④ Vehicle Compliance Declaration
Some shipping lines require a declaration of conformity issued by the vehicle manufacturer, confirming that the vehicle's lithium battery system complies with relevant safety standards.

3. Packaging & Securing Requirements
NEV Ro-Ro transport has the following requirements for the vehicles themselves:
• Battery State of Charge (SOC): Typically required to be between 30%–50% — neither fully charged nor too low;
• Vehicle Securing: Vehicles must be firmly secured inside the vessel to prevent shifting or collision during transit;
• Insulation Protection: Battery terminals must be properly insulated to prevent short circuits;
• Key Management: Vehicle keys must be managed centrally to ensure vehicles cannot be accidentally started during transport;
• Fault Code Check: Vehicles must be checked for fault codes before shipping to ensure battery system status is normal.

4. Booking & Declaration Process
NEV ocean shipping booking is more complex than regular vehicles. Key points to note:
① Book Early: NEV space is limited — we recommend booking 2–4 weeks in advance.
② Provide Complete Documentation: When booking, provide vehicle information, battery specifications, MSDS, UN38.3 report, and all other required documentation for the carrier's review.
③ Dangerous Goods Declaration: Dangerous goods declaration must be made to the maritime authorities, and some ports require on-site inspection.
④ Dedicated Personnel: It is advisable to assign staff experienced in NEV operations to ensure compliance at every stage.

5. Common Misconceptions & Risk Warnings
① "NEVs aren't dangerous goods": This is the most common misconception. According to the IMDG Code, vehicles with lithium batteries are Class 9 dangerous goods and must be declared as such.
② Risks of Undeclared Goods: Declaring NEVs as regular vehicles can result in heavy fines, cargo detention, or even legal liability if discovered.
③ Incomplete Documentation: Missing or non-compliant MSDS, UN38.3 reports, and other documents may cause the carrier to refuse the shipment.
④ Excessive Battery Charge: Battery charge exceeding the carrier's upper limit may result in loading refusal.

6. SIDAJA NEV Export Services
SIDAJA LOGISTICS has extensive experience in NEV export operations and is familiar with lithium battery transport regulations of various carriers and ports:
• A professional NEV operations team providing full guidance on document preparation and compliance;
• Stable partnerships with multiple Ro-Ro carriers that accept NEV transport, ensuring space availability;
• One-stop door-to-door service from factory to destination port;
• Familiar with import clearance requirements in key markets including the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and South America;
• End-to-end tracking service with timely cargo status updates.
Choose SIDAJA for safer, compliant, and efficient NEV exports.