Ningbo Port Implements New Lithium Battery Transport Regulation

On October 22, 2025, Ocean Network Express (ONE) released an important notice concerning new documentation requirements for lithium battery shipments passing through Ningbo Port, China.

According to the Ningbo Maritime Safety Administration (MSA), all Class 9 Dangerous Goods involving lithium batteries must now include an additional UN38.3 test report when booking cargo—effective immediately.

Key Changes in the Regulation

Previously, only a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) was required for lithium battery shipments. Under the new rule, exporters, importers, and freight forwarders must now provide both the SDS and a UN38.3 test report corresponding to the exact battery model being shipped.

This new requirement applies to all shipments involving loading (export), unloading (import), transshipment, and transit through Ningbo Port.

The regulation covers all lithium battery cargo classified as Class 9 Dangerous Goods, including:

* UN 3090 – Lithium metal batteries

* UN 3091 – Lithium metal batteries contained in or packed with equipment

* UN 3480 – Lithium-ion batteries

* UN 3481 – Lithium-ion batteries contained in or packed with equipment

* UN 3536 – Lithium batteries installed in cargo transport units

Failure to provide the required documents—or submitting information that does not match the specific battery model—may result in shipment delays, penalties, cargo rejection, or even refusal of vessel berthing at Ningbo Port.

What Is UN38.3 and Why It Matters

The UN38.3 test is an international standard designed to ensure the safety of lithium batteries during transportation.

It includes multiple tests that simulate extreme conditions such as vibration, shock, temperature changes, pressure variations, and short circuits. Only batteries that pass all these tests are certified safe for air and sea transport.

This certification applies to lithium batteries widely used in electric vehicles, e-bikes, smartphones, laptops, cameras, and other electronic products.

Non-lithium batteries—such as nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, and lead-acid types—are not covered by the UN38.3 requirement.

However, any newly developed or redesigned lithium batteries must undergo fresh UN38.3 testing before shipment.

How Goodship Supports Your Compliance and Shipments

At Goodship, we stay on top of every regulatory update to help clients ship safely and smoothly.

For lithium battery shipments via Ningbo Port, our team provides complete support, including:

* Reviewing and verifying all required documentation, including SDS and UN38.3 reports.

* Coordinating with major carriers such as ONE, MSC, COSCO, and Maersk.

* Offering door-to-door international logistics covering China–U.S., China–Europe, and China–ASEAN routes.

* Handling export customs clearance, dangerous goods declarations, and warehouse consolidation for efficient operations.

With years of experience and a strong compliance background, Goodship ensures your lithium battery shipments meet all international transport standards while maintaining fast, reliable delivery schedules.

Conclusion

The new lithium battery transport rule at Ningbo Port highlights China’s growing emphasis on cargo safety and compliance in the global supply chain.

From now on, all shipments classified as Class 9 Dangerous Goods that include lithium batteries must provide both the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and UN38.3 test report.

By partnering with Goodship, you can stay fully compliant while keeping your shipments moving efficiently and safely across borders.