Meaning
Packing instructions published by the International Air Transport Association govern the commercial shipping of lithium ion batteries contained in equipment by air. Sourcing and logistics managers must comply with the provisions of PI 967 to ensure that devices containing lithium batteries are accepted by air carriers. This regulatory standard applies to consumer electronics, medical devices, and industrial equipment where the batteries are installed within the product.
The application of this standard is bounded by the weight of the lithium cells and the total weight of the package.
Regulatory Limits
Weight limits and cell capacities determine the specific section of the packing instruction that applies to a shipment. Section II of the instruction allows for simplified documentation and labeling for smaller batteries and low-weight packages. However, shipments that exceed these limits must be shipped as fully regulated dangerous goods under Section I. Sourcing teams must ensure that the products are designed to prevent accidental activation during transport.
This requirement prevents localized heating that could damage the packaging or the surrounding cargo. The shipper must certify that all cells within the equipment have passed the necessary safety tests.
Packaging Rules
Protection against short circuits is the primary focus of the packaging requirements. The equipment must be packed in strong outer packaging that prevents movement and damage during transit. The outer carton must be constructed from high-quality fiberboard or plastic that can withstand the weight of the devices.
Sourcing Logistics
Sourcing agreements must define the responsibilities of the manufacturer for preparing compliance documentation. Shippers must provide the necessary declarations and labels to avoid delays at the airport. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to cargo rejection, shipment delays, and substantial fines from civil aviation authorities.
This makes compliance a key performance indicator for logistics providers.
