Who is responsible for ensuring proper packaging and labeling of lithium battery shipments?

• A. The shipper/consignor
• B. The carrier
• C. The consignee
• D. The regulatory authority

Answer: (A)

The shipper/consignor is responsible for ensuring proper packaging and labeling of lithium battery shipments. Before the shipment leaves, the shipper must package the batteries so they’re protected from damage and short circuits, using appropriate inner and outer packaging and safeguarding terminals. They must also ensure the batteries are within the allowed state of charge and that any batteries packed with equipment or shipped alone meet the correct packaging and handling requirements. In addition, the shipper must apply the proper hazard labels and marks and provide the required shipping documentation and declarations, so the shipment can be identified and handled safely throughout transit. Carriers rely on the shipper’s compliance to transport the package correctly; they can and will refuse shipments that aren’t properly packaged or labeled, even if the rest of the process seems fine. The consignee’s role is to receive and handle the package, not to prepare or label it. Regulatory authorities set the rules, but the obligation to meet them rests with the shipper.