The International Safe Containerised Cargo Organisation CINS Guidelines for Shipping Lithium-ion Cells and Batteries in Containers April 2026 Supported by 2 © Copyright 2026 CINS. All Rights Reserved. Introduction 3 1. Cargo Issues 4 2. Preparation for Transport 6 3. Ship Loading Considerations 8 Appendix A 9 (a) Special Provision 188 9 (b) Special Provision 376 10 (c) Special Provision 377 11 Disclaimer The purpose of these Guidelines is to provide a source of information which is additional to that available to the maritime industry from regulatory, advisory and consultative organisations. While care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, no warranty of accuracy is given, and users of that information are expected to satisfy themselves that the information is relevant and suitable for the purposes to which it is applied. In no circumstances whatsoever shall CINS or the contributors be liable to any person whatsoever for any loss of damage whensoever or howsoever, arising out of, or in connection with, the supply (including negligent supply) or use of this information. CINS Guidelines for Shipping Lithium-ion Cells and Batteries in Containers Contents Acknowledgements The work carried out in producing these Guidelines is independent and has not been commissioned or sponsored by any business, government or institution. The contribution of the CINS Members and Honorary Members who participated in the Lithium-ion Batteries Work Group Meetings is gratefully acknowledged: ABS, CMA-CGM, COSCO Shipping, Emirates Line, Evergreen, Gard, IUMI, International Group of P&I Clubs, NCB Hazcheck, North Standard, ONE Line, PIL Port Supervisor, Seaspan, SIMS, Skuld, Steamship, TT Club, UK P&I Club, Wan Hai, Waves, X-Press Feeders, Yang Ming and Zim. The contribution of other organisations is also gratefully acknowledged: Jensen Hughes, Tesla 3 Introduction This document provides shipping companies, operators and carriers with safety guidance for the transport of lithium-ion cells and batteries, classified under UN Nos. 3480 and 3481, in Cargo Transport Units (CTUs). It focuses on the specific risks associated with shipping lithium ion cells and batteries. Note: Lithium-ion cells differ from lithium-ion batteries due to differences in structure and configuration. As components of batteries, lithium-ion cells could present a higher risk during transportation than new, non-waste lithium-ion batteries due to possible lack of additional quality process. Quality control procedures during manufacturing are essential to identify and reject cells and batteries in poor condition, thereby reducing the risks posed by defective or substandard batteries. CINS Guidelines for Shipping Lithium-ion Cells and Batteries in Containers 4 Relation to SAR 101 This document complements the SAR 101 A Guidelines published by CINS. –It provides practical guidance for shipping lithium-ion batteries packed in CTUs, whether declared as dangerous goods or shipped under the exemptions of Special Provision (SP)188. –SAR 101 A focuses on the technical and chemical properties of lithium-ion batteries and cells. Definitions The following definitions, partially sourced from the Manual of Tests and Criteria 1 , are provided for clarity: 1. Cell: A single encased electrochemical unit (one positive and one negative electrode) that exhibits a voltage differential across its two terminals and may contain protective devices. 2. Lithium-ion cell: A rechargeable electrochemical cell in