In response to the growing risks associated with the maritime transport of lithium-ion cells and batteries, the Cargo Incident Notification System (CINS) has released its latest guidance document (April 2026), titled “Guidelines for Shipping Lithium-ion Cells and Batteries in Containers.”
These guidelines were developed with valuable input from a broad coalition of CINS members, including the International Group of P&I Clubs, ABS, CMA CGM, COSCO Shipping, Emirates Line, Evergreen, IUMI, National Cargo Bureau (NCB), Hazcheck, ONE, PIL, Port Supervisor, Seaspan, TT Club, Wan Hai, Waves, X-Press Feeders, Yang Ming, and ZIM.
The 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 specifically addresses the risks associated with the shipment of these cargoes and outlines recommended measures to mitigate them.
Members requiring further guidance should contact the respective Club.
