Shipping an electric vehicle (EV) may appear to be complicated due to the various regulations, risks, and safety concerns involved in customs clearance. Unlike ICE vehicles, EVs have different shipping requirements as they are battery-powered. Electric vehicle shipping regulation will help you enjoy a smooth and safe shipping process as electric vehicles are becoming more and more popular.
When shipping an electric vehicle, it is imperative to know what to consider and what need to be the regulations. Let’s today discuss how your shipper as well as you can ship electric vehicles in a safe manner.
1. What is the Importance of Electric Vehicle Shipping Regulations?
Motor gasoline cars don’t come with massive lithium-ion batteries. However electric vehicles (EVs) do. Thus, they require special handling. A battery can have risks like fire or other safety risks, if it gets damaged or is not handled properly. Thus, there are rules to avoid risk while shipping EVs.
Furthermore, rising electric vehicle shipments have prompted the establishment of industry standards and best practices. These regulations will ensure that the EVs are safely loaded and transported as well as unloaded. This will ensure the peace of mind of both the owners and the carriers.
2. Key Rules for Shipping Electric Vehicles
Following are some of the major rules and requirements to ship an electric car.
Rules of Batteries
Perhaps the greatest concern when it comes to shipping an EV is the lithium-ion batteries’ safety. A battery is classified as a hazardous material because it can overheat and self-ignite in extreme conditions. So it appears.
Proper Packaging – Many shipping companies require EVs to be packaged properly so that the battery does not get damaged during shipping. Ensure tight fastening and safe covering to slow down the damage of moisture.
In U.S, DOT (Department of Transportation) and FMCS (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) have made orders that apply to transporting hazardous material both at state and federal level. These standards complied by the carrier along with the packaging and labeling specifications.
Battery disconnection. Your carrier may require the battery of the EV be disconnected or turned off before transport to lessen risk.
Requirements for Battery Charge Level
Prior to shipping an electric vehicle, the battery often needs partially charged. Shipping companies generally advise their consumers to keep the charge levels between 20-80% for the following reasons.
An EV battery that is too low may not start after being unload and in some cases, if it’s completely drained, it can lose power while travelling. Delivery might face some delay or other issues.
If the battery is overcharge, it can overheat. Also, it can create safety risks while being transport.
Find out the best state of charge for shipping your EV from your shipping company.
Carrier-Specific Regulations and Restrictions
Each shipping company has different rules regarding EV transport. Some differences might include.
Enclosed vs. Open Transport: Most standard vehicles ship on open carriers, but it is generally advised to transport EVs via enclose transport, so they remain protected from the elements and any potential damage. By virtue of being enclose, they provide EVs a more controlled environment.
Because of their batteries, EVs weigh more than existing vehicles. Transporting electric vehicles incurs higher charges from the carriers for cars exceeding the threshold weight limit.
Shipping a Car: Since many EVs sit lower to the ground and have some unique shape/structure, in some cases a carrier might require the car to be ship with a carrier that has special ramps or equipment to load the car.
Confirm the shipping company’s specific regulations on electric vehicles before selecting them.
Global Transport Laws
When exporting your electric vehicle, extra rules come into play. Regulations and customs policies of different countries are different for importing and exporting vehicles with lithium-ion batteries. For instance.
European Union: As per the new EU regulations, EVs have to be ship in special packing with battery safety measures. You might also need to provide other customs documents.
When exporting electric vehicles, they are subject to international maritime shipping regulations. Among other things, this also complies with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG) which offers specific regulations on how one can ship lithium batteries by sea.
International shipping may take time for customs screening and clearance. Make sure to plan ahead when shipping your EV abroad.
3. Best practices to ship your electric vehicle
Along with knowing the rules, here are some practices to ship your electric vehicle safely and efficiently.
Selecting the right carrier
Choose one who has a sound experience in shipping electric vehicles along with their regulations. A well-regarded shipping company will have the expertise and equipment needed to handle your EV safely and comply with all regulations.
See if they’re certified by appropriate industry bodies, like the FMCSA or DOT, and ensure they comply with safety protocols for transporting hazardous materials.
Record the condition of the vehicle
Prior to shipment, take detailed pictures of your EV from every angle. Having a copy of the condition report can help settle any disputes regarding damage to your vehicle during transport.
Several shipping companies usually provide a shipping inspection report to ascertain the condition of the car. Make sure you fill it completely out to protect your interest.
Keep the Vehicle Safe
Make sure your electric vehicle is secure to the transport carrier. To prevent movement and damage during transport use wheel straps and any other securing devices.
Look for Special Handling Requirements: A plethora of electric vehicles need special loading and unloading experience due to low ground clearance. Make sure the carrier can satisfy these requirements.
Brace Yourself for Delays or Bad Weather
Transport time affected by winter weather or delays. If your car is being ship far away or overseas, expect possible delays.
Check Your Shipment: Most transport companies offer tracking services. It’s important to track the status of your shipment and keep in contact with your carrier.
4. In summary
When shipping an electric vehicle, be aware of electric vehicle shipping regulations and safety guidelines. To have your EV transported safely, you must know the exact regulations such as the battery requirements, in what way you should send your EV, and the carrier’s norms.
Car Shipping Source is adept at delivering electric vehicles anywhere in the USA safely. Our empathetic teams can help you with shipping an EV whether you are moving it, buying it, or selling it. Reach out to us now for safe and affordable electric vehicle shipping solutions.
