1. Home
  2. News
  3. Update: New Document Requirement for DG Lithium Batteries - Ningbo Port

Update: New Document Requirement for DG Lithium Batteries - Ningbo Port

Advisory

PDF version available here

 

Update 

New Mandatory Document Submission for DG Lithium Batteries 

Ningbo Port (China)

Dear Valued ONE Customers, 

As an update to the advisory released on October 27, 2025,  the requirement of the UN 38.3 Test Report for the transport of Class 9 Dangerous Goods through the Port of Ningbo has been reinstated with an updated submission deadline, effective immediately.

While the submission of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) has been and remains a requirement, the UN 38.3 Test Report has been added to the list of documents that must be prepared and submitted for all applicable bookings.

Please ensure adherence to the requirements below to maintain compliance and prevent severe delays, penalties, or cargo refusal at the terminal.

1. Scope of the New Requirements

This rule applies to all lithium battery shipments classified as Class 9 Dangerous Goods with the following UN Numbers:

  • UN 3090 (Lithium metal batteries)
  • UN 3091 (Lithium metal batteries contained in or packed with equipment)
  • UN 3480 (Lithium-ion batteries)
  • UN 3481 (Lithium ion batteries contained in or packed with equipment)
  • UN 3536 (Lithium batteries installed in a cargo transport unit)

Applicability:

The new documentation rule applies to all movements involving Ningbo Port, including load (export), discharge (import), transshipment, and transit.

2. Mandatory Documentation for Booking

For all applicable DG Lithium Battery bookings, the following two documents must be uploaded to eComm by the submission deadlines listed below:

Required Document

Status

Submission Deadline

Key Action

1. UN 38.3 Test Report

New

1 week before the vessel's  arrival at Ningbo

Must be provided for the specific battery model being shipped.

2. Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

Existing

At the time of booking

Must be provided (this has been a standing requirement).

Crucial Compliance Alert:

  • The UN 38.3 Test Report is the new mandatory requirement. This report must clearly show that the battery model meets the safety requirements stipulated in the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, Sub-section 38.3.
  • Missing documents or document discrepancies (e.g., mismatched model numbers) will result in penalties/fines and may lead to the rejection of your shipment or vessel berthing refusal.
     

3. Effective Date

The new requirements are effective immediately. 

Please prioritize the immediate preparation and submission of both the UN 38.3 Test Report and the SDS at the time of your DG booking to ensure uninterrupted operations through Ningbo Port.

Thank you for your continued support and for choosing Ocean Network Express (ONE) to cater to your needs.  Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your ONE representative.

 

Sincerely, 

Ocean Network Express (North America) Inc.