Importing 18650 Batteries

Is it legal now? or do they still stop parcels coming in with 18650 batteries? :(

Comments

  • since when?

    AFAIK technically you're suppost to sea freight/road freight it, but as it's coming to you - you dont have any control over that

  • +6

    That's a very specific number, why don't you just import 18651 instead?

    • +2

      it's a battery type… like AAA

    • +2

      AA are more formally known as 14500, AAA is 10440, etc.

      18650s are used in e-cigs, laptop batteries, cars, etc.

      The numbers actually tell you the dimensions. AA is 14mm x 50mm, AAA is 10mm x 44mm, and 18650s are.. well.. 18mm x 65mm.

  • Just not import these batteries with a clock..

  • +1

    I import them from Fasttech. Haven't imported them in the last year though, so dunno if they will still do it. My last order was over 1.5 years ago.

    It was shipped by Malaysia airlines… but after the MH370 tragedy they don't do it anymore. You can still use other shipping methods though, it'll just cost a bit more.

    • I believe they have a special option for AU for something like $2. Well worth it - fast and seems to arrive without issues. Don't know how legal it is, but it's usually the seller's responsibility and you have deniability - while you might guess how they're sending it you can't be certain.

      Actually, it's on this list as "Cylindrical batteries - OK". $2 if your order is >$20.

  • Auspost will not carry any lithium batteries by air in anything.
    http://auspost.com.au/parcels-mail/dangerous-and-prohibited-…

    Lithium batteries are often in devices like watches, clocks, mobile phones and MP3 players. All lithium batteries are now classified as dangerous goods. They can't be carried by air.

    Australia Post can't accept lithium batteries or devices containing them for mailing overseas or for domestic air carriage. These can only be transported within Australia by road transport.

  • If you're willing to spend a little more you don't have to import them. I've bought a few different ones (Sony VTC4 and Samsung 25R) for about ~$8 each shipped within Australia. Look up vape shops and they usually have a battery section filled with a selection of 18650s.

  • +1

    smuggle them in using a boogie board + cover.

  • I thought he was going to import 18.650 batteries lol.

  • I don't get it. You can buy them off ebay? I got some for my flashlight from Hong Kong? Why would they be illegal?

    • well, postal policy for some co dictates no batteries on planes. Some countries have it as a law too.

      • Many postage companies no longer ship lithiums, but (some) privately owned couriers still do it. Again, they are subject to aviation laws and cannot ship them without prior inspection and declaration of cargo, to ensure they are safely packed according to IATA guidelines

  • How odd. I have never had a problem with buying extra batteries for my flashlights. They've always arrived here safe and sound.
    I knew about lithium batteries in people's luggage in general,just wasn't aware of restrictions on commercial freight.

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