The 30% State of Charge (SoC) limit is now a mandatory law for batteries packed with equipment and inside vehicles. If a battery is charged above this level, the airline will reject it to reduce the risk of fire during the flight.
Key Takeaways
Mandatory 30% Charge: As of 1 January 2026, the 30% State of Charge (SoC) limit is a strict legal requirement for batteries packed with equipment.
New UN Codes: You must use the new classifications for Sodium-ion batteries and battery-powered vehicles to avoid having your cargo rejected at the port.
Digital Records: To meet the latest IATA requirements, your UN38.3 Test Summary should be digitally accessible via a QR code for quick inspections.
Risk Prevention: Our local knowledge helps you prevent heavy fines and shipment holds, especially when dealing with multiple government ministries for clearance.
The grace period for shipping lithium batteries is officially over. As of 1 January 2026, the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) 67th Edition has made previous safety guidelines into firm laws. For anyone managing logistics in Cambodia, understanding these rules is essential to keep your goods moving and your business growing.
What changed with the 30% rule expansion this year?
The 30% State of Charge (SoC) limit now applies to batteries packed with equipment and those inside various vehicles. This important change lowers the risk of a fire if a battery is damaged during transport.
PI 966 and PI 969: Batteries that are packed with equipment must now have a verified SoC of less than 30% when you hand them over for shipping.
Vehicle Rules: You must follow the new PI 952 guidelines for all vehicles powered by batteries.
Verification Proof: You should provide a Statement of Compliance or clearly note the SoC status on your declaration documents for a smooth clearance process.
Terminal Rejections: Major airports now have automated sensors that can detect high heat signatures, which will lead to non-compliant cargo being stopped.
We can help you verify these levels before your shipment is collected to prevent expensive delays. Adding these simple checks to your quality control process helps you avoid the problem of having cargo returned from the airport. This is especially important as Cambodian authorities, including the General Department of Customs and Excise, require complete and accurate documentation for all imports.
Is your UN38.3 Test Summary a digital passport yet?
In 2026, you cannot legally ship a lithium battery without a valid UN38.3 Test Summary. This document is your proof that the battery has passed strict stress tests. In today's fast-moving supply chain, this summary must be available instantly to everyone who handles your shipment.
QR Code Integration: Many shippers now put QR codes on their packaging that link directly to the digital summary.
Instant Proof: If a regulator like the General Department of Customs and Excise (GDCE) requests proof, you must be able to provide it immediately.
Altitude and Thermal: These tests make sure that battery cells do not leak under the low pressure or extreme temperature changes found in an aircraft.
Vibration and Shock: You need proof that the battery is strong enough to handle the movements of multi-modal transport.
For our regular shippers, we offer a digital document service. We can store your safety data sheets and test reports in a secure online portal, ensuring they are always linked to your electronic waybills for fast and easy audits.
How do you avoid visual rejections at the airport?
Most delays for dangerous goods happen during the first visual check. A label that is not placed correctly or an old sticker can cause a safety hold on your shipment. In 2026, inspectors are paying very close attention to the new Class 9 Hazard Labels and the strength of the packaging.
Class 9 Label: You must use the updated version showing the battery cluster symbol and the number 9.
UN Number Size: Make sure the UN number is clearly marked in a font size of at least 12mm.
Emergency Contact: The Lithium Battery Mark must include a phone number that can be reached 24/7.
Local Language: For major hubs like Phnom Penh Airport, all labels must be in English.
Your packaging must be strong enough to handle the weight of other cargo stacked on top of it. We recommend using the DHL Safety Box, which is designed for these types of goods. A single missing sticker can lead to a fine of 20,500,000 KHR (around $5,000 USD) or more, so getting it right is very important.
How do you ship the new Sodium-ion entries?
2026 is the first year that Sodium-ion batteries are included in the global regulations. While they are often more stable than lithium batteries, they are still considered Class 9 Dangerous Goods.
New UN Codes: Use UN 3551 for batteries shipped by themselves and UN 3552 for those packed with equipment.
Documentation: Your declaration must clearly say "Sodium-ion" to prevent any confusion with other battery types.
Safety Reports: You will still need a test report equivalent to the UN38.3 for these shipments.
PI 978 Compliance: Even though they are more stable, you must follow specific packing instructions to ensure safety.
Our global network is ready to handle these new types of batteries. As your business moves to new technologies, we are here to make sure your logistics can support your growth.
Step-by-Step: Preparing your 2026 shipment
It is best to check your compliance long before the courier arrives. Following this simple process will help your shipment move through the network smoothly.
Identify the Code: Find the exact UN number for your product, like UN 3480 or the new vehicle code UN 3556.
Verify the Charge: Use a proper testing device to confirm your batteries are below the 30% SoC limit.
Digital Submission: Use an online portal like MyDHL+ for your declarations to ensure all information is clear and correct.
Check the Label: Apply the updated 2026 labels and include a copy of the safety data sheet.
Remember that importing many electronics into Cambodia requires a pre-approval import permit from the Ministry of Commerce. Having all your paperwork organised before you ship, especially around busy periods like the Khmer New Year, prevents delays when your goods arrive at Sihanoukville Port or the airport.
Is your battery supply chain ready for the 2027 shift?
Following the 2026 regulations is a key part of your business success. With a good partner, you can turn these complex safety rules into an advantage. Speak with a DHL specialist in Cambodia today to review your products and ship your batteries with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
It applies to all lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries over 100Wh. This includes many powerful tools, drones, and e-bikes. You must check the charge level before you pack the item for shipping.
It is a document that confirms a battery has passed eight specific safety tests, including tests for altitude, temperature, and vibration. You must be able to show this summary to carriers and customs officials at any time.
You must use the new UN 3551 or UN 3552 codes. While these batteries are often safer than lithium, they still need Class 9 hazard labels and the correct safety documents.
Customs officials or the airline will hold your shipment immediately. You may also have to pay administrative fines of up to 20,500,000 KHR and risk having your shipping account suspended.
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