Shipping electrical goods internationally? Whether you’re sending consumer electronics, power tools, or industrial equipment, this product category is among the most sensitive and regulated in logistics. Without the right preparation, things can go wrong: damage in transit, fire risks, customs delays, or returns due to improper labeling.
Good news: shipping electronics does not have to be complicated. Follow best practices for packaging, battery handling, and documentation so your shipments arrive safely, in compliance, and on time. If your products include lithium batteries, make sure they meet current IATA Dangerous Goods rules and DHL acceptance criteria.
What are electrical items?
Electrical goods are products that run on electricity from a wall outlet or a battery. The category spans household appliances, consumer electronics, power tools, medical devices, and smart home tech.
Examples of common electrical goods include:
- Smartphones, tablets, laptops
- Kitchen appliances like blenders and coffee machines
- Power tools and DIY equipment
- Medical devices and diagnostic equipment
- Smart home devices such as thermostats and security cameras
If you are shipping electronics internationally, check whether the item contains a lithium-ion or lithium metal battery, then follow the correct packaging and labeling rules for that battery type.
When transporting these products, especially over long distances, one major consideration is how to handle lithium batteries. They are potentially hazardous, which is why strict labeling, documentation, and packaging requirements apply. Read the detailed guidance on shipping lithium batteries here.
Eligibility and restrictions: DHL Express does not accept lithium batteries that are damaged, defective, or recalled for safety reasons. Ship only batteries and devices that meet current IATA Dangerous Goods rules and UN 38.3 test requirements, and follow the correct markings and paperwork for your battery type.
How to package electronics for shipping
Good packaging is your first line of defense against damage during shipping, especially for fragile, high-value, or battery-powered items.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to packaging electrical products the right way:
1. Disassemble accessories
Remove and separately pack detachable components like:
- Power cords
- Chargers
- Earphones
- Mounts or stands
2. Protect delicate components
Use anti-static bags to shield circuit boards or sensitive parts from electrostatic discharge (ESD) during transit.
3. Wrap each item individually
Use bubble wrap or foam sheets and tape them in place to prevent movement.
4. Choose a strong outer box
Use a sturdy corrugated cardboard box, ideally double-walled. Add padding between the item and the box walls.
5. Cushion everything
Use packing peanuts, foam inserts, or air pillows to fill all gaps and prevent movement. No loose space should remain; items should be snug and immobilized.
6. Seal properly
Use strong packing tape and apply the H-taping method to seal all edges and seams. Consider reinforcing with extra tape if the box is heavy.
Applying the shipping label
You can create your shipment label with a few clicks using DHL’s electronic shipping tools. Follow these tips when you apply the label:
- Place the label on the largest, flattest area on the top of the box so it remains visible and easy to scan.
- Keep the entire label on a single surface and away from edges or seams.
- Do not cover the barcode or key details with tape, shrink wrap, or paperwork.
- Remove old labels or markings if you are reusing packaging.
- Put a spare label or the waybill number inside the box in case the outer label is lost.
- If other labels are required, apply them on a different surface than the main shipping label.
- Use a clear window pouch for any loose documents that must be attached outside the box.”
Documentation for shipping electronics
One of the biggest causes of customs delays when shipping electrical goods is incomplete or incorrect documentation, especially when lithium batteries are involved.
What you must include:
- Commercial Invoice: Full item description and value, plus the HS code or Harmonized Tariff Code for each product.
- Air Waybill: Shipper and receiver details, service level, and package count.
- Battery details if applicable: Declare the battery type and UN number (for example, UN 3481 for lithium-ion contained in equipment), include the watt-hour (Wh) rating, and reference the UN 38.3 test summary availability.
What is an HS code?
Any destination-specific import docs: Based on local rules and the products you are sending.
HS codes are standardized product classifications used by customs worldwide. Include the correct HS code on your Commercial Invoice to speed up customs clearance. If you are unsure, ask your supplier for the code they use or work with a customs broker to identify the right classification.
Tip: For complex or high-value shipments, consider working with a customs broker to streamline customs clearance.
Your pre-shipment checklist for electrical goods
Before you hand over your shipment, run through this essential checklist to make sure your electrical goods are packaged, labeled, and documented correctly. It’ll help you avoid delays, damage, or compliance issues – and keep your shipment moving smoothly across borders.
DHL Express: your trusted partner for shipping electronics
Shipping electronics internationally comes with a unique set of challenges, but with the right preparation, these risks are easy to manage. Following best practices for packing, applying the correct labels, and completing accurate documentation will help you avoid delays and keep your shipments moving smoothly.
Consider shipping insurance for high-value items: add Shipment Insurance during booking, and make sure the declared value on your Commercial Invoice matches the insured amount. This helps protect your business if loss or damage occurs in transit.
Our services include:
- Expertise in handling lithium battery and DG shipments
- Pre-clearance to avoid customs delays
- Fast, secure transit with full shipment tracking
- Climate-controlled options for temperature-sensitive electronics
- Guidance on packaging, labeling, and documentation
All of which means your electrical goods will reach their destination safely and on time, every time.
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