UN specification packaging such as 4G fiberboard boxes, various types of drums, and wooden boxes are all compliant to ship lead acid batteries per the 49CFR.
How should lead acid batteries be packaged?
Per the 49CFR 173.159, lead acid batteries must be packaged in a manner to prevent a dangerous evolution of heat and short circuits. This would include, when practicable, packaging the battery in fully enclosed packaging made of non-conductive material, and ensuring terminals aren't exposed.
Most Sealed Lead Acid batteries using Gel or Absorbent Glass Matt (AGM) technology is classed as non-spillable while even a 'sealed' standard lead acid battery with liquid electrolyte is spillable.
UN specification packaging such as 4G fiberboard boxes, various types of drums, and wooden boxes are all compliant to ship lead acid batteries per the 49CFR. If you are shipping by air, a leakproof liner is also a requirement as well.
Can a lead acid battery be transported in a non-UN standardized container?
If you are shipping domestically within Canada, we would look at Packing Instruction 801 in the TP14850. Here it says that the lead acid batteries may be handled, offered for transport, or transported in a non-UN Standardized container if the dangerous goods are placed in a rigid container, wooden slatted crate, or on a pallet.
Can I ship lead acid batteries internationally?
Similarly, the IMDG code sets out similar requirements at Packing instruction P801 when you are shipping internationally by Sea. Using UN packaging would also be acceptable to ship lead acid batteries within Canada as well as by Sea internationally. If you are shipping internationally by air, we would look in IATA at Packing instruction 870.
Packaging is regulated by IATA Section 5, Packing Instruction 870 which, in addition to the above requirements, specifies that the battery must be contained within an “acid/alkali-proof liner of sufficient strength and adequately sealed to positively preclude leakage in the event of spillage.”