Shipping Caravans & Motorhomes: A Guide to Gas Systems & Lithium Batteries

Shipping your caravan or motorhome opens up a world of adventure, allowing you to explore new countries with all the comforts of home. However, the very features that make these vehicles so self-sufficient—namely, their liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) systems and potential lithium battery banks—are classified as hazardous materials for international shipping. At Ship Cars Ltd, we specialise in navigating these complex regulations to ensure your vehicle is shipped safely, legally, and without delay.

This definitive guide explains the strict rules governing flammable gas and lithium batteries, detailing exactly what is allowed and what is prohibited for a successful shipment. Ship Cars Ltd

Understanding the Risks: Why Regulations Are So Strict

International maritime law, governed by the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, is uncompromising when it comes to safety at sea. A cargo vessel is a confined environment where a fire or explosion can be catastrophic.

• Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG): Propane or butane is highly flammable. A leak in an enclosed hold can create an explosive atmosphere, which could be ignited by a single spark.
• Lithium Batteries: These batteries pose a dual risk of fire and thermal runaway. If damaged, short-circuited, or improperly manufactured, they can self-heat and ignite, producing intense heat that is extremely difficult to extinguish.

Due to these severe risks, shipping lines enforce a strict “zero tolerance” policy. Non-compliance will result in your vehicle being refused loading at the port, leading to significant financial loss and delays.

Part 1: Flammable Gas (LPG) Systems – Rules & Preparation

The regulations for gas systems are clear and non-negotiable. Failure to adhere to them is the most common reason for caravans and motorhomes being rejected for shipping. car shipping services

What is NOT Allowed

1. Gas Cylinders with Gas: You are absolutely prohibited from shipping a caravan or motorhome with any LPG gas cylinder that contains gas, whether it is connected to the system or stored separately.
2. Connected Gas Cylinders: Even an empty gas cylinder must not be connected to the vehicle’s gas system at the time of shipping.

What IS Allowed & The Correct Procedure

The only way to ship a vehicle with a gas system is to demonstrate it is completely safe and de-pressurised.

1. Gas Cylinders Must Be EMPTY: All LPG cylinders must be fully emptied of gas.
2. Cylinders Must Be DISCONNECTED: All cylinders must be physically disconnected from the vehicle’s gas system.
3. Cylinder Valves must be CLOSED: The valve on the empty, disconnected cylinder must be securely closed.
4. The Entire System Must Be PURGED: It is not enough to just disconnect the cylinder. The entire gas system (pipes, hoses, and appliances) must be purged of any residual gas. The safest and most accepted way to do this is to run each gas appliance (cooker, heater, fridge) until the flame dies out, confirming no gas remains in the lines.  International Container Shipping

Your Pre-Shipment Gas System Checklist

• Use up or safely discharge all gas from every LPG cylinder.
• Physically disconnect all cylinders from the vehicle.
• Ensure all cylinder valves are tightly closed.
• Purge the entire gas system by running appliances until they are completely out of fuel.
• If possible, secure disconnected cylinders in their storage locker to prevent movement.

Proof of Compliance: While not always formally requested, it is highly advisable to take photographs and videos of the disconnected, empty cylinders and the purged system. This can serve as valuable evidence if any questions are raised at the port.  Roll On Roll Off Shipping

Part 2: Lithium Batteries – Rules & Preparation

The rules for lithium batteries depend entirely on their type, size, and how they are integrated into the vehicle.

What is NOT Allowed

1. Loose/Spare Lithium Batteries: You are prohibited from shipping loose lithium-ion or lithium-metal batteries (e.g., spare e-bike batteries, power tool batteries, portable power stations) inside the caravan or motorhome.
2. Damaged or Recalled Batteries: Any battery that is damaged, defective, or subject to recall is strictly forbidden.
3. Non-Compliant Installations: Aftermarket lithium battery banks that are not professionally installed and securely fixed may be questioned and rejected.For more details you can read Essential UK Car Shipping Rules You Need to Know.

What IS Allowed

The regulations distinguish between batteries that are installed in equipment and those that are not.

1. Batteries INSTALLED in Equipment: This is the key distinction. A lithium battery that is permanently installed and powering a part of the vehicle is generally permitted, provided it is securely fitted to prevent movement and the terminals are insulated to prevent short circuits.
   • Examples: A factory-fitted or professionally installed leisure battery bank, or the starter battery for a motorhome.
2. Small Consumer Electronics: Small lithium batteries contained in personal devices (e.g., laptops, mobile phones, cameras, shavers) are typically allowed when carried inside the vehicle.

Your Pre-Shipment Lithium Battery Checklist

• Identify All Batteries: Locate every lithium battery in your vehicle, including those in leisure systems, e-bikes, scooters, or medical devices.
• Remove Loose Batteries: Take out all spare, uninstalled lithium batteries. These must be transported separately by air or not shipped at all.
• Secure Installed Batteries: Ensure all installed battery banks are physically secured in their housings and cannot shift during transit.
• Disconnect and Insulate: For the main leisure battery bank, it is a best practice to:
  • Disconnect it at the main terminals.
  • Insulate the terminals with electrical tape or proper terminal covers to prevent any chance of a short circuit.
• Charge Level: Lithium batteries should be shipped at a partial state of charge, ideally between 30% and 50%. Do not ship them fully charged or completely flat.

General Preparation: Beyond Gas and Batteries

To ensure your vehicle is ready for its journey, a thorough general preparation is also required.

1. Deep Cleaning

• Interior: The living area must be clean, dry, and free from food crumbs, dirt, and debris. This is crucial for biosecurity inspections at the destination country (e.g., Australia, New Zealand, USA).
• Exterior & Undercarriage: A clean exterior and, most importantly, a spotlessly clean undercarriage are often mandatory. Mud and soil can harbour pests and seeds, leading to your vehicle being held, cleaned, and fumigated at your expense.

2. Remove Personal Belongings & Prohibited Items

• Personal Effects: For Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) shipping, personal goods are generally not allowed inside the vehicle. For container shipping, they may be permitted but must be declared. Always confirm with us first.
• Other Hazardous Materials: Remove all other prohibited items, including:
  • Fuel cans (petrol/diesel)
  • Fireworks, flares, or ammunition
  • Aerosols (unless essential and declared)
  • Fresh foods, plants, and seeds

3. Mechanical Preparation

• Motorhomes: Must be in full working order for RORO shipping. The fuel tank should be no more than 1/4 full.
• Caravans: Ensure the braking system is functional and the tyres are correctly inflated.

Summary: Your Essential Pre-Shipment Action Plan

To guarantee a smooth shipping process for your caravan or motorhome, you must complete the following steps:

1. GAS SYSTEM:
   • Completely empty all LPG cylinders.
   • Disconnect all cylinders from the vehicle.
   • Purge the entire gas system of residual fuel.
2. LITHIUM BATTERIES:
   • Remove all loose or spare lithium batteries.
   • Ensure installed batteries are securely fixed.
   • Disconnect and insulate the terminals of main leisure battery banks.
3. GENERAL PREPARATION:
   • Conduct a deep clean of the interior, exterior, and undercarriage.
   • Remove all personal belongings and other prohibited items.
   • Ensure the vehicle is mechanically sound.

Ready to Ship with Confidence?

The rules are strict for a reason: your safety and the safety of the crew and vessel. By following this guide, you take full control of the process. The team at Ship Cars Ltd is here to provide further clarification and manage the complex documentation on your behalf.

Contact us  today for a definitive quote and let our experts guide you through a compliant and worry-free shipping experience for your caravan or motorhome.