Lithium storage

The storage of lithium batteries – or lithium energy carriers – is not standard storage. Due to fire and explosion risks, complex regulations, and increasingly strict requirements, specialized storage is essential. Whether it concerns new batteries, damaged units, return flows, or temporarily stored bulk shipments: Special Cargo Services offers safe, certified, and fully compliant storage for lithium batteries of all types and sizes.

Why lithium batteries present a high-risk category

Lithium batteries are energy-intensive, chemically unstable when damaged or exposed to heat, and under certain conditions can self-ignite or explode. This is why they fall under hazard class 9 in ADR regulations.

Storage of these products therefore requires:

  • adequate ventilation and temperature monitoring
  • separation from other hazardous materials
  • fire-safe compartmentalization
  • readily accessible extinguishing equipment and detection systems
  • proper labeling and documentation

Special Cargo Services meets all these requirements – and more.

Our storage facilities

Our locations in the Netherlands and Houston (Texas) are equipped with specially designed areas for lithium battery storage. We make use of:

  • lithium storage cabinets and containers with automatic ventilation and extinguishing systems
  • fire-resistant zones according to all guidelines (PGS 37-2 guideline in the Netherlands)
  • temperature and smoke detection with continuous monitoring
  • certified storage units for damaged or suspect batteries
  • secured zones for storing returned batteries and test materials

Who we store for

We provide lithium battery storage services for, among others:

  • manufacturers of electric vehicles
  • importers of e-mobility and battery systems
  • wholesalers and distributors
  • service centers and repair facilities
  • transporters and forwarders of hazardous materials

From one-time temporary storage to structural volumes – we think in solutions.

Combined with other services

Our lithium battery storage can easily be combined with:

  • temporary buffering or transit storage
  • reverse logistics or processing of discarded batteries
  • repacking or repackaging of damaged or oversized units
  • safe transportation by road, sea, or air – including UN-certified packaging
  • destruction or recycling guidance at end-of-life

PGS 37-2: Guideline for safe lithium storage

To provide a legal framework for the storage of lithium energy carriers, the PGS 37-2 guideline was developed as part of the Publication Series for Hazardous Substances (PGS). This guideline consolidates the latest insights regarding risks, prevention, fire safety, and spatial requirements.

“Storing lithium batteries requires more than just warehouse space. Proper training and knowledge are essential, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Special Cargo.”

Koen Huizer, QHSE

When will it take effect?

After a draft version, a new and final version of the guideline was published in November 2023. However, it will not take immediate effect. It will become legally binding once included in the Environmental Activities Decree (Bal) and linked to the Environment and Planning Act. This is expected to happen in 2026.

PGS Sometimes already mandatory

Nevertheless, the new PGS 37-2 guideline can already be applied voluntarily. In fact, in some cases it is already mandatory by authorities, for instance through custom regulations, activity notifications, or new permit applications. Unfortunately, enforcement may vary between municipalities.

Why is it important?

Companies that anticipate this guideline are better prepared for future permit requirements. Investing in PGS-compliant storage means investing in continuity and safety. Special Cargo Services closely follows these developments and aligns its storage facilities and procedures with the principles of PGS 37-2, ensuring a future-proof solution.

Why choose Special Cargo Services?

  • special zones for lithium storage within a fully classified ADR environment
  • experienced hazardous materials specialists in-house
  • custom solutions for volumes of all sizes
  • rapid setup – often within 24 hours
  • complete documentation and compliance service
  • a reliable partner with a global network

Let’s discuss your lithium storage needs

Do you need a safe, compliant storage solution for lithium batteries in the short or long term? We would be happy to discuss your situation and propose a suitable solution – temporary or permanent. Please contact us via the contact form.