State of Charge (30% Rule)

For cargo shipments, batteries must be at 30% state of charge (SOC) or less. But OBC as passenger has different rules.

The 30% Rule - When It Applies:

📦 Cargo Shipments (NOT OBC):

• Lithium batteries shipped as cargo must be at ≤30% SOC
• This is a fire safety requirement
• Applies to Section II shipments
• Reduces thermal runaway risk

👤 Passenger (OBC) Shipments:

• NO specific SOC requirement for passengers
• Batteries can be fully charged
• However, best practices apply

Why 30% for Cargo?

• Lower charge = less energy to release in fire
• Reduces severity of thermal runaway
• Required by IATA Packing Instruction 965-967

OBC Best Practices:

Even though not required, consider:

✅ For High-Value Electronics:

• Charge to ~50% for stability during travel
• Fully discharged batteries can be damaged
• Extremely full batteries have more thermal risk

✅ For Large Batteries (100-160Wh):

• Consider partial discharge before travel
• Document charge level if asked
• Shows due diligence to airlines

✅ For Multiple Batteries:

• Mix of charge levels is fine
• Keep in separate protective cases
• Label if helpful for security

Temperature Considerations:

⚠️ Batteries are sensitive to temperature:

• Don't leave in hot car before flight
• Don't expose to extreme cold in cargo hold
• Lithium batteries perform poorly below 0°C
• Risk increases above 45°C

OnFlyGo Recommendations:

1. For electronics: 40-60% charge is ideal
2. Turn devices OFF completely
3. Use airplane mode if device must stay on
4. Keep in carry-on when possible
5. Document unusual battery configurations