Product Applicability
Lithium Battery Imports South Africa: PVoC CoC Requirements
Lithium batteries imported into South Africa require a PVoC Certificate of Conformity. They are regulated goods under the SABS PVoC programme because they are subject to compulsory SANS standards covering electrochemical safety. From 20 September 2026, lithium battery shipments arriving without a valid CoC will be detained by SARS Customs.
Why Lithium Batteries Are Regulated
Fire and Explosion Risk Drives Mandatory Standards
Lithium batteries — including lithium-ion, lithium polymer, and lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistries — are regulated under the SABS PVoC programme because of the fire and explosion risks associated with non-compliant cells. Thermal runaway in a defective lithium battery can cause fires that are extremely difficult to extinguish and can occur without warning.
The applicable standards include SANS 62133 (safety requirements for portable sealed secondary lithium cells and batteries) and IEC 62619 (safety requirements for secondary lithium cells and batteries for use in industrial applications). These standards set requirements for cell construction, overcharge protection, short-circuit protection, and thermal management.
Non-compliant lithium batteries have been responsible for fires in residential properties, warehouses, and vehicles in South Africa. The PVoC requirement for lithium batteries is therefore a consumer safety measure with direct public safety implications, not merely a regulatory formality.
What Types of Lithium Batteries Are Covered
From Consumer Cells to Industrial Battery Packs
The PVoC CoC requirement applies to a broad range of lithium battery products. Consumer lithium batteries — including the 18650 cells used in power banks, laptop batteries, and e-cigarettes — are regulated. Lithium polymer batteries used in drones, RC vehicles, and portable electronics are regulated. Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery packs used in solar energy storage systems are regulated.
Industrial lithium battery systems — including large-format battery packs for electric vehicles, forklifts, and grid-scale energy storage — are also regulated, though the applicable standards may differ from those for consumer batteries. Importers of industrial battery systems should confirm the specific SANS standards applicable to their product category with an SABS-accredited inspection body.
The HS codes most commonly associated with lithium batteries include 8507.60 (lithium-ion accumulators), 8507.80 (other electric accumulators), and 8507.90 (parts of electric accumulators). Importers should verify the correct HS code for their specific product with their clearing agent.
The Inspection and Certification Process
How to Obtain a PVoC CoC for Lithium Batteries
To obtain a PVoC CoC for lithium batteries, contact an SABS-accredited inspection body — Bureau Veritas, Intertek, SGS, or TÜV Rheinland — and provide them with the product specifications, applicable SANS standards, and planned shipment details. The inspection body will assess the batteries against the relevant standards and issue a CoC if they comply.
For lithium batteries, the inspection typically involves a review of the manufacturer's test reports (from an accredited testing laboratory) against the applicable SANS/IEC standards. In some cases, the inspection body may require additional testing, particularly for new product models or manufacturers without an established compliance history.
First-time certifications for lithium batteries typically take 3–6 weeks, longer than for some other product categories because of the complexity of the applicable standards. Importers who are new to lithium battery imports should start the certification process well before their planned shipment date.
Special Considerations for Lithium Battery Imports
Dangerous Goods Regulations and PVoC
Lithium batteries are also subject to dangerous goods regulations for transport. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) have specific requirements for the transport of lithium batteries, including state-of-charge limits, packaging requirements, and labelling requirements.
These dangerous goods transport requirements are separate from the PVoC CoC requirement. A PVoC CoC confirms that the batteries meet South African safety standards. Dangerous goods compliance confirms that the batteries are transported safely. Both are required for lithium battery imports into South Africa.
Importers of lithium batteries should work with a freight forwarder who is experienced in dangerous goods transport to ensure that both the PVoC CoC and the dangerous goods transport requirements are met before shipment.
Do lithium batteries need a PVoC CoC?
Yes. Lithium batteries are regulated goods under the SABS PVoC programme. They are subject to compulsory SANS standards covering electrochemical safety. A PVoC CoC from an SABS-accredited inspection body is required before shipment.
Which SANS standards apply to lithium batteries?
The primary standards are SANS 62133 (safety requirements for portable sealed secondary lithium cells and batteries) and IEC 62619 (safety requirements for secondary lithium cells and batteries for industrial applications). The specific standards applicable depend on the battery type and application.
What HS codes are used for lithium batteries?
Common HS codes include 8507.60 (lithium-ion accumulators), 8507.80 (other electric accumulators), and 8507.90 (parts of electric accumulators). Confirm the correct HS code with your clearing agent.
How long does PVoC certification take for lithium batteries?
First-time certifications typically take 3–6 weeks because of the complexity of the applicable standards. Start the process well before your planned shipment date.
Are dangerous goods regulations separate from PVoC?
Yes. Dangerous goods transport regulations (IATA/IMO) are separate from the PVoC CoC requirement. Both must be met for lithium battery imports. Work with a freight forwarder experienced in dangerous goods transport.
Continue Learning
Lithium Battery Imports CoC
The general applicability article for lithium battery imports.
PVoC Approved Bodies
List of SABS-accredited inspection bodies.
SA Import Regulations 2026
Full overview of what changes for importers in 2026.
What Happens Without a CoC
Detention, demurrage, and penalty consequences.
Your Lithium Battery Shipments Need a PVoC CoC
Lithium batteries are regulated goods. A PVoC CoC is required before shipment. Create your CoC Vault record before the 20 September 2026 deadline.
Sources: Government Gazette No. 54374 (20 March 2026); Standards Act 8 of 2008; Customs and Excise Act 91 of 1964; SANS 62368-1; SANS 60598; SANS 1841; SANS 1019. Last verified: 3 May 2026. certificatesofconformity.co.za is an independent reference publication operated by LinkDaddy LLC, a Florida-registered US entity. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the SABS, NRCS, SARS, or any agency of the Government of South Africa.