Opportunity
Federal Register #2026-15823
PHMSA Final Rule: Increased Lithium Battery Transport Limits for Materials of Trade
Buyer
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, Department of Transportation
Posted
August 04, 2026
Identifier
2026-15823
NAICS
335911, 335910, 335912
The Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued a final rule amending lithium battery transport limits under the Materials of Trade (MOT) exception. - Government Buyer: - Department of Transportation (DOT) - Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) - OEMs and Industry Stakeholders: - Battery and equipment manufacturers (e.g., PRBA, OPEI, BCI, APA, USWAG, MDTC) - Safety organizations (e.g., COSTHA, DGAC) - Products/Services Affected: - Lithium batteries (including those installed in equipment) - Excludes sodium ion batteries and prototype/low-production-run batteries - Key Rule Changes: - Increases maximum allowable quantity per lithium battery to 30 kg (66 lbs) - Raises gross vehicle limit to 500 kg (1102 lbs) - Removes quantity limits for batteries installed in equipment - Requires compliance with testing and labeling standards - Includes safety provisions to prevent short circuits, shifting, and accidental activation - Notable Requirements: - Excludes prototype and low-production-run batteries from MOT exception - Sodium ion batteries not included, but may be considered in future - Expected to provide cost savings for businesses in construction, landscaping, food service, and entertainment sectors
Description
This final rule modernizes the Materials of Trade (MOT) exception in the Hazardous Materials Regulations by increasing the maximum allowable quantities of lithium batteries that can be transported as MOTs. The rule aims to reduce regulatory burdens for domestic companies in trades such as construction, landscaping, mowing, tree service, food service, and entertainment by facilitating the transport of battery-powered equipment. It includes safety provisions to prevent short circuits, shifting damage, and accidental activation. The rule is effective September 3, 2026, and is expected to provide annualized cost savings to American businesses.