Maersk Updates Rules for Shipping Personal Vehicles
International shippers must now follow stricter battery safety and documentation protocols for all containerized vehicles.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Maersk has updated its global shipping requirements for containerized vehicles to improve transport safety. These new standards affect anyone shipping vehicles internationally, specifically mandating new battery protocols and documentation requirements.
Why it matters
These changes follow new international regulatory standards for battery-powered transport under the IMDG Code. For families relocating or shipping vehicles, understanding these strict safety mandates is necessary to ensure your vehicle is accepted for transit.
Maersk now requires a 30% state of charge for electric vehicles and mandates the use of commodity code 004609 for damaged units. These protocols are part of the new IMDG Code Amendment 42-24 standards.
The players
Maersk
A global shipping and logistics company that manages international freight transport and vessel operations.
The details
To comply with these safety rules, the 12-volt starter battery must be disconnected and terminals insulated before transport. Additionally, all vehicles must remain powered off and disconnected from chargers, with all loose personal cargo removed from the vehicle interior. Shippers are also required to secure vehicles in accordance with the established IMO/ILO/UNECE Code of Practice.
Timeline
January 2027: Voluntary application of IMDG Code Amendment 43-26 begins.
January 2028: Mandatory application of IMDG Code Amendment 43-26 takes effect.
The Home Front
These shipping updates track closely with the evolving global standards for maritime safety and hazardous material transport. They represent a significant shift in how personal assets are processed under the current IMDG Code Amendment 42-24 framework.
If you are planning an international move, confirm your vehicle's current state of charge is at or below 30% before drop-off. You should also verify with your shipping agent that all personal items are cleared from the vehicle to meet the manufacturer-supplied equipment rule.
The takeaway
Shipping a vehicle requires strict adherence to new battery safety and cargo clearing protocols to avoid transport rejection. Ensure you have the correct UN numbers based on your vehicle's specific propulsion system before scheduling your shipment.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest updates in Electric Vehicles.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Container News.
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