How to Ship an Electric Bike Internationally (Step-by-Step Guide)

You can ship an electric bike internationally by separating the battery, following lithium battery shipping laws, and using a certified shipper for hazardous goods. It’s not as simple as packing a regular bike, but with the right prep, it’s doable and safe.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to ship your e-bike frame and battery overseas, what rules you need to follow, and alternatives that might save you time, money, or hassle.

TL;DR

• Most airlines don’t allow e-bike batteries onboard due to safety rules.
• You can fly with the frame only, but battery must be shipped separately as hazardous goods.
• Ground and sea freight are safer options for international e-bike shipping.
• Consider alternatives: buy a battery abroad, rent one, or store your e-bike overseas.
• Always follow hazmat shipping laws to avoid fines or worse.

What to Know Before Shipping an E-Bike Internationally

Shipping an e-bike overseas is more complicated than sending a regular bicycle. That’s mainly because of the lithium-ion battery, which is classified as a hazardous material in most countries.

Here are a few key things to understand up front:

• E-bike batteries can’t fly on passenger planes due to fire risk and are banned by most airlines.
• You’ll need to ship the battery separately using a certified hazmat carrier.
• The frame may be allowed as checked baggage, but size and weight limits apply.
• International shipping may involve customs forms, import taxes, and delays.
• Shipping costs can be high, especially for large boxes and hazmat goods.

The U.S. Department of Transportation and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have specific rules for shipping lithium batteries that apply worldwide.

How to Ship an Electric Bike Internationally

To ship an electric bike internationally, remove the battery and ship it separately through a hazmat-certified carrier. Pack the frame securely in a bike box, check airline or courier policies, and prepare any customs paperwork in advance. Avoid shipping restrictions and follow lithium battery regulations to prevent delays or fines.

Now let’s break down the full process so you can get your e-bike shipped safely and legally.

Step 1 – Separate the Battery From the Frame

Most airlines and many shipping services won’t accept a fully assembled e-bike because of the battery. You’ll need to:

• Remove the battery from your e-bike
• Confirm the battery is under 30% charge (a safety requirement)
• Keep the battery powered off and disconnected

If your battery is built into the frame and cannot be removed, shipping by air is nearly impossible. In that case, ground or sea freight may be your only option.

Step 2 – Pack the E-Bike Frame for Shipping

Use a sturdy, oversized bike shipping box, ideally one rated for e-bikes. The goal is to protect the motor, drivetrain, and frame from rough handling.

Here’s how to pack it right:

• Remove or lower the handlebars and pedals
• Deflate the tires slightly
• Use dense foam or bubble wrap around all fragile parts
• Add padding under the motor and display
• Use zip ties to secure any loose cables or components
• Seal the box tightly and label it clearly (but avoid hazmat markings if no battery is included)

Most airlines or couriers treat an e-bike frame as oversized baggage. Check their weight and dimension limits before you book. If it’s too heavy or large, you may need to use a shipping service like BikeFlights.

Step 3 – Ship the Battery Separately With a Certified Hazmat Shipper

Lithium-ion batteries are considered Class 9 dangerous goods under 49 CFR Part 173 by the U.S. DOT. That means you can’t just mail them like normal parcels.

Here’s what you’ll need to do:

• Find a hazmat-certified shipper (e.g. FedEx Ground, UPS Ground, or a 3PL)
• Have the battery professionally packaged and documented (you can’t do this yourself)
• Attach proper Class 9 hazard labels and UN shipping codes (usually UN3480 or UN3090)
• Provide documents like your travel itinerary or proof of personal use to avoid import fees
• Ship several weeks in advance to allow for customs clearance

Not all FedEx or UPS locations can process this type of shipment. Call ahead and confirm the location is hazmat-enabled.

Step 4 – Deal With Customs Paperwork

Every country has different import rules. Customs may flag the battery or even the frame for inspection.

To make it easier:

• Declare the bike and battery as personal use, not for resale
• Include purchase receipts or documentation if needed
• Some countries may apply taxes based on declared value
• Attach your airline ticket or proof of stay to show it’s for travel

A shipping broker (or FedEx/UPS) can help you with the paperwork, but expect to answer a few questions or provide documents to clear customs.

Step 5 – Consider Pickup and Delivery Logistics

Once you land or the bike arrives at its destination, think about how you’ll pick it up:

• Will it be delivered to a hotel or residence?
• Can you pick it up from a courier depot?
• Will you need a vehicle to transport it locally?

Large bike boxes don’t always fit in rental cars or taxis. Plan ahead to avoid a surprise at the airport.

Can You Fly with an Electric Bike?

You can fly with an electric bike frame, but not with the battery. Airlines typically ban lithium-ion batteries over a certain size due to fire risk, so you’ll need to ship the battery separately using a hazmat-certified courier.

Flying with your e-bike requires planning. Many airlines allow you to check in the e-bike frame as oversized luggage if the battery is removed. 

But every airline is different. Some specifically ban e-bikes, while others allow them under certain conditions. Always call ahead to confirm and ask for written confirmation if possible.

As for the battery, most commercial flights do not allow it in either checked or carry-on baggage. That’s because lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes exceed the allowed watt-hour limits. 

If you try to bring it anyway, you could face confiscation, fines, or even legal consequences. To stay compliant, you’ll need to ship the battery through a ground-based hazmat service.

Packaging Tips for International E-Bike Shipping

Packing your e-bike properly is one of the most important steps in the shipping process. A poorly packed bike can lead to delays, damage, or even rejected shipments.

Here are some quick tips:

• Use a large, double-walled bike box or a hard-shell case rated for e-bikes
• Remove or lower the handlebars, pedals, and accessories
• Deflate the tires slightly to reduce pressure risk during transit
• Wrap fragile parts in dense foam or bubble wrap
• Use zip ties or Velcro straps to secure moving parts and cables
• Label the box clearly with your name, contact info, and destination
• Avoid using hazmat or lithium battery stickers unless required—they can trigger unnecessary inspections

Cost to Ship an Electric Bike Internationally

Shipping an electric bike internationally can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000 or more, depending on the destination, weight, battery handling, and courier service used.

Pricing can vary a lot based on what you’re shipping, how far it’s going, and how it’s classified. To help you budget, let’s look at the main factors that influence the final cost.

Actual Weight vs. Dimensional Weight

Carriers don’t just charge by the bike’s weight. They often use dimensional weight (also called DIM weight), which factors in the box’s size. The bigger the box, the more space it takes up, even if it’s not heavy.

For example, a lightweight but bulky bike box might be billed as 60–70 pounds due to its volume. To avoid overpaying, use the smallest box possible that still protects the bike.

Battery Handling Fees

If you’re shipping the battery separately, expect hazmat surcharges. Carriers like FedEx and UPS charge extra for lithium-ion shipments. Fees can range from $50 to $300+ depending on the size, documentation, and destination.

Because batteries are regulated under Class 9 hazardous materials, you’ll also need to pay for professional packaging and certified labeling. This part alone can eat up a large chunk of your budget.

Distance and Destination

The farther the bike travels, the more you’ll pay. Shipping from the U.S. to Europe or Asia will cost more than shipping regionally. Some countries also charge customs duties or import taxes, especially on new or high-value bikes.

Also, rural or remote destinations may include extra handling or delivery fees. It’s worth checking exact rates with your chosen carrier ahead of time.

Type of Carrier or Service

Courier options matter too. Flying the frame as airline baggage might cost less upfront but comes with risks like handling damage and size restrictions. Using a bike-specific shipping company may cost more but usually provides better packaging and tracking.

If you’re a business shipping bikes in bulk, you may get better rates by working with a 3PL or fulfillment center that handles e-bikes regularly.

Alternatives to International E-Bike Shipping

If shipping your e-bike internationally sounds too expensive or complicated, you’re not alone. Many travelers and cyclists explore other options to avoid the battery and customs headaches. Here are some realistic alternatives that might work better.

Buy a Second Battery Abroad

If you’re traveling to the same destination more than once, buying a second battery at your destination can save you from shipping it back and forth. 

Just make sure it’s 100% compatible with your e-bike model. Some riders choose this route, especially for long-term travel or seasonal trips.

The upfront cost might be high, but you can always sell the battery locally when you’re done.

Rent a Battery at Your Destination

In some popular cycling areas, it’s possible to rent an e-bike battery from a shop or tour provider, though this isn’t common everywhere. You’ll need to do some local research ahead of time and confirm the battery matches your bike’s specs.

This option is best for short trips and well-known brands, where replacement batteries are easier to find.

Store Your E-Bike Overseas

If you’re planning multiple trips to the same country, you could leave your e-bike there between visits. Some bike shops offer storage services, especially in Europe or major cities. Or, if you have friends or family in that country, they might be able to hold it for you.

This saves shipping costs and gives you access to your own bike every time you return.

Rent or Buy an E-Bike Locally

For many riders, the easiest route is just to rent or buy an e-bike when you arrive. This is especially true for casual or one-time trips. Renting avoids all the shipping hassle, and many tourist areas now offer decent e-bike options.

If your trip is longer, buying a used e-bike locally and reselling it later can be cheaper than shipping yours both ways.

Shipping Services and Companies to Consider

You don’t have to do this all alone; there are companies that specialize in shipping electric bikes, including handling the tricky battery part.

Here are a few worth checking out:

• BikeFlights – Offers e-bike shipping within the U.S. (with battery installed) using ground service. Simple online booking and bike-specific boxes available.
• FedEx Ground – Accepts lithium batteries for domestic and some international shipments, but you’ll need certified packaging and proper hazmat labels.
• UPS Ground – Similar to FedEx, they handle hazmat shipping but may require working with a third-party hazardous materials expert.
• Red Stag Fulfillment – Ideal for e-bike businesses. They handle storage, packaging, hazmat compliance, and bulk shipping for e-commerce brands.
• DHL Express (freight only) – Sometimes handles international freight shipments of e-bikes, but not small battery packages. Good for commercial scale.

Final Words

Shipping an electric bike internationally takes more than just throwing it in a box. Between battery regulations, packaging requirements, and customs paperwork, there’s a lot to juggle.

Here’s the short version:

You can often fly with the frame if the battery is removed, but the battery needs to be shipped separately through a hazmat-approved courier. 

Ground shipping is your best bet for safety and legality. If all this sounds like a headache, renting or buying a battery abroad might be a smarter move.

The most important thing? Don’t take shortcuts. Lithium batteries are serious business. Follow the rules, plan ahead, and you’ll avoid delays, fines, or worse.

FAQs

Can I ship my e-bike internationally with the battery installed?

No. Most airlines and couriers do not allow e-bikes to be shipped with batteries installed due to fire risk. The battery must be shipped separately through a certified hazmat service.

How do I ship an e-bike battery overseas?

You’ll need to use a hazmat-certified shipping company like FedEx Ground or a specialized logistics provider. The battery must be packaged and labeled according to international lithium battery regulations.

What is the cheapest way to ship an electric bike?

Shipping the frame as oversized luggage and buying or renting a battery at your destination is often cheaper than full-service shipping with hazmat handling.

Can I rent an e-bike battery abroad?

Sometimes. In major cycling destinations, you might find shops that rent batteries, especially if you use a common e-bike brand. But it’s not a widely available service, so check ahead.

How much does it cost to ship an electric bike internationally?

It typically costs between $300 and $1,000 to ship an electric bike overseas. Prices vary depending on the bike’s size, weight, shipping method, battery handling fees, and destination. Shipping the battery separately as hazardous goods can add a few hundred dollars on its own.