Can an E-bike go on a plane/train?

[Catherine G]

I want to buy a bike while I am in the Northwest but I'll be eventually living in DC. I may need to ship it overseas.

Can I check the e-bike in as luggage on a plane? What do I do with the battery?

Can I put the bike on Amtrack? I guess I'll keep the battery back with me in the cabin. If you took it on Amtrak, how did you lock it up?

 

[christob]

When you get to D.C., give a shout out (I'm just over the river in northern VA.)
No experience with ebikes on planes myself, but I've seen them on Amtrak once or twice, and Amtrak has a page with their bike policies here:
https://www.amtrak.com/bring-your-bicycle-onboard

 

[Nova Haibike]

Can I check the e-bike in as luggage on a plane? What do I do with the battery?

According to the FAA, US DOT regulations limit batteries to 100Wh both for carry-on and checked luggage. (Link Removed - No Longer Exists)

 

[Catherine G]

Thank you. I saw this was for US shipment, but do you know what applies to international shipments.

 

[Nova Haibike]

do you know what applies to international shipments.

I do not. I would call UPS for guidance.

 

[Catherine G]

Thank you. I will check.

 

[Scooteretti]

@Catherine G electric bikes with lithium batteries cannot be checked in as checked baggage on commercial aircraft. Lithium batteries are classified as Dangerous Goods and must be shipped as such.

In order to ship DG (Dangerous Goods), the shipper must be trained accordingly (IATA trained and certified for Air) and the battery must be packed in accordance with regulations (special box, packaging, connector protected etc...). You can contact your local UPS, FedEx, DHL branch (not the general 1-800 #) and see if they have a local certified packer to assist you if you want to proceed. Packing and preparation should cost between $100-$200 + shipping costs.

Wish we were closer as we are DG certified for air, ground, and sea freight.

regards,


Will
shop.scooteretti.com

 

[Catherine G]

Thank you, this was a great answer. I will contact them directly and ask.

 

[Mr. Coffee]

I'm suspecting that you might have good luck contacting a mover.

 

[Scooteretti]

@Catherine G OK good luck!

 

[pdxpaolo]

You can take your bike with you on a plane, but would need to ship the battery separately....via UPS or DHL as examaples