Hazardous Materials: Reducing Burdens on Domestic Companies Using Battery-Powered Equipment in Trades
Key claim: PHMSA’s final rule raises the maximum allowable quantities of lithium batteries that may be carried as Materials of Trade, easing an undue regulatory burden on construction, landscaping, food-service, and similar trade companies.
Abstract
(Rule · Transportation Department, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration) This final rule modernizes the Materials of Trade (MOT) exception in the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) by increasing the maximum allowable quantities of lithium batteries that can be transported as MOTs. This increase removes an undue regulatory burden which constrains the ability of construction, landscaping, mowing, tree service, food service, and entertainment companies to perform their trade.
Why this matters
The Materials of Trade exception governs how tradespeople legally carry hazardous materials—including lithium batteries powering cordless tools and equipment—without full HAZMAT compliance. Raising the MOT quantity limits reflects the growing electrification of trade equipment and reduces a regulatory friction point for small businesses, while keeping the underlying safety framework for larger lithium-battery shipments intact.