Lithium Battery Storage and Shipping : A Guide

     Lithium Batteries are in everything nowadays. You can check out this article on lithium batteries to see exactly where they are installed and how many devices you may have that you are unware of that contain this magical element.

    But let us take it back a moment. The history of lithium and mining is a pretty amazing story, let us use the magic of the internet and AI a bit to recap how we all got here.

The history of lithium mining traces the discovery, development, and increasing global demand for this critical metal, driven largely by its use in batteries and technology. Here's a timeline of the major milestones in the history of lithium mining:

1. Discovery of Lithium (1817)

• Early Discovery: Lithium was discovered by Swedish chemist Johan August Arfvedson in 1817 while analyzing the mineral petalite. He identified a new element within the mineral but did not isolate it. The name "lithium" comes from "lithos," the Greek word for stone, as it was found in solid minerals.
• Isolation (1855): The first isolation of lithium metal was done by German chemists Robert Bunsen and Augustus Matthiessen through electrolysis of lithium chloride.

2. Early Uses and Mining (Late 1800s - Early 1900s)

• Pharmaceuticals: Lithium salts were initially used in psychiatric treatments, particularly for mood stabilization, starting in the late 19th century.
• First Lithium Production: Small-scale lithium production began in the late 1800s, focusing on extracting lithium from mineral sources like spodumene. Early mining operations were primarily focused in the U.S. and Europe.

3. Lithium in Glass and Ceramics (1920s - 1950s)

• Lithium mining gained importance in the 1920s when lithium carbonate began being used as a flux in glass and ceramic industries. It was found to improve strength, thermal resistance, and the quality of ceramic products.
• Spodumene Mining: Spodumene, a lithium-rich mineral, became a primary source of lithium, with significant mining activities starting in the U.S., particularly in North Carolina.

4. Cold War and Military Demand (1940s - 1960s)

• Nuclear Applications: During the Cold War, lithium production spiked due to its role in producing lithium-6, a critical component in the production of hydrogen bombs. The U.S. government increased lithium extraction to meet military needs.
• Global Production Expansion: As demand grew, new lithium sources were explored in countries like Canada and Australia. Australia, in particular, began large-scale spodumene mining.

5. Rise of Lithium Brine Extraction (1960s - 1980s)

• Chilean and Bolivian Deposits: In the 1960s, significant lithium brine deposits were discovered in the salt flats of Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina, also known as the "Lithium Triangle." This region became an important source of lithium due to its vast lithium-rich brines.
• Brine Extraction: Lithium brine extraction emerged as a more cost-effective method than mining lithium from hard rock. The process involves pumping lithium-rich brine to the surface, evaporating the water, and extracting lithium compounds like lithium carbonate. Chile became a major global supplier.

6. Lithium in Batteries and Electronics (1990s - 2000s)

• Lithium-Ion Batteries: The development of lithium-ion batteries in the late 20th century, pioneered by chemists like John B. Goodenough, revolutionized lithium demand. These rechargeable batteries, first commercialized by Sony in 1991, became essential for portable electronics like laptops, mobile phones, and later, electric vehicles (EVs).
• Boom in Demand: As the world entered the digital age, the demand for lithium grew exponentially, particularly from the consumer electronics industry. Countries like Australia, Chile, and Argentina became major producers.

7. The EV and Renewable Energy Boom (2010s - Present)

• Electric Vehicles (EVs): The rise of electric vehicles, driven by companies like Tesla, Nissan, and others, fueled a lithium mining boom. Lithium-ion batteries are the key energy storage technology for EVs, leading to a massive surge in global lithium demand.
• Energy Storage Systems: Lithium batteries are also essential in renewable energy storage, allowing solar and wind power to be stored for use when needed. This further boosted lithium's importance in the global energy transition.

8. Current and Future Trends (2020s and Beyond)

Ok did you get through all of that ? We hope so but it is very important information as the packing, shipping, storage, and transportation of lithium is a very detailed process. You must be licensed, insured, trained, and experience in the field as not only human but environmental hazards can result from mishandling.

Now that we have an understanding of how this all came to be storage of lithium batteries must meet the following criteria.

Storing lithium batteries safely is crucial to prevent hazards such as fires, leaks, and explosions. Here’s a guide on how to safely store lithium batteries:

1. Store in a Cool, Dry Place

• Temperature Range: Store lithium batteries at room temperature, ideally between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Avoid exposing them to extreme heat or cold, as high temperatures can lead to thermal runaway, and freezing temperatures can degrade the battery’s performance.
• Avoid Humidity: Ensure that the storage area is dry to prevent moisture from penetrating the battery, which can cause corrosion or short circuits.

2. Use Fireproof Containers

• Fireproof Cabinets/Containers: If you are storing a large number of lithium batteries or high-capacity ones (e.g., for power tools or electric vehicles), use a fireproof container or cabinet to contain any potential fire or explosion.
• Avoid Flammable Materials: Store batteries away from flammable materials (e.g., paper, cloth, chemicals) to reduce the risk of fire spreading in the event of a battery malfunction.

3. Partial Charge for Long-Term Storage

• Optimal Charge Level: For long-term storage, lithium-ion batteries should be stored at a charge level between 30% and 50%. Fully charged or fully depleted batteries are more prone to degradation and instability.
• Avoid Fully Charging: Storing fully charged batteries for extended periods can increase stress on the cells, reducing their lifespan.

4. Separate Batteries from Metal Objects

• Prevent Short Circuits: Ensure that batteries do not come into contact with metal objects such as keys, coins, or tools, which could cause short circuits. Use battery cases, individual packaging, or store batteries in their original packaging to keep terminals separated.
• Avoid Stacking Batteries: Do not stack or pile batteries directly on top of each other, especially loose batteries. This can lead to physical damage or accidental short-circuiting.

5. Ventilation

• Ensure Proper Airflow: Store lithium batteries in a well-ventilated area to allow any gases produced in case of a battery malfunction to disperse safely.
• Avoid Sealed Containers: Do not store batteries in tightly sealed containers without proper ventilation, as this can trap heat and increase the risk of thermal events.

6. Check for Damage

• Inspect Regularly: Regularly check stored batteries for signs of damage such as bulging, cracks, leaks, or corrosion. Damaged batteries pose a higher risk of fire and should be disposed of properly according to local regulations.
• Avoid Using Damaged Batteries: Do not store or use batteries that show any signs of physical or chemical damage.

7. Fire Safety Precautions

• Fire Extinguishers: Keep a Class D fire extinguisher (suitable for lithium battery fires) or a fire blanket nearby the storage area. Lithium battery fires cannot be extinguished with regular water or CO2 fire extinguishers.
• Safety Protocols: If you are storing lithium batteries in an industrial or commercial setting, establish clear safety protocols and train personnel on how to handle battery-related fires or incidents.

8. Avoid Overcrowding

• Spacing: Ensure batteries are spaced apart to prevent heat buildup and to allow air to circulate between them. This reduces the risk of overheating and improves safety in case of a malfunction.
• Avoid Overloading Shelves: Don’t overload storage shelves with too many batteries, especially if they are large-capacity ones. Overcrowded batteries are more prone to accidental damage or heating.

9. Label Batteries Clearly

• Label for Identification: If you are storing multiple types of lithium batteries, clearly label them to identify their type, capacity, and charge level. This makes it easier to manage storage and reduce the risk of using incompatible or damaged batteries.
• Track Storage Time: For large-scale storage, it’s useful to mark the date of storage to track how long the batteries have been stored. Rotate stock regularly to ensure batteries are used before their performance degrades.

10. Separate Charged and Discharged Batteries

• Charged vs. Discharged: If storing multiple batteries, separate fully charged batteries from partially or fully discharged ones. This reduces the chance of an uncontrolled discharge, which could lead to overheating or other issues.

11. Avoid Physical Impact

• Protect from Drops and Damage: Store batteries in a location where they will not be dropped or knocked over. Physical impact can cause internal damage, leading to short circuits or fires.
• No Heavy Loads: Avoid placing heavy objects on top of stored batteries, as this could cause punctures or damage.

There was recently a huge cargo container carrying over 75,000 lbs of lithium that overturned on the I-15 from Las Angeles to Las Vegas on it's way to Wisconsin that caused a multi-day fire that shut down the highway.

What about disposal ??

Proper Disposal of Old Batteries

• Recycle: Do not store old or used lithium batteries indefinitely. Dispose of them through authorized battery recycling programs to prevent environmental hazards and fire risks.
• Follow Local Regulations: Be sure to follow your region’s specific disposal guidelines for lithium batteries, as improper disposal can be dangerous.

13. Emergency Plans

• Develop an Emergency Response Plan: If storing lithium batteries in a workplace or industrial setting, have a clear emergency plan for battery-related incidents, including fire and explosion scenarios.
• Training: Train employees or household members on how to safely store and handle lithium batteries, and what to do in case of an emergency.

By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with lithium battery storage and ensure a safe environment.

We here at Las Vegas Crating and Logistics meet all government, federal, and state qualifications and certifications when it comes to the proper handling, shipping, transportation and storage of all lithium services. We hope that this article helped you out and please look up this article on lithium battery storage for more information.

Warehouse Storage Solutions for Collections, Art, and More

 Las Vegas Crating and Warehouse LogisticsLas Vegas Crating and Warehouse Logistics is a revolving door of some amazing collections from events, conventions, art galleries, and more. It is a challenging and exciting adventure as no two items are usually ever the same. We have had to create some of the worlds largest crates and develop an unmatched creativity in being able to manage some of the cargo we manage.

Here we had the opportunity with a few auctions and the bounty was large.

The value of vintage gas station pumps and signs at auction can vary widely based on several factors, including rarity, condition, age, brand, and historical significance. Here’s an overview of what can make these items valuable and some examples of high auction prices:

Factors Influencing Value

1. Brand Recognition:

   • Popular Brands: Items from well-known brands like Texaco, Shell, Mobil, and Standard Oil are generally more sought after.
   • Defunct Brands: Signs and pumps from brands that no longer exist can also be highly valuable due to their rarity.

2. Condition:

   • Original Condition: Items in their original, unrestored condition can be very valuable, especially if they have a good patina.
   • Restored Items: High-quality restorations can also fetch high prices, particularly if the restoration is historically accurate.

3. Rarity:

   • Limited production models or unique designs are more valuable.
   • Items with features like unique graphics, color schemes, or early technological advancements (e.g., first electric pumps) can attract higher bids.

4. Age:

   • Early models, particularly from the 1920s to the 1950s, are often more valuable.
   • Items from significant periods in automotive history (like the post-World War II boom) may also be more prized.

5. Historical Significance:

   • Items that have historical context or were used in notable locations can add value.
   • Pumps or signs featured in movies or associated with famous events can command higher prices.

Examples of High Auction Prices

1. Gas Pumps:

   • Wayne 60 Gas Pump: A fully restored Wayne 60 gas pump, which is a classic design from the 1930s, can sell for $10,000 to $20,000.
   • Tokheim 39: A restored Tokheim 39 gas pump from the 1940s or 1950s can fetch $5,000 to $15,000, depending on condition and detailing.
   • Bennett 150: Original or well-restored Bennett 150 gas pumps from the 1930s have been known to sell for $8,000 to $12,000.

2. Gas Station Signs:

   • Porcelain Signs: Large, original porcelain signs from major brands like Texaco or Mobil can sell for $5,000 to $30,000. For example, a large Texaco double-sided porcelain sign with the star logo might sell for upwards of $10,000.
   • Neon Signs: Vintage neon signs, especially those from the 1930s to 1950s, can be extremely valuable. A well-preserved Mobil Pegasus neon sign can sell for $15,000 to $25,000.
   • Rare Brands: Signs from lesser-known or defunct brands can be highly valuable. For instance, a rare Sinclair Aircraft single-sided porcelain sign has fetched over $50,000 at auction.

Recent Auction Examples

• Texaco Fire Chief Gasoline Sign: Sold for $13,200.
• Mobil Pegasus Porcelain Sign: Sold for $27,500.
• Sinclair Aircraft Porcelain Sign: Sold for $57,500.
• Wayne 60 Gas Pump: Sold for $18,000 (restored condition).
• Tokheim 850 Clockface Pump: Sold for $15,500 (restored condition).

Where to Find Auction Values

• Specialty Auctions: Auctions specializing in automobilia or petroliana often have the most accurate pricing.
• Online Auction Houses: Websites like Mecum Auctions, Barrett-Jackson, and RM Sotheby’s frequently auction these items and provide past auction results.
• Collector Websites: Sites like Petroliana.com provide insights into current market values and trends.

Conclusion

Vintage gas station pumps and signs are highly collectible, and their value at auction can be significant. Collectors and enthusiasts prize these items for their historical significance, aesthetic appeal, and nostalgic value. If you own or are interested in these pieces, keeping an eye on specialty auctions and collector markets will provide the best insight into their current worth.

Give us a call or check out our website at Https://lasvegaswarehouse.com for more.

Las Vegas Crating and Warehousing

 Yes we are still around and bigger and better than ever before. Our business is only growing and we are going to be continuing on our packing, shipping, crating, and logistics with full service warehousing.

Our operations have expanded far past our main headquarters and needed another 10,000 square feet to get us through a busy few months. 

Street View 4640 Polaris Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89103

We realized quickly how fast ten thousand square feet can fill up between fine art galleries, auction house holdings, wine, liquor, convention events, personal, and private collections. Our clients needed both short and long term storage needs, so after some expensive security and camera upgrades, Las Vegas Warehouse opened.

Directly across the street from our Las Vegas Crating & Logistics main office, our forklifts, trucks, and team can fulfill and offer all of our services from one convenient location.

Before long all sorts of interesting and unique pieces started flooding our floors and racks, and we hope to be able to share some of the amazing finds that pass through our doors as some of it is not here for long until it moves onto it's next destination.

The Shipping and Logistics Business

 We here at Las Vegas Crating and Logistics spend our days and lives in the business of shipping and logistics.

Let us outline a little bit about what exactly it is that this is all about.

Shipment means the product you want to ship AND Logistics means the process of shipping or moving your shipment from the point of origin to the point of destination. logistics is a part of the supply chain which already have a different kind of activities such as ordering, purchasing, forwarding, warehousing.

Logistics refers to the overall process of managing how resources are acquired, stored, and transported to their final destination. Logistics management involves identifying prospective distributors and suppliers and determining their effectiveness and accessibility.

A logistics system (LS) is a network of organizations, people, activities, information, and resources involved in the physical flow of products from supplier to customer. Distribution: The transportation of finished products from plants to a network of stocking locations (warehouses) and from there to end users.

Logistics can be split into five types by field: procurement logistics, production logistics, sales logistics, recovery logistics, and recycling logistics. Each of these is explained in detail, but first we should learn about logistics fields and types.

What is the difference between shipping and logistics then ?

While the term ‘shipping‘ denotes the dates when the shipment leaves the warehouse of the supplier, the term ‘delivery‘ stands for the date when the package will arrive at the doorstep of the customer.  A major difference is the size of the shipment and the package

What is the role of logistics ?

Logistics actually has many roles. The most well known role of logistics is sales logistics that moves products from the producer to the consumer. In addition to sales logistics, logistics can also be split into four other roles depending on the field. These are procurement logistics, production logistics, recovery logistics, and recycling logistics.
The roles of logistics feature transportation/delivery, storage, packaging, cargo handling, distribution processing, and information processing, and many systems have been put in place to deliver products from the production location or factory to the consumer quickly and on time.

Differences in Freight, Supply Chain Shipping, and Freight

1. Maritime Industry anything related to the ocean, sea, ships, navigation of ships from point A to point B, seafarers, ship owning and other related activities..
2. Shipping Business the act of carriage of cargo from point A to point using the ships which falls under the Maritime industry..
3. Freight the cargo that is carried using the shipping services offered by the shipping lines using the ships which falls under the Maritime industry..
4. Logistics Services the processes involved in getting the cargo from the manufacturers warehouse to the receiver’s warehouse including arranging for shipping services offered by the shipping lines using the ships which falls under the Maritime industry..
5. Supply Chain the whole granddaddy process comprising of all aspects in a product cycle, for example from picking of the fruit at a farm in Point A to delivering the fruit to the shelf at a store in Point B using all of the above-mentioned industries, businesses and services..
6. Trade is the basic economic concept involving buying and selling of goods and services, with compensation paid by a buyer to a seller, or the exchange of goods or services between parties.. Trade is the reason all above businesses from 1-5 exist..

7. 
   

8. So What is Shipping Logistics Then ? TLDR;

   Shipping logistics management involves resource planning, organization, management of trailers across the carrier’s offices, execution, and control of the transportation of your shipped items. It is well known that the idea of logistics began in the military.
9. 
   

Vapor Moisture Bag Shipping

 Las Vegas Crating and Logistics is offering the service of vapor and moisture bag shipping.

This quite complex process for delivery of your fragile items and perishables often requires special VCI Mylar bags to help prevent corrosion, acid, degeneration, salt sea spray, and other airborne contaminants that might damage your international cargo.

Vintage antique items, metals, and other rare materials require often a special level of care and service to ensure they are delivered safely. Take a look at what the industry is offering as it could mean saving and preserving your belongings or having them arrive at a detrimental cost.

Moisture barrier bags are often refereed to as foil bags, alufoil bags, or Mylar bags. We recommend these as shipping materials as they are the most effective solution for packaging that you can find on the market to protect against all types of damage. Moisture, oxygen, salt spray, aromas, airborne contaminants, and grease are all potential hazards.

Valuable Electronics are ensured safe travel as these Moisture Vapor Bags are specially designed down to the molecular level to be heat resistant and puncture proof. 

Las Vegas Crating and Logistics has striven to be the leader in innovation and technology when it comes to packing and shipping services as we not only serve local, residential, and domestic, but international as well. Your safe delivery at the most affordable price is our goal.

Box Brothers Las Vegas New Ownership

We here at Las Vegas Crating and Logistics are very happy and proud to announce that Box Brothers on Sahara Ave. In Las Vegas is now under new ownership!

Yes Chris and Brandy Long are expanding their reach within the industry to a familiar concept and location.

Box Brothers has been a mailing and shipping industry leader for over twenty years. With their location on Sahara now being ran by Chris and Brandy and their family, this little store packs quite a punch.

Moving and Shipping supplies are now in stock ! You can come by anytime and pick up all of the mailing and packaging items you need from bubble wrap to packing peanuts. We are renovating the store, cleaning up, and doing a full re-stock.

Not only that but we do offer the most competitive pricing anywhere when it comes to specialty items and moves. So many other independent ran mailing companies charge such a premium just to use their basic services and store that it is unfair to the customer.

Our Box Brothers Yelp reviews have been amazing as well as Box Brothers Google Reviews

The main location Las Vegas Crating and Logistics over off W. Harmon Ave is still our main warehouse for all of the large storage and shipping and custom crate building. But our Sahara location is perfect for

• Mailing
• Parcels
• USPS
• FedEX
• Courier Services
• UPS
• Postal
• Mail Supplies
• Shipping Supplies
• Convenient walk in
• Post Service Tracking

Local, domestic, world-wide, and international it is all covered.

Address: 6384 W. Sahara, Las Vegas, NV 89146

Phone: 702-227-6384

• Moving Boxes and Shipping Boxes
• Packaging and Crating Specialists
• Freight Shipping and Logistics
• Serving Las Vegas and surrounding areas
• Small Moves and LTL and FTL shipping
• International Shipping and Packing Supplies
• Experts in Art and Antique Shipping
• Furniture and Ebay Shipping
• AAA members get special discounts
• Recycled Boxes Available in store
• Member of the Better Business Bureau
• 25 Years of Experience

Contact us to learn more about our box sizes and services!

Or come see Las Vegas Crating and Logistics for all other specialty moves.

Franchising Your Packing and Shipping Store

Franchising Your Packaging and Shipping Store ( The Ultimate Guide ) In 2018

We recently teamed up with Jenny Childs over at FranchiseYOU! to come up with these top industry helpful tips on franchising your local or national business.

Franchising can be such an overwhelming undertaking. Thankfully there are professional franchise agents and brokers out there to help guide you along your path.

You do not have to be alone on this journey of manifest destiny and outward expansion. We here at Las Vegas Crating and Logistics recently published an article on how to franchise your business over at

Franchising Your Packing and Shipping Store

Jenny Childs runs and operates FranchiseYOU! Which is a business that helps place potential franchisors into the right business model.

We found that our industry is ranked as one of the top 25 franchise categories that has the most growth. Packing, Mail, Shipping, Crating, and Freight Services make up over 11% of the total U.S. economy ! How is that for some numbers and facts. 

With such growth we knew a guide needed to be available to help people find their way through the trenches of consultants, brokers, agents, and legal paperwork that is often required to get the ball rolling. It is a daunting task that could be very discouraging, but finding the right agent to work with you will only help your business grow to multiple profit and revenue producing locations.

Our days are filled with working hand in hand with our professional crating experts who are busy building shipping and boxing materials for clients who require specialized transportation for their antiques and vintage items, thankfully trustworthy honest help is out there. Hopefully any readers click on the links and discover the steps to take when beginning a franchise.