California Battery Fee: Compliance Guide for US Lead-Acid Battery Importers

California requires a refundable core charge on lead-acid batteries sold in the state. Understanding this requirement is essential for any distributor selling in the US market.

The California Battery Fee

California Public Resources Code Section 1501 requires a $1.50 to $5.00 core charge on all lead-acid batteries sold at retail in California. The fee is refundable when the old battery is returned.

Who Must Comply

Retailers: Must charge the core charge at point of sale and refund it when the old battery is returned.

Importers: Must ensure batteries are properly marked with the California battery fee amount.

Distributors: Must pass core charge requirements through the supply chain.

Compliance Requirements

Marking: Batteries must be marked with the core charge amount clearly displayed.

Collection: Retailers must accept used lead-acid batteries at point of sale.

Reporting: Quarterly reports to CalRecycle documenting batteries sold and cores collected.

CHISEN supports US partners with California compliance documentation and marking requirements.

FAQ

Q: Does this apply to B2B sales? A: The California battery fee applies to retail sales. B2B sales between distributors may have different requirements depending on the transaction structure.

Q: What is the current fee amount? A: $1.50-$5.00 depending on battery type and size. Verify the current amount with CalRecycle as rates are subject to adjustment.

Need help? Contact CHISEN’s technical team.

Email: sales@chisen.cn

www.chisen.cn

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