Shipping lithium batteries can be a complicated task and the regulations can differ depending on the type of lithium battery and the mode of transport. 

Lithium batteries are a “Class 9 – Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods”. This corresponds to any one of the following classifications:

• UN 3090
• UN 3480
• UN 3091
• UN 3481

Each of these UN numbers have specific regulations to adhere to. Full regulations can be found in the relevant Dangerous Goods Regulations  for your mode of transport, or for a quick overview of the regulations view our handy guide to lithium battery regulations.

Due to the dangerous goods classification, there are a number of requirements for packaging lithium batteries ready for shipment. 

This includes but is not limited to: 

• Cells and batteries passing relevant 38.3 UN tests.
• Battery terminals are protected against short circuits.
• Following the correct packaging requirements (Inner and outer packaging).
• Following packaging limits.
• Adding the correct marks and labels to the packaging.
• Supplying the required documentation. 

There are tougher regulations when it comes to shipping prototype, damaged/defective and lithium batteries for disposal or recycling. Air transport of these lithium batteries is forbidden and can lead to fines if not adhered to. If you are transporting these types of lithium batteries via air you need to ensure that you refer to the state of origin, the state of operator as well as special provisions set out in IATA regulations.

At Air Sea Containers, we recommend speaking to trusted experts in the packaging industry to ensure that you are following the correct rules and regulations. 

Before sending lithium batteries out for delivery, you need to make the courier service aware of what you are sending. That allows them to provide the right service and take the right precautions with dangerous goods. Along with the correct packaging for lithium batteries, there needs to be the right documentation that accompanies the delivery. 

Boxes need to be marked clearly with the following labels:

• Battery handling label
• Class 9 – Dangerous Goods label
• Cargo aircraft only label (if applicable for Air)
• Lithium Batteries Forbidden for transport label (if applicable)
• Relevant UN number label
• Any other related marks/labels

These labels have specific requirements, so it is important to consult the correct guidelines before shipping your batteries. 

As well as these labels, you will also be required to provide relevant documentation depending on the size and type of battery you are shipping. Consult your preferred courier to understand the relevant documentation that you require.

While UN 3481 and UN 3091 both pertain to lithium battery products, they have different regulations and meanings.

UN 3481

UN 3481 lithium ion batteries are class 9 dangerous goods. 

They can be either of the following:

• A lithium ion battery contained in the equipment. 
• A lithium ion battery packed with the equipment,.

UN 3091

UN 3091 lithium metal batteries are class 9 dangerous goods.

They can be either of the following:

• A lithium metal battery contained in the equipment.
• A lithium metal battery packed with the equipment.

Depending on the features of the battery you are sending, for both UN 3841 and UN 3091 there are different requirements that need to be considered. These include:

• Mode of Transport
• Type of Battery (Damaged, prototype, 38.3 tested etc)
• Weight of the battery
• Watt-hour rating
• State of Charge 

It is important to ensure you follow the correct regulations for your lithium batteries. That will allow for the safe transport and delivery of your lithium battery products.