How to shipping lithium battery safely:Tips and Methods
A better understanding of lithium battery transportation guidelines and regulations will help us to better arrange for the shipment of goods that need to be transported by air, sea, or land.
Introduction: The Growing Importance of shipping lithium batteries
Lithium battery have begun to provide electric power for most families,so battery goods we need to touch every day,your cell phone ,laptop,power bank ,domestic electric appliance(UAV,sweepper etc.) and e-scooter,electric wheelchair.We need the battery for power output everywhere.due to increasing use of high-power batteries.so the battery pack energy density higher and higher,in short,battery goods have greater risk.so we need a effective safety regulations to keep everyone.
Based on IATA about shipping lithium batteries regulatons,lithium battery goods are considered DG Class 9,and in the transportion of lithium batteries by sea ,by air and by land have strict regulations.Pls view IATA’s regulations and guidance in shipping lithium ion batteries：
https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/dgr/lithium-batteries/
Please see the list below,make sure you to be more know about citeria and influences in shipping batteries.
Explanation of stored energy
As the name implies,lithium battery are used to supply energy to products,and it’s often used in E-cars,power tools ,cell phone and other products .
In addition this,Lithium batteries are divided into:lithium-ion batteries and lithium metal batteries.
Lithium metal battery are mostly non-rechargeable batteries,and contains lithium metal, so it’s called lithium metal batteries.Have highter“energy density”widely used in
e-watch ,hearing aids,etc.There are primarily rechargeable products that need use of lithium metal battery.
Lithium battery are more common in recent years.It’s a newer technology.it no lithium metal.But need retains a hight energy density,and has the advantage of being
rechargeable at the same time.So it’s safer than lithium metal batteries.But it still more risky. Lithium ion batteries are mainly widely used in ,laptop ,cell phone,etc.
We know about lithium batteries from above,Why regulations for shipping lithium batteries so import innowadays.About regulations, including UN38.3 about the battery transportation.
In summary ,from a transportation point of view,battery goods are considered dangerous,which is reason thay are technically classified as hazardous materials.
So many aviation accidents caused by lithium batteries catching fire during flight.Like the2011 Asiana Airlines and the 2010 UPS Airlines crashes.
Those accidents were basic on the battery short circuits and fires,which the need for strick packaging requirements for lithium batteries.If we have the proper packaging can significantly reduce the risk of short circuits,hence protecting people’s lives and property.
Lithium batteries are highly prone to "thermal runaway."
If the internal structure of a lithium battery is subjected to pressure or deformation, it can lead to changes in the internal organization, causing a rise in temperature. As a single battery begins to release heat, it can affect adjacent batteries, causing them to overheat as well, which could eventually result in a fire.
For these reasons,lithium batteries are class 9 dagerous goods .requiring specialized packaging handing,and transportation requirements （such as UN3480 and related regulations）
Nowadays,Lithium batteries are becoming more and more widespread,which is reasons they are receiving more attention.
Lithium batteries are now used in electric vehicles,e-bike,scooters,cell phone.laptops, and power tools. The demand for batteries is need have high performance, lightweight, and longer battery life. Given the current market environment, Increasing demand for batteries, and their is also impoving.
However, with such widespread using, the risks also increase. Although lithium batteries in products are generally safe and subject to strict requirements,low-quality batteries and those that have been repaired have a pose significant risks.
In the next 10 years, more and more products will use lithium batteries,maybe have 2-3 times more growth.Consequently, the increased risks will compel regulatory bodies to adopt more effective measures.
Increasingly stringent regulations for lithium batteries shipping
As of 2024,the usage of lithium batteries have more increased,need to the transportation regulations for the two types of lithium batteries. As mentioned earlier,the greatest risk in Shippng lithium batteries is the possibility of short circuits,which are a major cause of fires.Therefore, most of the new regulations are focused on packaging and transportation requirements for batteries,and reducing the likelihood of hazards during the transportation of lithium batteries.
The battery transportation rules are as follows:
1. First, ensure the battery itself is properly labeled with clear markings, including voltage, capacity, power, and battery type.
2. Make sure the batteries do not come into direct contact with each other. Improper insulation can easily lead to short circuits, especially for polymer batteries with exposed positive and negative leads.
3. Place the battery in an inner box and ensure it does not move or shake to prevent short circuits.
4. Different packaging apply to UN3480/UN3481 and UN3090/UN3091.
The lithium batteries is belong to UN3480 class9
The following are UN regulations:
1. UN3090 for Lithium metal batteries
2. UN3480 for Lithium-ion batteries
3. UN3091 for Lithium metal batteries contained in or packed with products.
4. UN3481 for Lithium-ion batteries contained in or packed with products.
There are different "lithium battery shipping label" requirements for transporting lithium batteries, and the type of label needed depends on the following factors:
1. Whether the lithium battery is contained within the products.
2. The battery goods is a lithium metal batteries or a lithium-ion batteries.
3. For batteries, a single cell exceeds 20Wh adn the battery pack exceeds 100Wh.
If you need more detailed information, pls refer to download guide
Technical Information
The transportation of any dangerous goods requires professional training and the organization of relevant personnel for training.
Below is about technical information regarding the UN’s IMO (International Maritime Organization), ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road), and IATA (International Air Transport Association) regulations.
UN3480 is lithium ion batteries,which are further categorized into low-power batteries(cells less than 20Wh, battery packs less than 100Wh) and high-power batteries (cells greater than 20Wh, battery packs greater than 100Wh).
UN3481 is equipment containing lithium-ion batteries,also known as built-in batteries.
regardless of whether shipping which battery goods ,it must comply with the United Nations Manual of Tests and Criteria.Specifically meet all test requirements listed in Part III, Section 38.3.
If you need detailed information ,please visit the relevant UN resources.
According to the requirements of Chapter 2.9.4 of the UN Model Regulations, the manufacturer of the cells or battery packs should (depending on local customs export requirements) provide quality certification from the local factory.
From 2024 Lithium Battery Guidance Document:
The lithium battery by road
About the lithium batteries’s road transport requirements.the ARD and RID have relevant provisions
For lithium batteries classified under UN3480/UN3090, the packaging requirements in ADR and RID are mainly specified in sections 188, 230, 310, 348, and 376 of ADR 3.3.1 and RID 3.3.1. Under the provisions of section 188, small lithium batteries can be exempt from certain ADR and RID regulations under specific conditions, provided that the batteries’ voltage, capacity, and power (Wh) comply with the regulations, and they are properly packaged and labeled.
Packaging Requirement for Road transport:
The packaging need to use compliant packaging materials,including materials that prevent short circuits, are fire-resistant, and have a certain level of impact resistance.The packaging need to meet packaging requirement of UN3480 and UN3090。
Marking and Labeling Requirements for Road Transport:
ADR/RID Sections:
Refer to:
1. ADR 5.2.1.1 for UN codes
2. ADR 5.2.2.2.1 for dangerous goods labels
Marking & Labeling:
1. The packaging need have the UN number, such as UN3480 or UN3090.
2. A Class 9 dangerous goods label must be affixed.
Documentation Requirements:
1. The dangerous goods transport document as per ADR 5.4
2. The dangerous goods transport document as per RID 5.4
All specific requirements for the transport of lithium batteries can be found in the following sections of the ADR and RID:
ADR/RID 2023 Edition.
https://adrbook.com/en/2017/ADR/3.3.1#google_vignette
https://unece.org/DAM/trans/danger/publi/adr/guidelines/ADR_Guidelines_Telematics_e.pdf
In the sea shipment ,If you need shipping the battery goods ,IMO and IMDG Code have Strict regulations，IMDG Code is currently a globally recognized rule,that Provisions on the safety of dangerous goods during maritime transport.The following are the transportation requirements and regulations for shipping lithium batteries by sea:
1. Class of Batteries: UN3480/UN3481 and UN3090/UN3091. Lithium batteries are primarily classified as Class 9 DG.
2. Packaging Requirements for Shipping Lithium Battery By Sea:The IMDG Code specifies packaging instructions in Chapter 4.1, with detailed packaging requirements outlined in 4.1.4.
Packaging Instructions:
1. UN3480 and UN3090 (standalone lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries) must be packaged according to specific IMDG Code packaging requirements, using PI965 and PI968 packaging methods.
2. The packaging must withstand the harsh conditions encountered during maritime transport, preventing short circuits, compression, and damage.
3. Packaging must meet UN certification standards and comply with the required performance criteria for containers.
Marking and Labeling:
1.Refer to IMDG Code 5.2.1 for UN numbers and proper shipping names.
2.Refer to IMDG Code 5.2.2 for dangerous goods labels.
Packaging must clearly display the UN number (e.g., UN3480). The outer container must be labeled with a Class 9 dangerous goods label and a lithium battery handling label. If required, also affix the “Cargo Aircraft Only” label.
Documentation Requirements:
lIMDG Code 5.4.1 for DG Declaration
lFor your shipment,the DG declaration is required,detailing the nature of the goods,quantity,packaging,UN numbe,shipping name and emergency contact information
lThe declaration must include instructions for crew and operators on handling emergencies.
Handing and Operations:
lIMDG Code 7.1 for handling regulations and 7.2 for loading and unloading requirements.
lHanding Requirement:Lithium batteries must be protected from any damage during transport. During maritime transport, the batteries must be securely fixed in the cargo hold to prevent movement and damage due to ship movement.
Transport Vehicles and Container Requirements:
Refer to IMDG Code 5.5.3 for temperature control requirements.
The Transport Containers:
1. Proper packaging must be used to ensure that lithium batteries are protected from extremes of temperature, humidity and severe physical shock during shipment.
2. Sensitive batteries should be transported in temperature controlled containers.
Reference:
All specific requirements for maritime transport of lithium batteries can be found in the following sections of the IMDG Code:
IMDG Code 2022 Edition (Amdt 41-22)
In air shipment,the shipping of lithium batteries is strictly regulated by IATA thought DGR.The IATA-DGR specifies the specific requirements for lithium battery air transport to ensure safety during the shipping process. Below are the specific requirements for transporting lithium batteries:
1. Classification of Batteries:
• Lithium-ion batteries: UN3480, UN3481
• Lithium metal batteries: UN3090, UN3091
• Dangerous Goods Classification: Classified as Class 9 dangerous goods, categorized as ‘Miscellaneous Dangerous Substances.’
2. Packaging Instructions:
• UN3480, for standalone lithium-ion batteries, must be packaged according to PI965 packaging requirements; UN3090, for standalone lithium metal batteries, must be packaged according to PI968 packaging requirements.
• Lithium batteries must be packed in sturdy inner boxes to prevent movement during transport, which could lead to short circuits.
• Section II: Small batteries, i.e., cells under 20Wh and battery packs under 100Wh, can be packaged in general packaging, such as neutral boxes, but will have strict weight limits and labeling requirements.
3. Marking and Labeling
IATA-DGR 5.2 markings and labels
The outer box packaging must be marked with the UN code and the name of the transportation battery, such as: UN3480 lithium ion battery" or "UN3090 lithium metal battery"
Class 9 dangerous goods labels and lithium battery handling labels must be exercised
A "cargo aircraft special label" label is required
4. Article requirements:
lIATA-DGR 8.1 Dangerous Goods Cargo Declaration Form
lFor air transportation of lithium batteries, a dangerous goods declaration form is required along with the goods, detailing the UN number of the goods, dangerous goods classification, packaging description, shipper and consignee information
lRegarding Section II: If you need to exempt the dangerous goods declaration form, you need to indicate the information on the waybill.
Reference:
All specific requirements for air transport of lithium batteries can be found in the following sections of the IATA-DGR:
IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (2024 Edition)
If you have already imported lithium batteries in China, or are preparing to import lithium batteries, please make sure to comply with the points raised above, if you need to have further assistance to help you do the transportation, I hope you can find our company (Guangzhou JMD International), we are specializing in doing the freight forwarding agent of dangerous goods, we have 20 years of experience in the field of transportation of lithium batteries, we have a fixed cooperation with the customers, Linde Times, Xinda, Tianjin Lishen, BYD and other large factories, if you urgently need, please leave your contact information.
Bill Guo is a senior expert in logistics and supply chain. As a JMD sales manager and physical expert, he plays a key role in the development of the industry. He has more than ten years of experience in the logistics industry. His expertise has repeatedly delivered high-quality services to customers. Bill Guo's writings show his deep understanding of the industry. They offer valuable advice and leadership to customers and peers.
Bill Guo
Sales Manager ▏JMD
Email:Bill@jmdchina.com ▏info@jmdforwarder.com
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