Lithium batteries are classified as dangerous goods (DG) under international transport regulations. Shipping them from China requires strict compliance with IATA (air), IMDG (sea), and national regulations. This guide covers UN classifications, packaging requirements, and carrier restrictions.
Why Lithium Batteries Are Dangerous Goods
Lithium batteries can experience thermal runaway — a self-heating chain reaction that can cause fires or explosions. The risks are:
- Short circuit: Damaged batteries can short-circuit and overheat
- Crushing: Physical damage can breach internal separators
- Temperature: High temperatures accelerate degradation
- Manufacturing defects: Poor quality control can cause internal shorts
UN Classifications
| UN Number | Description | Transport | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| UN3480 | Lithium ion batteries (standalone) | Air: Forbidden on pax; Cargo only | Power banks, battery packs |
| UN3481 | Lithium ion batteries packed with equipment | Air: Restricted | Laptops with spare battery |
| UN3481 | Lithium ion batteries contained in equipment | Air: Restricted | Phones, laptops, tablets |
| UN3090 | Lithium metal batteries (standalone) | Air: Forbidden on pax; Cargo only | Watch batteries, non-rechargeable |
| UN3091 | Lithium metal batteries packed with equipment | Air: Restricted | Devices with spare metal battery |
| UN3091 | Lithium metal batteries contained in equipment | Air: Restricted | Watches, medical devices |
Packaging Requirements
General Requirements for All Lithium Batteries
- Strong outer packaging: Must pass 1.2m drop test
- Inner packaging: Each battery in individual packaging or separated to prevent contact
- Cushioning: Non-conductive, non-combustible material
- Terminals protected: Tape or caps on all exposed terminals
- No loose batteries: All batteries must be secured
- Weight limits: Varies by UN number and transport mode
Air Freight Packaging (IATA PI 965-970)
| UN Number | Section | Max per package | Max battery weight | Labeling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UN3480 | IA | 35 kg | 35 kg per battery | Class 9 + lithium mark |
| UN3480 | IB | 10 kg | - | Lithium mark only |
| UN3481 | II | 5 kg | - | Lithium mark only |
| UN3090 | IA | 35 kg | 35 kg per battery | Class 9 + lithium mark |
| UN3091 | II | 5 kg | - | Lithium mark only |
Sea Freight Packaging (IMDG Code)
Sea freight has more lenient weight limits but still requires: - Class 9 hazard label - Lithium battery mark - UN number on packaging - DG declaration form - Container packing certificate
Documentation Required
| Document | Air Freight | Sea Freight |
|---|---|---|
| Shipper's Declaration for DG | Required | Required |
| UN38.3 Test Summary | Required | Required |
| MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) | Required | Required |
| DG packing list | Required | Required |
| Container Packing Certificate | N/A | Required |
| Air Waybill with DG notation | Required | N/A |
| Bill of Lading with DG notation | N/A | Required |
Carrier Restrictions
Air Freight Carriers
| Carrier | UN3480 (standalone Li-ion) | UN3481 (with/in equipment) |
|---|---|---|
| Cathay Pacific | Accepted (cargo only) | Accepted |
| China Eastern | Accepted (with approval) | Accepted |
| China Southern | Accepted (cargo only) | Accepted |
| DHL Express | Accepted (Section IA/IB) | Accepted |
| FedEx | Accepted (with approval) | Accepted |
Important: UN3480 and UN3090 (standalone batteries) are prohibited on passenger aircraft. They can only ship on cargo aircraft or via sea freight.
Sea Freight Carriers
| Alliance | Carrier | UN3480 | UN3481 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OA | COSCO | Accepted | Accepted | FCL only for large quantities |
| OA | CMA CGM | Accepted | Accepted | Good DG experience |
| Gemini | Maersk | Accepted | Accepted | Strict documentation |
| Premier | HMM | Accepted | Accepted | DG specialist |
UN38.3 Test Requirement
All lithium batteries shipped internationally must pass the UN38.3 Test (UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, subsection 38.3). This requires:
- Altitude simulation (low pressure)
- Thermal test (temperature cycling)
- Vibration test
- Shock test
- External short circuit test
- Impact/crush test
- Overcharge test
- Forced discharge test
Manufacturers must provide a Test Summary document. Without it, carriers will not accept the shipment.
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Request a QuoteFAQ
Can I ship lithium batteries by air from China? Yes, but UN3480 (standalone lithium ion) and UN3090 (standalone lithium metal) can only ship on cargo aircraft, not passenger planes. UN3481 and UN3091 (packed with or contained in equipment) can ship on passenger aircraft with restrictions.
What is UN38.3 and why do I need it? UN38.3 is a safety test standard required for all lithium batteries shipped internationally. It proves the battery can withstand transport conditions without catching fire. You need a Test Summary from the manufacturer before any carrier will accept your shipment.
Can I ship lithium batteries via sea freight? Yes, sea freight is generally easier for lithium batteries. All major carriers accept UN3480/UN3481/UN3090/UN3091 as DG cargo. Requirements include Class 9 labels, lithium battery marks, DG declaration, and container packing certificate.
Do I need a DG-certified forwarder to ship lithium batteries? Yes. Only forwarders with DG (Dangerous Goods) certification can handle lithium battery shipments. They must have trained staff and proper documentation procedures. Always verify your forwarder's DG credentials before booking.
