Lithium Battery Shipping Classifier

Classify shipments for Li-ion and Li-metal batteries (Based on 49 CFR 173.185 / IATA PI 965-970)

Battery Details

If mAh is known, divide by 1000.

About the Lithium Battery Shipping Classifier

Logistics coordinators can rapidly determine rigid regulatory requirements using this lithium battery shipping classifier. By analyzing Watt-hour ratings and lithium content limits, the tool categorizes shipments as either fully regulated Class 9 hazmat or excepted small batteries. Identifying the correct UN number and packaging rules ensures compliance with 49 CFR and IATA regulations, preventing costly carrier rejections.

How it works

  1. Select the battery chemistry type: Lithium Ion (rechargeable) or Lithium Metal (non-rechargeable).
  2. Input the capacity metric: Watt-hours (Wh) for Lithium Ion or grams of lithium metal for Lithium Metal.
  3. Indicate exactly how the battery is packed: standalone, packed with equipment, or contained securely within equipment.
  4. Review the assigned UN number, classification (Section II excepted vs. fully regulated), and all required package marks or hazard labels.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Watt-hour limit for shipping lithium ion batteries as 'excepted' or small?

Under standard 49 CFR and IATA regulations, individual lithium ion cells must not exceed 20 Wh, and multi-cell lithium ion batteries must not exceed 100 Wh to qualify for small battery exceptions.

What is the difference between UN3480 and UN3481?

UN3480 specifically applies to lithium ion batteries shipped completely by themselves (standalone). UN3481 applies to lithium ion batteries that are either packed with equipment or contained inside the equipment.

Do I need a Class 9 hazmat label for all lithium batteries?

No. Excepted small batteries (under 100 Wh) generally require the standard lithium battery handling mark. Fully regulated batteries exceeding those limits strictly require a specific Class 9 Lithium Battery hazard warning label.

What is the State of Charge (SOC) rule for air transport?

IATA regulations mandate that standalone lithium ion batteries (UN3480) shipped via air transport must be maintained at a State of Charge not exceeding 30% of their rated design capacity to prevent thermal runaway.

References