Lithium batteries shipping is one of the most regulated segments of global logistics due to the fire, explosion, and safety risks associated with lithium-powered products. Airlines, shipping lines, and regulators apply strict rules on classification, packaging, labeling, and quantities. Non-compliance results in shipment rejection, fines, or serious safety incidents.
📍 DisMove, operating from Guangzhou, provides fully compliant lithium battery shipping solutions across air, sea, and road transport.
❓ Why Are Lithium Batteries Regulated?
🔋 Lithium batteries pose risks because they can:
🔥 Overheat or ignite
⚡ Short-circuit
💥 Explode if damaged or improperly packed
For this reason, lithium batteries are classified as Dangerous Goods (Class 9).
🧪 Types of Lithium Batteries
Lithium batteries fall into two main categories:
🔋 Lithium-Ion Batteries (UN3480 / UN3481)
📱 Phones, laptops, power banks
🚗 EV batteries
🖥️ Electronics & industrial equipment
🔋 Lithium-Metal Batteries (UN3090 / UN3091)
⌚ Watches
🧸 Toys
📟 Medical & tracking devices
Each type has different shipping rules.
🏷️ UN Numbers & Configurations
Lithium batteries are shipped under specific UN numbers:
| UN Number | Description |
|---|---|
| UN3480 | Lithium-ion batteries (standalone) |
| UN3481 | Lithium-ion batteries packed with / contained in equipment |
| UN3090 | Lithium-metal batteries (standalone) |
| UN3091 | Lithium-metal batteries packed with / contained in equipment |
Standalone batteries face the strictest controls.
✈️ Air Freight Regulations (IATA DGR)
Air transport rules include:
✈️ Quantity & state-of-charge limits
🚫 Restrictions on passenger aircraft
📄 Mandatory Shipper’s Declaration
🏷️ Lithium battery handling labels
📦 UN-tested packaging
Many lithium batteries can only fly on cargo aircraft.
🚢 Sea Freight Regulations (IMDG Code)
Sea transport requires:
🚢 IMDG-compliant packaging
📦 Proper container segregation
📜 Dangerous Goods Manifest
🔥 Fire risk management measures
Sea freight is often preferred for large battery volumes.
🚚 Road Transport Regulations (ADR)
Road transport requires:
🚚 ADR-compliant packaging & labeling
📄 Transport documents
🎓 Trained drivers (for certain quantities)
Local regulations may apply.
📦 Packaging Requirements
Lithium battery packaging must:
📦 Be UN-certified
🧱 Prevent movement & short-circuit
🛡️ Protect against damage
📄 Match the applicable packing instruction
Improper packaging is the main cause of rejection.
🏷️ Labeling & Documentation
Required elements include:
🏷️ Lithium battery handling labels
📄 UN number & proper shipping name
📜 Shipper’s Declaration (when required)
📄 Test summary (UN 38.3)
Missing documents cause automatic delays.
🔐 Safety, Training & Compliance
Lithium battery shipping requires:
🎓 DG-trained personnel
📋 SOPs & emergency procedures
🧯 Fire risk mitigation planning
Training is legally required.
🧠 How DisMove Manages Lithium Battery Shipments
DisMove ensures compliance by:
✅ Verifying battery type & UN number
✅ Confirming UN 38.3 test reports
✅ Selecting approved carriers
✅ Preparing compliant documentation
✅ Managing airline & carrier acceptance
Lithium shipments are handled only by DG-certified teams.
⚠️ Common Lithium Battery Shipping Mistakes
🚫 Undeclared lithium batteries
🚫 Incorrect UN number selection
🚫 Missing UN 38.3 test summary
🚫 Non-UN packaging
🚫 Attempting passenger aircraft shipment
These errors cause fines and blacklisting.
❓ FAQ — Lithium Batteries Shipping
❓ Are all lithium batteries considered DG?
➡️ Yes—Class 9.
❓ Can lithium batteries be shipped by air?
➡️ Yes—with strict limits.
❓ Is sea freight safer for lithium batteries?
➡️ Often—yes for large volumes.
❓ Is UN 38.3 testing mandatory?
➡️ Yes—without exception.
❓ Does DisMove handle EV battery shipping?
➡️ Yes—subject to regulations.
🚀 Ship Lithium Batteries Safely with DisMove
Lithium battery logistics requires absolute regulatory precision. DisMove ensures your shipments move legally, safely, and without disruption—across global supply chains.
📧 Request lithium battery shipping support:
enquire@dismove.com