Are You Following Lithium Battery Shipping Laws?

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) enforces strict lithium battery shipping regulations to ensure safety. If you’re shipping lithium batteries, especially under classifications such as UN3480 or UN3481, it’s critical to verify that you meet the most recent compliance standards..

For packages containing primary lithium batteries, packages are required to be marked with an indication that they contain lithium batteries, and that these lithium batteries are forbidden for transport aboard passenger aircraft. The most common method to indicate this is to include lithium battery labels on the package being shipped. You can view the full regulations at the Federal Register site to read about Hazardous Materials: Harmonization With International Standards (RRR).

UN3480 vs UN3481: What’s the Difference?

UN3480 refers to lithium-ion batteries shipped by themselves, while UN3481 applies to lithium-ion batteries packed with or contained in equipment. Both classifications fall under Class 9 hazardous materials and require specific packaging, labeling, and documentation. Choosing the right UN number ensures your shipment aligns with lithium battery shipping regulations.

Labeling Requirements for UN3480 vs 3481 Shipments

UN3480 refers to standalone lithium-ion batteries, while UN3481 covers batteries packed with or in equipment. Each requires specific labeling—typically Class 9 labels and UN identification numbers – along with warnings for air transport restrictions. For full regulation details, refer to the PHMSA and Federal Register.

Shop DOT – Compliant Lithium Battery Labels

The Supplies Shops offers a range of lithium battery shipping labels that meet DOT and UN3480/UN3481 compliance. Choose from bold text-only labels or highly visible pictographic labels designed to ensure your packages are correctly marked and compliant.
	Our popular 4-5/8” x 5” Caution! Lithium Battery label meets key shipping regulations and helps handlers identify hazardous packages. Each roll contains 500 labels, and bulk orders of 2 or more rolls qualify for additional savings. Orders over $99 ship for free.

Have any questions about lithium battery shipping regulations or UN3480 vs UN3481 labeling? Contact our support team at [email protected] or call us at 855-473-9921.