What items are UN3481?
UN3481 designates lithium-ion batteries packed with or installed in equipment during transport under international hazardous materials regulations. This classification applies when batteries are either integrated into devices or shipped alongside them in the same packaging. Examples include consumer electronics like smartphones, laptops, and Bluetooth devices, as well as appliances such as handheld fans, robotic vacuum cleaners, and medical equipment containing non-removable batteries.
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What products fall under UN3481?
Common UN3481 items are lithium-powered devices where batteries stay connected during shipping. This includes drones with integrated power systems, GPS units, and portable diagnostic tools. Pro Tip: Removable batteries shipped separately require UN3480 labeling instead.
Transport rules differentiate between standalone batteries (UN3480) and those in operational contexts. For example, a digital camera with a built-in battery qualifies as UN3481, while its replacement battery sold separately falls under UN3480. Transitional phrase: Beyond consumer goods, industrial equipment like wireless sensors in manufacturing plants also requires UN3481 compliance. Warning: Never mix UN3480 and UN3481 items in the same shipment without proper segregation.
How does UN3481 differ from UN3480?
UN3480 covers loose lithium-ion batteries, while UN3481 applies exclusively to batteries functioning within devices. A power bank alone is UN3480, but when packaged with a smartphone, both become UN3481. Practically speaking, this distinction prevents improper handling of energy sources in different operational states.
| Feature | UN3481 | UN3480 |
|---|---|---|
| Packaging | With equipment | Batteries only |
| Typical Use | End-user devices | Replacement cells |
Are electric vehicles UN3481?
No, battery-powered vehicles use UN3171 classification. While containing lithium batteries, EVs like e-bikes and scooters require specialized transport protocols different from device-embedded power systems. Transitional phrase: This exception highlights the importance of application-specific regulations in hazardous material shipping.
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FAQs
Yes, if packed with the device—even uninstalled batteries in retail packaging qualify when shipped alongside their intended host equipment.
Can UN3481 items air freighted?
With proper certification and <30% state of charge, but passenger aircraft prohibit lithium battery shipments over 100Wh capacity.
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