What is the classification of UN3481?
UN3481 is classified under Class 9 of hazardous materials, specifically for lithium-ion batteries contained in equipment or packed with equipment during transport. This classification applies to batteries integrated into devices (e.g., laptops, medical devices) or shipped alongside them. Class 9 covers miscellaneous hazardous substances, and UN3481 addresses fire risks from lithium-ion batteries due to short circuits or thermal runaway under improper handling.
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What distinguishes UN3481 from other lithium battery classifications?
UN3481 specifically applies to lithium-ion batteries packed with or installed in equipment, unlike standalone batteries (UN3480). For example, a smartphone with a non-removable battery shipped internationally requires UN3481 labeling. Pro Tip: Always verify if batteries are “contained in” or “packed with” equipment to avoid misclassification penalties.
UN3481 falls under Class 9’s “miscellaneous dangerous goods” due to its fire risks under mishandling. Unlike UN3090 (lithium metal batteries), UN3481 focuses on lithium-ion chemistries. Regulatory frameworks like IMDG Code and IATA DGR mandate specific packaging tests (e.g., 1.2m drop test) and state-of-charge limits (≤30% for air transport). A real-world example: Shipping a pallet of cordless power tools with integrated batteries requires UN3481-compliant packaging, including inner insulating sleeves and outer UN-marked boxes. Failure to comply risks fines up to $50,000 per violation under DOT regulations. But how do you determine if a battery is “packed with” equipment? If the equipment and battery are in the same package but not physically connected (e.g., a camera and its spare battery), UN3481 still applies.
What are the packaging requirements for UN3481 shipments?
UN3481 mandates UN-certified packaging with cushioning materials and leak-proof design. For instance, a 2023 penalty case fined a company $10,000 for using non-compliant cardboard boxes lacking UN specification marks.
Packaging must pass rigorous testing, including stacking (24 hours at 7 kPa pressure) and vibration simulations. Inner packaging requires non-conductive separators between batteries and equipment to prevent short circuits. A common setup includes polyethylene bags for individual batteries, surrounded by fire-resistant fiberboard partitions. Pro Tip: Use outer packaging with a minimum 200 Bursting Strength test rating for ocean freight. For air transport, additional requirements apply: batteries must be at ≤30% state of charge, and packages cannot exceed 30 kg gross weight. Consider this analogy: Shipping UN3481 batteries is like transporting glassware—both need shock-absorbing layers and rigid external protection. What happens if you ignore these rules? A 2024 Shanghai Customs case imposed a $4,200 fine for using unapproved containers, emphasizing strict enforcement.
| Requirement | Ocean Freight | Air Freight |
|---|---|---|
| State of Charge | ≤50% | ≤30% |
| Max Net Weight | No limit* | 35 kg per package |
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FAQs
Yes, unless exempted under Section II of PI 967. Prototypes must pass UN38.3 testing and include “Prototype Lithium Batteries” labels.
Can UN3481 batteries be shipped via passenger aircraft?
No. IATA bans UN3481 from passenger flights—use cargo aircraft only, with “Cargo Aircraft Only” markings on air waybills.