Lithium-ion cells and batteries must be offered for transport at a state of charge not exceeding 30% of their rated capacity. This becomes a mandatory requirement on 1 January 2026.
The lithium batteries must be of a type that have successfully passed the UN38.3 tests and contain the necessary systems to prevent overcharge and over discharge between the batteries.
What are the packaging requirements for lithium ion batteries / cells?
ACS - No requirements. UN3481, Lithium Ion Batteries / Cells – PI967 Section II. The equipment must be packed in strong rigid outer packaging. Large equipment can be offered for transport unpackaged or on pallets when the cells or batteries are afforded equivalent protection by the equipment in which they are contained.
What are the shipping requirements for a lithium ion battery?
All packages prepared in accordance with Packing Instruction 968, Section IA, IB and II, must bear a Cargo Aircraft Only label, in addition to other required marks and/or labels. All lithium ion cells and batteries (UN 3480 only) must be shipped at a state of charge (SoC) not exceeding 30% of their rated capacity.
Lithium batteries fall into two broad classifications; lithium metal batteries and lithium ion batteries. Lithium metal batteries are generally non-rechargeable and contain metallic lithium. Lithium ion batteries contain lithium which is only present in an ionic form in the electrolyte and are rechargeable.
Does the test summary requirement apply to lithium ion batteries?
Yes. The test summary requirement applies to manufacturers and distributors of lithium or sodium ion cells and batteries. Therefore, a test summary must be made available for lithium or sodium ion battery-powered vehicles and other vehicles containing lithium or sodium ion batteries. C.10 Is the test summary valid for a defined period?
Lithium cells and batteries are Class 9 (miscellaneous) hazardous materials. There are eight possible descriptions for lithium cells and batteries, depending on the battery chemistry. These descriptions, or proper shipping names, are found in the Hazardous Materials Table (HMT) in § 172.101 of the HMR.