What are the shipping guides for lithium cells & batteries?

For the purposes of this document, the ways to describe and configure packages of lithium cells and batteries, including smaller cells and batteries, are divided between ten distinct, standalone shipping guides. The shipping guides are numbered Guide 01 - Guide 10.

What is a lithium battery guide for shippers?

LITHIUM BATTERY GUIDE FOR SHIPPERS A Compliance Tool for All Modes of Transportation Revised October 2024 WWW.PHMSA.DOT.GOV 2 INTRODUCTION This compliance resource was prepared to assist a shipper to safely package lithium cells and batteries for transport by all modes of transportation according to the latest regulatory requirements.

What are the classification and shipping requirements for lithium-ion batteries?

The classification and shipping requirements for lithium-ion batteries depend on their size and energy capacity (Watt-hours). For standalone batteries. Strict UN-certified packaging. IUMI strongly supports the SoC limit of 30% for air freight and advocates similar principles for maritime transport.

What are the new packaging requirements for lithium ion batteries?

Revised Packing Instructions: More stringent requirements for UN-certified packaging, capable of withstanding specific drop tests. State of Charge (SoC) Emphasis: Increased scrutiny on the SoC for standalone lithium-ion battery shipments, with a general requirement not to exceed 30% of rated capacity.

What are the requirements for a lithium battery?

• Except for vehicles transported by highway, rail, or vessel with prototype or low production lithium batteries securely installed, each lithium battery must be of a type that has successfully passed the UN 38.3 tests, unless approved by PHMSA's Associate Administrator.

How many G of lithium batteries are required for transportation?

32 • For highway and rail transportation only: Cells that exceed 1 g, but do not exceed 5 g, and batteries that exceed 2 g, but do not exceed 25 g, the text marking “LITHIUM BATTERIES—FORBIDDEN FOR TRANSPORT ABOARD AIRCRAFT AND VESSEL” is required.