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Lithium-ion batteries, given their energy density and potential risks during transit, are subject to strict shipping regulations worldwide. Shipping labels for these batteries often feature a series of standardized numbers and symbols, each with specific meanings to help ensure safe and compliant transport. Here’s a breakdown of these numbers and their significance in the context of lithium-ion battery logistics.
1. UN Number
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UN3480: Lithium-ion batteries shipped separately, not contained in or with equipment.
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UN3481: Lithium-ion batteries packed with or contained in equipment.
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UN3090: Lithium metal batteries (non-rechargeable) shipped separately, not contained in or with equipment.
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UN3091: Lithium metal batteries packed with or contained in equipment.
These four UN numbers cover the primary classifications for shipping lithium-based batteries. The distinction between lithium-ion (rechargeable) and lithium metal (non-rechargeable) batteries, as well as whether they are shipped with or without equipment, determines which UN number is applicable.
2. Packing Group (PG)
The Packing Group number indicates the level of danger associated with the item. For lithium-ion batteries, the Packing Group is usually not specified because these batteries are classified as Class 9 hazardous materials, which cover miscellaneous dangerous goods. This classification underscores the potential hazards of lithium-ion batteries, such as the risk of short circuits, overheating, or fires, particularly when mishandled or damaged.
3. Watt-Hour Rating
Another crucial number is the watt-hour (Wh) rating. This value indicates the energy capacity of the battery and is vital for determining both packaging and labeling requirements. Lithium-ion batteries typically fall into one of the following categories:
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≤ 100 Wh: These batteries are generally used in portable electronics, such as laptops, phones, and cameras, and are allowed in passenger aircraft, subject to specific packaging and labeling requirements.
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> 100 Wh: Batteries in this range are usually for higher-powered devices, like power tools or medical equipment, and are subject to more stringent regulations, especially in air transport.
For shipping, the watt-hour rating is essential as it directly impacts whether the battery qualifies as “excepted” under certain regulations, potentially simplifying compliance requirements.
4. State of Charge (SoC) Percentage
Some shipping labels display the state of charge (SoC) of the battery in percentage form. This number is crucial for air transport as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) limits lithium-ion batteries to a 30% charge or lower for cargo-only flights. This measure helps mitigate the risk of thermal runaway—a condition where the battery rapidly heats up due to a short circuit or failure, posing a fire hazard.
5. Quantity Limits
The quantity limit specifies the maximum allowable quantity of lithium-ion batteries in each package or shipment, a number determined by the mode of transport (air, ground, or sea). These limitations, expressed in numbers or weight (often in kilograms), aim to reduce the risk associated with transporting large volumes of lithium-ion batteries, which could amplify hazards during accidents.
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Passenger Aircraft: Limits are more restrictive due to safety concerns in crowded environments.
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Cargo Aircraft and Ground Transport: Allows for larger quantities, though packages often require additional hazard labels and documentation.
6. Hazard Class Number
Lithium-ion batteries are categorized under Hazard Class 9 (miscellaneous dangerous goods). This number signifies that, unlike flammable liquids or toxic materials with specific classes, lithium-ion batteries present unique risks, including those of fire and hazardous reactions. The Class 9 designation is prominently displayed on shipping labels alongside a specialized symbol to alert handlers of these dangers.
7. Safety and Handling Instructions
Most shipping labels include abbreviated safety instructions, sometimes displayed as numerical codes referring to specific handling instructions and emergency protocols. For lithium-ion batteries, these numbers might denote measures like:
In addition to these printed instructions, some labels may include QR codes or website links where shippers and handlers can access comprehensive safety guidelines and protocols in multiple languages.
8. Certification Numbers
Some countries require certification numbers or approval codes specific to their regulatory bodies. These numbers confirm that the battery complies with all applicable safety standards and performance tests, such as UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, Subsection 38.3. This section outlines the rigorous testing lithium-ion batteries must undergo to ensure resilience during transport, covering aspects such as altitude simulation, thermal tests, vibration, and impact testing.
9. Tracking and Batch Numbers
To ensure traceability, many lithium-ion battery shipping labels include tracking or batch numbers. These numbers, often assigned by the manufacturer or shipper, allow for detailed record-keeping and the ability to quickly identify and locate a particular shipment batch. In the event of a recall, safety inspection, or damage report, these tracking numbers provide essential information to facilitate efficient communication and resolution between parties involved.
10. Date Codes and Expiration Dates
Lithium-ion batteries have a finite shelf life due to the gradual degradation of chemical components over time. Some labels include date codes or expiration dates to indicate when the battery was manufactured and its recommended usage period. While batteries can sometimes function past this date, their performance and safety may diminish, and older batteries pose higher risks of failure, especially under stressful conditions like transport. Keeping an eye on these date indicators is crucial for ensuring batteries are shipped and used within safe timeframes.
11. Compliance Codes for Specific Regions
Different countries and regions may have unique regulatory requirements for the shipment of lithium-ion batteries. Compliance codes on labels signal adherence to these local standards, demonstrating that the battery meets specific regional laws and guidelines. For instance:
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ADR (European Agreement Concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road): Indicates compliance with European road transport regulations.
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CFR (Code of Federal Regulations): Relevant for lithium-ion batteries shipped within the United States, ensuring compliance with U.S. standards.
These codes give shippers, customs officials, and handlers confidence that the package meets all regional safety and handling protocols, helping facilitate smoother international shipments.
12. Symbols for Special Handling Instructions
To support quick visual recognition, shipping labels for lithium-ion batteries often display universal symbols to guide handlers on special care requirements. Some common symbols include:
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Flame symbol: Denoting the flammable nature of the battery and signaling that it should be kept away from heat and open flames.
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“Up” arrows: To indicate correct orientation for the package, reducing the likelihood of mishandling or accidental inversion during transport.
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Temperature-sensitive icon: Alerting handlers that exposure to extreme temperatures may compromise the battery’s safety and performance, which is especially important for lithium-ion products.
13. Documentation Reference Numbers
Certain shipments, particularly those involving larger or specialized lithium-ion batteries, require additional documentation such as Safety Data Sheets (SDS) or Dangerous Goods Declarations. Labels may feature reference numbers for this paperwork, allowing handlers to quickly retrieve the necessary documents. These references ensure that relevant safety information is accessible during transit and can be cross-referenced if additional instructions are needed.
14. QR Codes or Digital Information Access
Many modern shipping labels for lithium-ion batteries are adopting QR codes or other digital markers, providing a convenient link to real-time tracking, expanded safety information, and even interactive handling guides. These codes bridge the gap between static labels and dynamic, up-to-date information, helping all parties involved stay informed about any changes in regulations, routing, or special instructions during transit.
Final Thoughts
The numbers and symbols on lithium-ion battery shipping labels serve a complex purpose: to encapsulate safety, compliance, and logistical details in a compact format. Understanding these notations is not only crucial for compliance but also enhances the overall safety of transporting lithium-ion batteries across the world. Whether you’re a manufacturer, logistics provider, or handler, familiarity with these numbers and their meanings is an invaluable part of ensuring smooth, safe, and efficient battery transportation.
