UN numbers identify dangerous goods. Here are all lithium battery classifications including 2025 additions.
Lithium-Ion Batteries (Rechargeable):
- UN 3480: Lithium ion batteries (standalone)
- UN 3481: Lithium ion batteries contained in equipment OR packed with equipment
Lithium Metal Batteries (Non-rechargeable):
- UN 3090: Lithium metal batteries (standalone)
- UN 3091: Lithium metal batteries contained in equipment OR packed with equipment
NEW for 2025 - Sodium Ion Batteries:
- UN 3551: Sodium ion batteries (standalone)
- UN 3552: Sodium ion batteries in/with equipment
NEW for 2025 - Electric Vehicles:
- UN 3556: Vehicle, lithium-ion battery powered
- UN 3557: Vehicle, lithium metal battery powered
- UN 3558: Vehicle, sodium ion battery powered (Replaces UN 3171, transition period until March 31, 2025)
Packing Instructions (PI):
| UN Number | PI | Description |
|---|---|---|
| UN 3480 | PI 965 | Li-ion standalone |
| UN 3481 | PI 966 | Li-ion packed with equipment |
| UN 3481 | PI 967 | Li-ion contained in equipment |
| UN 3090 | PI 968 | Li-metal standalone |
| UN 3091 | PI 969 | Li-metal packed with equipment |
| UN 3091 | PI 970 | Li-metal contained in equipment |
Section IA vs IB:
- Section IA: >100Wh, CAO (Cargo Aircraft Only), max 35kg
- Section IB: ≤100Wh, CAO only, max 10kg
- Section II: ≤100Wh, limited quantities, passenger aircraft allowed
For OBC Context: As passengers, you're not shipping under these UN numbers. But understanding them helps when:
- Explaining to security what batteries you carry
- Documenting shipment contents for customs
- Communicating with airlines about approval requests