What is a UN3481 Label?
Lithium-ion batteries are classified as dangerous goods due to their risk of fire if damaged or improperly handled. The UN3481 label is an essential part of safely shipping lithium-ion batteries contained in or packed with equipment. This guide covers everything you need to know about UN3481 labels, their requirements, and best practices for compliance.
Before understanding the specifics of the UN3481 label, it’s important to know why it exists. The label is a regulatory requirement for safely transporting lithium-ion batteries contained in or packed with equipment. It communicates potential hazards to carriers, shippers, and emergency responders, helping reduce the risk of accidents during transit.
The UN3481 label is a standardized hazardous material label that identifies lithium-ion batteries shipped contained in equipment or packed with equipment. It alerts carriers and emergency responders to the potential risks associated with these batteries.
The label ensures safe handling, proper packaging, and compliance with international regulations, including IATA (air transport) and DOT (U.S. ground transport) requirements. Its purpose is to reduce the risk of fire and chemical hazards during transit.
UN3480 labels are used for standalone lithium-ion batteries that are not contained in equipment, while UN3481 labels apply to batteries that are either contained within equipment, such as a laptop or camera, or packed alongside equipment, like spare batteries in the same package.
Understanding this distinction is essential for selecting the correct label and ensuring proper shipping compliance.
Lithium-ion batteries are classified as dangerous goods, and shipping regulations require different labels depending on how the batteries are packaged. UN3481 labels are one type of these labels, specifically for batteries in or with equipment. Understanding the broader landscape of lithium battery labels will help ensure compliance and safe handling.
UN3481 covers lithium-ion batteries of various sizes and capacities when shipped with or in equipment, including:
Consumer electronics (laptops, smartphones, cameras)
Industrial equipment batteries
Spare lithium-ion batteries packed with devices
Compliance with UN3481 label requirements is mandatory for safe transport. This section explains what information must be included on the label, the size and placement requirements, and materials considerations to ensure labels remain visible and legible throughout the shipping process.
UN3481 labels must clearly display the UN number, UN3481, along with a lithium battery handling statement, such as “Lithium ion batteries in compliance with Section II of PI967.” The label should also include package orientation markings where applicable and the standard hazard symbols, including the battery icon with flame, to communicate the potential risks to carriers and emergency responders.
The standard size for a UN3481 label is typically 100mm × 100mm, though this can vary depending on carrier rules. Labels must be clearly visible, legible, and easily identifiable to ensure safe handling throughout the shipping process.
UN3481 labels should be placed on the outside of the package in a location where they are not covered by tape, wrapping, or other markings. When other shipping or hazard labels are present, the UN3481 label should be positioned nearby to maintain visibility and ensure regulatory compliance.
Shipping lithium-ion batteries is regulated by international and domestic safety rules. Following the UN3481 shipping requirements ensures compliance and minimizes the risk of accidents during transport. This section covers exceptions, placard requirements, and additional documentation that may be necessary.
Certain packages may be exempt from UN3481 labeling requirements, particularly those containing very small batteries below a specified watt-hour (Wh) rating. Exemptions vary depending on the carrier and regulatory authority, so shippers should verify applicable rules before labeling.
For large shipments exceeding certain quantity thresholds, a hazard placard may be required on the transport vehicle or container. These placards must follow ICAO/IATA and DOT regulations to communicate the presence of lithium-ion batteries to carriers and emergency personnel.
Depending on the mode of transport and quantity of batteries, a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods may be required. Shippers must also provide documentation showing compliance with Section II of PI967 when applicable to ensure regulatory adherence and safe handling during transit.
Ensure your shipments meet all regulatory requirements with GMP Labeling’s solutions. GMP provides both stock and custom UN3481 labels that comply with IATA, DOT, and IMDG standards. The labels are made from durable materials that withstand handling and transport. Custom printing options including logos, serial numbers, and barcodes make it easy to tailor labels to your needs. Expert guidance ensures your labeling and documentation are fully compliant. With GMP, you can simplify compliance, reduce shipping risk, and ship lithium-ion batteries with confidence.
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