GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 23, 2026
Electric Battery Cargo Transport Standards
Knowing the regulatory framework for lithium battery shipments is essential for avoiding cargo holds, carrier refusals, and liability exposure.
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Source: https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/dgr/
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Definition & Explanation
Knowing the regulatory framework for lithium battery shipments is essential for avoiding cargo holds, carrier refusals, and liability exposure. Depending on battery type (lithium-ion or lithium-metal), state of charge, and quantity shipped, consignments are assigned UN numbers such as UN 3480 or UN 3481 and classified under hazard class 9. The applicable ruleset is mode-specific: IATA DGR governs air freight, the IMDG Code applies at sea, ADR covers road, and RID covers rail – each with distinct packaging, marking, labelling, and documentation requirements. For every shipment, the responsible party must determine whether a small-quantity exemption applies or a full dangerous goods declaration is required. Misclassification or documentation errors routinely result in shipment stops and, for air cargo, can lead to permanent embargo by the carrier.
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