Ecosafe America

Transporting lithium batteries, by Ecosafe

Published March 4, 2026

Transporting lithium batteries, by Ecosafe

Transporting lithium batteries is possible, subject to certain conditions. Lithium-ion batteries have become an essential component in many everyday applications. However, their transport is subject to strict regulations due to the potential risks they pose. The conditions for transporting batteries are governed by specific regulations for dangerous goods (such as the ADR for road transport), which evolve in line with European Regulation 2023/1542 . - State of Charge (SoC) This is one of the most significant changes for air and road safety: 30% limit: Since 1 January 2026, the 30% maximum charge rule has been tightened. It now applies not only to batteries shipped on their own ( UN 3480 ), but also to batteries packed with equipment ( PI 966 ). Objective: To reduce the available energy in the event of a ‘thermal runaway’ (fire) during transit. - Classification and Labelling Each package must be clearly identified by its UN number: UN 3480 / 3481: Lithium-ion batteries (on their own or with equipment). Marking: The ‘battery on fire’ pictogram is mandatory, accompanied by the UN number and, for air transport, the wording ‘Cargo Aircraft Only’ if the battery is prohibited on passenger flights. - Defective or damaged batteries The transport of ‘critical’ batteries (swollen, leaking or having caught fire) is extremely restricted: They must be transported in specific approved packaging (often with non-combustible and insulating cushioning material). Since 2025, a specific provision ( SV 677 ) imposes very strict conditions for these batteries, which are considered to present a high risk of decomposition. - Obligations under Regulation 2023/1542 In addition to physical safety, the carrier and the consignor must ensure traceability : Compliance check: The distributor/carrier must ensure that the batteries being transported bear the CE marking and the QR Code required by the regulation. Documentation: A summary of the tests ( UN 38.3 ) proving that the battery has passed the safety tests (impact, vibration, short circuit) must be available immediately upon request. - Staff training Anyone involved in preparation, packaging or transport must have received certified training (ADR for road, IATA for air). In 2026, training requirements were tightened even for “limited quantities”. Key benefits of our lithium transport case Safety and compliance Laser engraving : The approval number is easily visible to regulatory bodies. Reusable case : Designed for repeated use, provided packaging instructions are followed. Practical and robust No individual packaging : Batteries do not need to be individually packaged. Stackable and durable case: Designed to withstand shocks and vibrations during transport. Simplicity and efficiency These features make our lithium transport case an ideal choice for safe transport that complies with current regulations. Option to fit a padlock : Up to 2 eyelets to secure the contents. Simplified packaging and dispatch: Facilitates logistics procedures.

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