Last updated October 2026 · 1 min read
In this guide 6 sections
UN classifications
| UN number | What it covers | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| UN3481 | Lithium-ion batteries contained in or packed with equipment | Laptops, phones, cameras, drones with batteries fitted or in the box |
| UN3480 | Lithium-ion batteries shipped alone | Spare drone batteries, power banks |
| UN3091 | Lithium-metal batteries in or with equipment | Some devices with coin cells |
| UN3090 | Lithium-metal batteries shipped alone | Spare lithium-metal cells |
Ground shipping
Ground shipments within North America are the simplest. Devices with batteries installed ship with standard packaging and the required lithium battery mark when thresholds are met. Carriers publish their own additional rules.
Air shipping
Air shipments follow IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. Batteries shipped alone (UN3480) face the strictest limits, including a maximum state of charge for many shipments and restrictions on passenger aircraft. Large batteries may need full dangerous-goods documentation.
Packing rules of thumb
- Protect terminals from short circuit.
- Prevent devices from switching on in transit.
- Use strong outer packaging.
- Mark and label packages as required by quantity and battery size.
Power banks
Power banks are batteries shipped alone (UN3480). Many carriers restrict them by air, so ground shipping is usually best.
How we handle it
We classify, pack, mark and declare every battery shipment correctly. When you use your own carrier account, tell us the service level so we prepare the right documents.
Rules change regularly. This guide is an overview; carriers and IATA regulations are the authoritative sources.