Marking

Lithium-metal batteries must be clearly marked for shipping, though not if the net weight is less than 5 kilograms. The markings are not required for ground shipments, nor are they required for packages of four or fewer cells or two or fewer batteries. Acceptable markings include the following:

• "PRIMARY LITHIUM BATTERIES - FORBIDDEN FOR TRANSPORT ABOARD PASSENGER AIRCRAFT"
• "LITHIUM METAL BATTERIES - FORBIDDEN FOR TRANSPORT ABOARD PASSENGER AIRCRAFT"
• "LITHIUM ION BATTERIES - FORBIDDEN FOR TRANSPORT ABOARD PASSENGER AIRCRAFT"

Alternately, the "CARGO AIRCRAFT ONLY" marking may be used.

These markings are now required on all packages containing lithium batteries, whether packed alone or in equipment, if the package exceeds 5 kg, and pertains to all methods of shipping.

Indications on the markings must display the following information:

• That the package contains lithium-ion or lithium-metal cells or batteries
• That the package should be handled with care and that it could result in a flammable hazard if damaged
• Any special procedures to follow if the package is damaged, including any necessary inspection and repackaging
• A telephone number for any additional information

All lithium batteries that qualify for small cell exception must exhibit the lithium battery mark. Exceptions are granted for packages that contain button cell batteries that are installed in equipment or those that have no more than four lithium cells or two lithium batteries contained in equipment (where there are no more than one package in the consignment).

If the package being shipped contains lithium-metal cells or batteries, it must contain UN number UN3090. If the package being shipped contains lithium-ion cells or batteries, it must contain UN number UN3480. If lithium cells or batteries are contained within or packed within equipment, the UN numbers UN3091 or UN3481 must be indicated.

Lithium battery marks must adhere to the following requirements:

• The mark must be in the form of a rectangle with hatched edging.
• The mark must be no less than 120 millimeters (4.7 inches) wide by 110 millimeters (4.3 inches) high.
• The minimum width of the hatching must be 5 mm (0.2 inches); however, markings of 105 millimeters (4.1 inches) wide by 74 millimeters (2.9 inches) high may be used on a package containing lithium batteries when the package is too small for the larger mark.
• The symbols and letters must be black on white or a suitable contrasting background. The hatching must be red.

To learn more about Lithium Batteries HAZMAT visit our DOT Lithium Batteries HAZMAT Online Training web page.