UN3480 & UN3481 Lithium Battery Labels: What You Need to Know

Shipping Lithium Batteries? Understanding UN3480 & UN3481 labelling rules is crucial for your packaging. Lithium batteries power much of the modern world, but when it comes to transport, they present serious risks—particularly fire. That's why shipments containing lithium-ion batteries fall under strict international regulations.

Whether you're dispatching a small consumer device or a large industrial battery pack, compliance is non-negotiable. Improper labelling can lead to fines, shipping delays, and, most importantly, safety hazards. Our guide delves into the specifics of UN3480 and UN3481, ensuring your labels are tough enough to survive the journey and provide undeniable visual alerts for safety.

What Are UN3480 and UN3481?

UN3480 refers to lithium-ion batteries shipped on their own. UN3481 covers lithium-ion batteries packed with or contained in equipment (e.g., a phone, laptop, or tool). These classifications fall under Class 9: Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods, and are subject to labelling and packaging requirements set by IATA (air), IMDG (sea), and ADR (road) regulations.

Which Labels Are Required?

Depending on the mode of transport and battery configuration, you may need:

Class 9 Lithium Battery hazard label (with battery/flame icon - minimum 100x100mm)
Lithium Battery Handling Mark (diamond shape with red dashed border, UN number, and contact phone number)
Cargo Aircraft Only label (mandatory for UN3480 shipped by air)
Overpack marking if shipping multiple inner packages inside a single outer container

The Materials That Keep You Compliant

Your labels need to stick and remain legible throughout the journey, often in challenging conditions. Standard paper labels won't cut it. For lithium battery shipments, robust materials are essential.

**Synthetic Materials:** Polyester, polypropylene, or vinyl are highly recommended. They are resistant to moisture, chemicals, abrasion, and temperature fluctuations.
**Strong Adhesives:** Choose a permanent, high-tack adhesive that adheres well to various packaging materials (cardboard, plastic films, etc.) and performs in the expected temperature range.

Feature	UN3480 (Standalone Batteries)	UN3481 (Batteries in/with Equipment)
Description	Lithium-ion batteries shipped on their own	Lithium-ion batteries packed with or contained in equipment
Class	Class 9: Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods	Class 9: Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods

Printing Your Labels

For durable and compliant labels, you'll need the right printing method:

**Thermal Transfer:** (with a resin ribbon) is ideal if using pre-printed stock.
**Laser Printing:** Also acceptable for certain applications.
Avoid direct thermal and dye-based inkjet printers, as they don't meet durability standards for hazardous goods.

Protect your products with undeniable visual alerts. Contact us to explore our range of VOID labels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I print lithium battery labels using thermal transfer?

A: Yes, but with a caveat. Thermal transfer printers typically print in one colour (black) and can't produce the red dashed border required on the handling mark. To stay compliant: Use pre-printed label stock with the red border - Overprint the UN number and phone number using thermal transfer with a resin ribbon. This is a common and compliant solution.

Q2: What information must appear on the label?

A: The UN number (e.g. UN3480 or UN3481) and a contact telephone number (on the handling mark).

Q3: Do the labels need to be red?

A: Yes, the handling mark requires a red dashed border and black symbols. Black-only versions are only acceptable in rare, strictly defined exemptions.

Q4: Do I need to label overpacks?

A: Yes. If placing multiple labelled packages inside a larger outer container, mark it with: The word "OVERPACK" - All required warning labels and UN numbers duplicated on the outside.

Q5: Can you supply compliant lithium battery labels?

A: Yes - we offer durable, compliant labels for UN3480 and UN3481 shipments, including: Pre-printed labels with red borders, Blank synthetic labels for thermal transfer, Help choosing the right materials and adhesives for your application. If you're unsure, get in touch - we're happy to help.

Need Compliant Lithium Battery Labels?

We offer durable, compliant labels for UN3480 and UN3481 shipments. Contact us to discuss your specific needs.

Enquire Now Call Us: 020 8653 4477