UN3481 vs UN1323: Classification Guide for Lithium Batteries
What’s the difference between UN3481 and UN1323 when classifying lithium batteries?
UN3481 is the correct UN number for lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment or contained in equipment. UN1323, on the other hand, is assigned to a class of flammable solids and does not apply to lithium batteries at all.
If you ship, store or handle lithium batteries, you have probably seen UN codes such as UN3481 on cartons, documents or labels. These UN numbers come from international dangerous goods regulations and are used to classify, package, label and transport hazardous materials safely. For lithium-ion batteries, correct classification is critical, because they can pose fire and explosion risks if they are damaged, mispacked or mishandled.
In this guide, we will clearly explain the difference between UN3481 and UN1323 and clarify why only UN3481 is relevant to lithium-ion batteries. We will cover:
- What each UN number actually means
- Why proper classification is so important for lithium battery shipments
- Which regulations apply when using UN3481
- How to stay compliant and avoid shipment delays, penalties and safety incidents
Let’s start by looking at the basic definitions of UN3481 and UN1323.
Part 1. What is a lithium battery?
A lithium battery is an electrochemical power source that uses lithium ions or lithium metal as the active element in its chemistry. Thanks to their high energy density, relatively low weight and long service life, lithium batteries are widely used in mobile phones, laptops, power tools, medical equipment, solar energy storage systems and electric vehicles.
From a regulatory and safety perspective, lithium batteries are broadly divided into two main categories:
- Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries – Rechargeable
These include Li-ion, Li-polymer and related rechargeable chemistries used in most modern electronics and e-mobility applications. - Lithium metal batteries – Non-rechargeable
These use metallic lithium and are typically found in long-life primary cells, such as button cells and certain specialty batteries.
Each category has its own risk profile and specific transport requirements. Because of the potential fire and explosion hazards, international shipping regulations require that lithium batteries are correctly classified, labelled and documented using the appropriate UN numbers.
Part 2. What does UN3481 mean?
UN3481 is the UN number assigned to lithium-ion batteries that are shipped together with equipment, either installed in the device or packed in the same package.
UN3481 covers two distinct shipping descriptions:
- UN3481, Lithium-ion batteries contained in equipment
For example, a laptop, smartphone or medical device with the battery already installed. - UN3481, Lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment
For example, a drone shipped with spare rechargeable batteries in the same box, but not installed in the device.
This classification applies only to rechargeable lithium-ion batteries when they are part of, or shipped together with, equipment. Under the UN Model Regulations and related modal rules (IATA DGR, IMDG Code, ADR, etc.), UN3481 is assigned to Class 9 – Miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles.
Typical examples of shipments classified under UN3481 include:
- Laptops with built-in Li-ion battery
- Smartphones with internal Li-ion battery
- Power tools shipped with their rechargeable battery packs
- Drones shipped with installed and/or spare Li-ion batteries in the same outer package
Part 3. What does UN1323 mean?
UN1323 has nothing to do with lithium batteries. It is the UN number assigned to:
UN1323, Flammable solid, organic, n.o.s. (not otherwise specified)
This entry is used as a “catch-all” classification for certain organic flammable solids that are not specifically listed elsewhere in the UN Dangerous Goods List. Typical examples include some types of chemical powders or solid mixtures that can ignite or burn easily but are not identified under a more specific UN number.
UN1323 is never used to classify lithium-ion or lithium-metal batteries.
If UN1323 appears on documentation, labels or packaging for lithium batteries, this indicates a serious misclassification and a likely violation of dangerous goods transport regulations. In such cases, the shipment should be corrected immediately to use the appropriate lithium battery UN numbers (such as UN3480, UN3481, UN3090 or UN3091, depending on the exact battery type and configuration).
Part 4. UN3481 vs UN1323: What’s the Difference?
The difference between UN3481 and UN1323 is fundamental: they refer to completely different categories of dangerous goods.
- UN3481 is used for lithium-ion batteries that are contained in equipment or packed with equipment.
- UN1323 is used for certain flammable organic solids and is not applicable to lithium batteries.
Using the wrong UN number is not a minor paperwork issue. Misclassification can lead to regulatory violations, shipment delays, safety incidents and increased liability. If lithium batteries are incorrectly shipped as UN1323, the packaging, labels and handling instructions will not match the real risks, putting people, cargo and infrastructure at risk.
Key Differences Table
| Feature | UN3481 | UN1323 |
|---|---|---|
| Material type | Lithium-ion batteries with or in equipment | Flammable organic solids |
| Rechargeable? | Yes | Not applicable |
| Applies to batteries? | Yes | No |
| Typical use | Electronics, tools, solar and control systems | Chemical and industrial materials |
| UN class | Class 9 – Miscellaneous dangerous substances | Class 4.1 – Flammable solids |
| Typical label | Class 9 label plus lithium battery mark | Class 4.1 flammable solid label |
| Example shipments | Phones, laptops, drones with batteries | Camphor, certain organic powders or solids |
UN1323 should never appear on documentation or labels for lithium-ion or lithium-metal batteries. If it does, the shipment should be corrected immediately.
Part 5. Why Proper Classification Matters
Using the correct UN classification, such as UN3481 for lithium-ion batteries with or in equipment, is essential for both safety and compliance. Proper classification ensures:
- Safe transportation conditions
- Correct marks, labels and documentation
- Smooth customs clearance
- Valid insurance coverage
- Appropriate fire and explosion risk management
Misclassifying lithium batteries as UN1323 or any other incorrect UN number can result in:
- Confiscated or rejected shipments
- Restrictions or bans from carriers and logistics providers
- Regulatory penalties under air, sea and road transport rules
- Increased liability in the event of fire, damage or injury
Accurate UN classification is the starting point for choosing the correct packaging, labels, documentation and handling procedures.
Part 6. How to Identify a UN3481 Battery
A lithium-ion battery shipment is typically classified as UN3481 when all of the following apply:
- The battery is a lithium-ion type
- It is rechargeable
- It is installed in equipment or packed in the same package with the equipment it powers
- The batteries are not shipped on their own (batteries shipped alone are generally UN3480)
In practice, many manufacturers and logistics providers label packaging using the proper shipping name, for example:
- “UN3481, Lithium-ion batteries contained in equipment”
- “UN3481, Lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment”
If rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are shipped separately from any device, they are normally classified as UN3480, Lithium-ion batteries and must follow the requirements for standalone battery shipments.
Part 7. IATA, IMDG and DOT Regulations for UN3481
Lithium-ion batteries classified as UN3481 are regulated across all major transport modes. Shippers must always follow the latest version of the applicable regulations, as details are updated regularly.
IATA (Air Transport – IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations)
For air shipments, UN3481 must comply with the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR), including the relevant Packing Instructions (such as PI 966 and PI 967 for lithium-ion batteries packed with or contained in equipment). Key points typically include:
- Use of the correct packing instruction depending on whether batteries are installed in equipment or packed with equipment
- Limitations on watt-hour rating per cell or battery for simplified provisions
- Application of the lithium battery mark and Class 9 label where required
- Terminal protection to prevent short circuits (insulation, covers, or individual inner packaging)
- Robust outer packaging that prevents damage during handling and transport
- Compliance with any airline-specific restrictions, which may be stricter than the base IATA rules
Shippers must be trained and must always refer to the current IATA DGR and lithium battery guidance for exact conditions.
IMDG (Sea Transport – International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code)
For sea freight, UN3481 is regulated under the IMDG Code as a Class 9 dangerous good. Requirements typically include:
- Use of the appropriate packing instruction (such as P903 under the UN Model Regulations and IMDG)
- Adequate inner packaging and strong outer packaging
- Protection against movement and short-circuiting within the package
- Correct use of marks and labels, including the UN number and Class 9 label
Compliance with IMDG ensures that lithium battery shipments are safe during containerization, stowage and sea transport.
DOT (U.S. Domestic Transport – 49 CFR)
In the United States, lithium-ion batteries shipped as UN3481 are regulated under the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) in 49 CFR Parts 171–180. Key aspects include:
- Classification, packaging, marking and labeling requirements in accordance with 49 CFR 173.185 and related sections
- Use of proper shipping names and UN numbers on packages and documentation
- Incident reporting obligations for certain battery-related events, such as fires, leaks or serious damage
Violations of these rules can result in significant civil penalties under current DOT/PHMSA regulations, especially if non-compliance leads to accidents, injuries or property damage.
Because penalty amounts and detailed provisions change over time, shippers should always consult the latest regulatory texts or work with a qualified dangerous goods consultant.
Part 8. What About Lithium Metal Batteries?
Lithium metal batteries are non-rechargeable and have their own UN numbers and handling rules. They are categorised separately from lithium-ion batteries:
- UN3090 – Lithium metal batteries (shipped alone)
- UN3091 – Lithium metal batteries contained in equipment or packed with equipment
These entries are distinct from:
- UN3480 – Lithium-ion batteries (shipped alone)
- UN3481 – Lithium-ion batteries contained in equipment or packed with equipment
Lithium metal and lithium-ion batteries have different test, packaging and labeling requirements. Mixing them under the wrong UN number can lead to serious compliance and safety problems.
Part 9. How to Ship UN3481 Batteries Safely
To ship UN3481 lithium-ion batteries safely and compliantly, shippers should:
- Use strong outer packaging capable of withstanding normal transport conditions
- Pack batteries and equipment to prevent movement and damage inside the package
- Protect battery terminals against short circuits (for example, using caps, insulation, or individual inner packaging)
- Apply the correct lithium battery mark and Class 9 label when required by the applicable regulations
- Observe quantity and configuration limits that differ between air and sea transport
- Prepare transport documents or dangerous goods declarations when required
- Ensure all staff involved in packing, documentation and handling have appropriate dangerous goods training, as required by IATA, IMDG, DOT and other relevant authorities
Following these steps reduces the risk of damage, delays and regulatory issues.
Part 10. Summary of UN Battery Classifications
The table below summarizes the main UN numbers used for lithium and related batteries, plus UN1323 for comparison:
| UN Number | Battery Type | Description | Rechargeable? | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UN3480 | Lithium-ion | Batteries shipped alone | Yes | Bulk Li-ion battery shipments |
| UN3481 | Lithium-ion | Batteries contained in or packed with equipment | Yes | Phones, laptops, drones, tools |
| UN3090 | Lithium metal | Batteries shipped alone | No | Watches, sensors, specialist devices |
| UN3091 | Lithium metal | Batteries contained in or packed with equipment | No | Medical devices, sensors, small electronics |
| UN3171 | Battery-powered vehicle/equipment | Vehicles or equipment with batteries fitted | Typically yes | E-scooters, e-bikes, small vehicles |
| UN2794 | Wet batteries (lead-acid) | Batteries, wet, filled with acid | No | Starter batteries for cars, forklifts |
| UN2800 | Wet, non-spillable batteries | Non-spillable sealed wet batteries | No | UPS systems, emergency power |
| UN1323 | Not a battery | Flammable solid, organic, n.o.s. | No | Industrial chemicals and organic solids |
UN1323 is listed here only for contrast. It is not a lithium battery entry and must never be used to classify lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries.
Part 11. FAQs about UN Battery Classification
What is the correct UN number for lithium-ion batteries in a laptop?
For a standard laptop with the battery installed, the correct entry is:
UN3481, Lithium-ion batteries contained in equipment.
If spare rechargeable batteries are shipped in the same box with the laptop (but not installed), the entry is still UN3481, but under “packed with equipment”.
Can lithium batteries ever be classified as UN1323?
No.
UN1323 is assigned to flammable solid, organic, n.o.s. and is not related to lithium batteries. Lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries must be classified under their dedicated UN numbers (such as UN3480, UN3481, UN3090, UN3091). Using UN1323 for any lithium battery shipment is a serious misclassification.
How are UN3480 and UN3481 different?
- UN3480 – Lithium-ion batteries
Lithium-ion batteries shipped by themselves, not packed with or installed in equipment. - UN3481 – Lithium-ion batteries contained in or packed with equipment
Lithium-ion batteries shipped inside a device or in the same package as the device they power.
Correctly distinguishing between UN3480 and UN3481 is essential because packaging, quantity limits and air transport restrictions are different for standalone vs equipment-associated batteries.
What are the IATA packing instructions for UN3481?
For air transport under the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR):
- PI 966 – Lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment
- PI 967 – Lithium-ion batteries contained in equipment
Each packing instruction has Section I (fully regulated) and Section II (simplified provisions for small batteries that meet specific limits). Under Section II, certain smaller UN3481 shipments can benefit from reduced documentation requirements, but they must still comply with:
- Watt-hour and quantity limits
- Correct lithium battery marking and, where applicable, Class 9 label
- Proper inner and outer packaging
- Protection against short circuits and movement inside the package
Because IATA rules and airline variations are updated frequently, shippers must always refer to the current IATA DGR and carrier conditions.
Is a dangerous goods declaration always required for UN3481 batteries?
Not in every case, but it depends on the section and conditions:
- For many small UN3481 consignments prepared under Section II of PI 966 or PI 967, a formal Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods (DGD) may not be required, provided all Section II limits and conditions are met.
- For fully regulated shipments under Section I, a DGD is normally mandatory, along with full Class 9 labeling and documentation.
Even when a DGD is not required, shippers must still:
- Use the correct UN number and proper shipping name
- Apply the lithium battery mark (and labels where required)
- Follow all packaging, quantity and SoC requirements
- Ensure staff are properly trained as per IATA and national regulations
Failure to comply can lead to shipment rejection, penalties and increased liability in the event of an incident.
