Shipping lithium batteries and battery-powered products: UN38.3, MSDS, classification report and packaging
Required documents, packaging and labelling, and common issues for exporting lithium batteries and products with built-in batteries by sea and air, plus choosing a transport mode to Africa.
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Exporting lithium batteries and battery-powered products requires a UN38.3 test report, an MSDS and a transport classification report. Packaging must prevent short circuits and movement, with Class 9 dangerous goods labels or lithium battery marks as required. Standalone batteries usually go through the dangerous goods channel (DG container), and products with built-in batteries are declared under the matching UN number.
Information updated: 2026-10-03
Required documents
| Document | Purpose | Issued by |
|---|---|---|
| UN38.3 test report and test summary | Proves the battery passed transport safety tests | An accredited testing laboratory |
| MSDS / SDS | States chemical composition and emergency measures | The battery manufacturer |
| Transport classification report | Determines transport mode and packaging requirements | An accredited classification body |
| Dangerous goods declaration | Filed with the maritime authority | The shipper or agent |
Battery types and UN numbers
| UN number | Case |
|---|---|
| UN3480 | Lithium-ion batteries shipped on their own |
| UN3481 | Lithium-ion batteries packed with or contained in equipment |
| UN3090 | Lithium metal batteries shipped on their own |
| UN3091 | Lithium metal batteries packed with or contained in equipment |
Packaging and stuffing
- Batteries pass UN38.3 and packaging complies with the IMDG Code (usually packing instruction P903).
- Prevent short circuits: protect terminals, pack individually.
- Prevent movement: fill and secure inside the carton.
- Mark the watt-hour (Wh) rating on the package and apply the right labels.
- Stuffing is supervised by qualified staff who sign the container packing certificate.
Frequently asked questions
Can solar storage batteries be shipped to Nigeria?
Yes, but standalone storage batteries generally go as dangerous goods in a DG container, with full battery documents and a dangerous goods declaration. It depends on the category and battery specs.
Can phones with batteries and power banks go by air?
Air freight is stricter than sea freight on lithium batteries. Standalone batteries such as power banks are tightly restricted on many air routes, so confirm with your logistics provider before shipping.