New Air Transport Regulations for Lithium and Sodium-ion Batteries (Effective January 2025)

At MANLY Battery, we understand that staying up-to-date with the latest industry regulations is crucial for our customers, particularly those involved in shipping lithium batteries. As a leading provider of high-quality lithium batteries, we want to ensure our clients are well-informed about the upcoming changes to international air transport regulations. These updates, set to take effect in January 2025, will impact how lithium and sodium-ion batteries are shipped around the world.

What You Need to Know About the New Lithium Battery Air Transport Regulations

The new regulations affect how lithium batteries and sodium-ion batteries are shipped by air, and it’s essential for businesses to understand the new requirements. These changes, which were approved by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and will be reflected in the 2025-2026 edition of the “Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air,” will impact everything from packaging to labeling. As part of our commitment to compliance, MANLY Battery ensures all our lithium batteries are ready for safe air transport under these updated rules. (To view the original lithium battery air transport regulations)

Key Changes to Lithium Battery Air Transport Regulations:

1. New UN Numbers and Packaging Guidelines for Sodium-ion Batteries

One of the most significant updates is the addition of sodium-ion batteries to the regulations. These batteries now require their own UN numbers:

• UN 3551: Sodium-ion battery
• UN 3552: Sodium-ion battery when packed with equipment or contained in equipment
• PI 976, PI 977, PI 978: For sodium-ion batteries with organic electrolytes

At MANLY Battery, we offer a wide variety of lithium batteries and other energy solutions, including options that meet these new regulatory standards.

2. Energy Limits and Packaging Requirements

From January 1, 2025, until December 31, 2025, lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries must be shipped with a charge of no more than 30% of their capacity, or indicated as no more than 25% charged. After December 31, 2025, this limit will become mandatory for batteries over 100Wh. These limits have been put in place to minimize risks, such as thermal runaway, during air transport.

Additionally, the regulations now specify 3m stacking tests for certain lithium-ion batteries and lithium metal batteries (PI 966, PI 967, PI 969, and PI 970) to ensure packaging strength and safety during transit. These changes aim to prevent any incidents that could jeopardize the safety of air transport.

For sodium-ion batteries, the same energy charge limits (30%) will apply until December 31, 2025. Following that, packaging and energy limits will align with the standards for lithium-ion batteries.

3. Changes to Labels and Markings

The “Lithium Battery Label” will be renamed to the “Battery Label,” which now applies to both lithium and sodium-ion batteries. The label’s design remains the same, but it must now include the appropriate UN number.

Similarly, the Class 9 Hazardous Materials Label for Lithium Batteries will be updated to reflect both lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries, ensuring clarity in their handling during transport.

4. Updates for Lithium Battery-Powered Vehicle Transport

For businesses involved in shipping lithium battery-powered vehicles, you should note that the UN number for these vehicles will change. Until March 31, 2025, lithium-powered vehicles will continue to be shipped under UN 3171. However, after March 31, 2025, these vehicles will need to be shipped using the new UN numbers, such as UN 3556 or UN 3557.

Why These Changes Matter for MANLY Battery Customers

At MANLY Battery, we are committed to helping our customers navigate complex regulations and ensure their shipments are compliant. Whether you’re ordering lithium batteries for robot, forklift, solar energy systems, golf cart, boat, or industrial equipment, understanding these new air transport rules will help you avoid delays and shipping issues.

As international demand for lithium batteries continues to rise, it’s essential to keep up with changing regulations to ensure smooth logistics and safe transportation. MANLY Battery is dedicated to providing you with high-quality batteries that comply with the latest standards, making your shipping process easier and more reliable.

For more information on how these regulations impact your orders or to inquire about our lithium battery products, contact us today!

FAQ

1. What Are the New Regulations for Lithium Batteries?

The new regulations for lithium batteries, set to take effect in 2025, introduce several important changes regarding their transportation by air. Approved by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), these regulations will be reflected in the 2025-2026 edition of the “Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air.” Key updates include stricter packaging and labeling requirements, as well as limitations on the charge levels for lithium-ion batteries during air transport. Additionally, sodium-ion batteries will now fall under similar regulations with new UN numbers and packaging guidelines. These changes aim to enhance safety and prevent risks like thermal runaway and fires during transport.

2. What Are the Significant Changes in IATA 2025?

The significant changes in IATA 2025 regulations include new UN numbers for sodium-ion batteries, a charge limit of 30% for lithium batteries starting in January 2025, and updated labeling requirements that now cover both lithium and sodium-ion batteries. Additionally, there are stricter packaging and stacking requirements to enhance safety during air transport. These updates align with ICAO guidelines and are designed to reduce the risks associated with transporting these batteries by air.

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