UN 38.3 for Lithium Batteries – Testing, Rules & Compliance Guide

Updated on May 29, 2025 04:49:26 PM

The UN 38.3 is subsection and a testing standard for transportation and handling lithium batteries under the UN manual and criteria part-3. The Registration is mandatory for all the manufacturers and exporters of lithium batteries and cells under UN 38.3 testing standards. The objective is to ensure the safety and handling during the transportation either by Air, Road, Rail or Ship.

Given the potential dangers associated with lithium batteries, adhering to UN 38.3 testing standards is obligatory to prevent any potential accident. It mandates a thorough and rigorous evaluation of various aspects concerning the batteries to guarantee their safe transportation, thus reducing risks and hazards during transit of such goods. By enforcing these standards, the UN aims to maintain a high level of safety in the handling and movement of lithium batteries and lithium-ion batteries across different modes of transportation. Hence it is obligatory to acquire an UN 38.3 Certification for consignments.

With Professional Utilities you can get your UN 38.3 Registration certificate without any hassle and much paperwork. Our team of experts will guide you at every step of the registration process.

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Why is the UN 38.3 Certification Important for Exporters?

The UN Certification for lithium batteries is an obligatory requirement to export any such products internationally. This is because lithium batteries are considered to be hazardous materials, and as such, they must be transported in accordance with specific regulations. The UN 38.3 Registration is a certification that indicates that a lithium battery or cell has been tested and meets the UN's safety requirements for transportation. Merchant exporters of lithium batteries and cells are required to obtain this certification in order to comply with the UN's guidelines for the transportation of hazardous goods.

The certificate is only issued to the Packaging Manufacturer of the hazardous & dangerous goods, not the exporter of the goods. The packaging manufacturer must make separate applications for Sea & Air carriers.

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Parameters of Testing for UN 38.3 Certification

These are 8 tests required for UN 38.3 certification:

  • T1 - Altitude Simulation: Low-pressure simulation for all primary and secondary cells.Batteries are subjected to half sine shock at peak acceleration of 150g in case of small batteries and 50g in case 0f large batteries.
  • T2 - Thermal Test: Integrity testing when batteries undergo extreme and rapid temperature changes.
  • T3 - Vibration Test: Vibration simulation that may be experienced during transportation of such goods.
  • T4 - Shock Test: Shock test or vibration to simulation during transportation.
  • T5 - External Short Circuit Test: External short circuit simulation for primary and secondary cells.
  • T6 - Impact Test: Impact and crush simulations on the cell's casing.
  • T7 - Overcharge Test: Overcharge simulation on rechargeable batteries.
  • T8 - Forced Discharge Test: Forced discharge simulations for primary and secondary batteries.

Batteries are subjected to all these tests only after which UN 38.3 certification is issued.

UN3090 and 3480: This classification applies to all the lithium based batteries and lithium-ion batteries that are transported as cells or batteries outside the product such as power banks and other products.

UN3091 and 3481 This classification covers the products which are shipped with lithium based batteries. Means the cells and batteries are inside the device and the batteries placed within the packages such as a product having a spare battery within the respective package.

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Documents required for UN 38.3 Certificate

  1. Name of Email of applicant Firm
  2. Proof of business
  3. Product specification
  4. List of material used

Other important documents may be required depending upon the type of lithium based battery.

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Fee for UN 38.3 Registration

The certification is provided by only two regulatory bodies in India and the registration fee for UN 38.3 certification can vary depending upon the product and its constituents.However our professional service fee for UN 38.3 certification is ₹ 10,0000.

Validity and renewal of UN 38.3 Certification

The certificate is valid for 1 year and applicants are required to update their license each year on 1st of january.

Testing Requirement and Timeline

  • Testing Required up-to 4-6 weeks
  • Applicants are required to send at least pack of 16 batteries
  • Test report consist of at least 10 pages

Test Report consist of

  • Sample name
  • Charge current
  • Nominal voltage
  • Battery rated capacity
  • Limited charge voltage
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Benefits of UN 38.3 Certification

The UN 38.3 certification, often referred to as the "UN Transport Test," is a set of tests and requirements designed to ensure the safe transport of lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries. The certification is mandated by the United Nations for transportation of these batteries to mitigate potential risks associated with their transport. Here are the key benefits of obtaining a UN 38.3 certifica

  • Compliance with Regulations: The UN 38.3 certification ensures compliance with international transportation regulations, particularly for lithium batteries. Compliance with these regulations is essential to legally transport batteries via air, sea, road, or rail.
  • Safety Assurance: The certification involves rigorous testing to assess the safety of lithium batteries during transport. This includes tests for mechanical shock, vibration, thermal abuse, and more, providing assurance of the battery's safety in various transport conditions.
  • Risk Mitigation: By meeting the UN 38.3 requirements, the risk of accidents or incidents during transportation is significantly reduced. This contributes to overall safety within the transportation industry and prevents potential hazards related to battery transportation.
  • Global Acceptance: The UN 38.3 certification is globally recognized, facilitating the smooth movement of lithium batteries across international borders. It ensures consistent safety standards and simplifies the shipping process by aligning with international regulations.
  • Consumer Confidence: The certification enhances consumer and stakeholder confidence in the products being transported. It demonstrates a commitment to safety and compliance, promoting trust and credibility in the market.
  • Facilitates Trade and Commerce: Having the UN 38.3 certification streamlines the shipping process for manufacturers and distributors, promoting smoother international trade and commerce of lithium batteries.
  • Legal Requirements: Many countries and regions mandate UN 38.3 certification for the transportation of lithium batteries. Obtaining the certificate ensures compliance with local and international laws, preventing legal complications.
  • Environmental Protection: The UN 38.3 certification includes tests for environmental hazards, ensuring that the transportation of lithium batteries is done in a manner that minimizes harm to the environment.
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Safety protocol for UN 38.3 Registration

  • Store batteries in a well-ventilated, dry area.
  • Avoid physical damage and short-circuiting.
  • Never place batteries in trash or recycling bins.
  • Never overcharge or leave the battery charging overnight.
  • Never leave e-bikes or e-scooters unattended while charging.
  • Store lithium batteries in a dedicated, vented, fire-rated cabinet.
  • Never charge a primary (disposable lithium or alkaline) battery.
  • Store batteries in their original containers or installed in equipment.
  • Keep batteries away from direct sunlight, high temperature, and high humidity.
  • Never charge a battery or device under your pillow, on your bed, or near a couch.
  • Store non-rechargeable primary lithium batteries separately from rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
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Conclusion

UN 38.3 is a certification for lithium batteries that ensures their safe transportation. It is mandatory for all manufacturers and exporters of lithium batteries and cells. The certification involves rigorous testing to assess the safety of lithium batteries during transport. The benefits of obtaining a UN 38.3 certificate include compliance with regulations, safety assurance, risk mitigation, global acceptance, consumer confidence, facilitation of trade and commerce, legal requirements, and environmental protection.

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FAQs

Is the UN 38.3 Certificate Mandatory?

The UN Mark IIP certificate is a certification issued by the United Nations (UN) to indicate that a packaging design meets the international standards for the safe transport of dangerous goods.

Is Msds Required for lithium based batteries?

MSDS is a certification for hazardous goods whereas UN 38.3 is required for transportation of lithium based batteries.

What is the validity period of UN 38.3 certification?

The UN 38.3 Certification is valid for the time period of 1 year.

What is the Fee for UN 38.3 Certification?

The professional fee for UN 38.3 Certification with us is INR 10,0000.

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