IATA 2023 Lithium Battery Guidance Document

More than ever, lithium batteries power things around us. Whether it be in our homes or at our business.

One *source suggests that the global lithium-ion battery market size will reach 135.1 billion USD by 2031. The growth is expected in renewable energy and electric vehicles.

These batteries must travel from the manufacturer to businesses and consumers. They may ship via road, rail, ocean, and air.

As such, IATA (International Air Transport Association) aids in providing shippers with information and guidance on how to prepare the battery safely for transport.

One document is the Lithium Battery Guidance Document, which has been updated for 2023. The latest version is based on the provisions set out in the 2023-2024 edition of the ICAO (ICAO Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air) and the 64^th Edition of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR).

The Document provides guidance for complying with provisions regarding the transportation of lithium (ion and metal) by air.

Some of the changes in the 2023 edition include:

Clarification of the lithium battery test summary requirements
Updated classification flow charts for both Lithium-ion and Lithium-metal
Reference to the new Lithium Battery Mark, without the telephone number
Updated and New Q&A/FAQ
Clarification of the edition of the UN Manual and Criteria to be referenced for the testing of lithium batteries

Note that this Guidance Document does not replace training required. It is intended to supplement and aid in the transport process.

If you have more questions about Lithium Batteries, contact our Regulatory Experts at 855.734.5469 or check out our FAQ for more information.
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