Lithium Batteries: Class 9 Doesn’t Mean Low Risk
When it comes to dangerous goods, Class 9 is often overlooked. It’s the “miscellaneous” category, but don’t let that fool you, within it lies one of the most tightly regulated and potentially hazardous items in global transport: lithium batteries.
At DG Solutions, we work with Kiwi exporters every day to make sure their lithium battery shipments meet the latest IATA and IMDG rules. In this post, we’ll explain what makes these batteries risky, what to watch out for during transport and why it’s more important than ever to get compliance right.
Why Are Lithium Batteries a Big Deal?
Lithium batteries whether lithium ion (UN3480/UN3481) or lithium metal (UN3090/UN3091) power everything from mobile phones to e-bikes. But under the surface, they carry serious risks.
Thermal Runaway
If a battery is damaged, overcharged, or exposed to high heat, it can overheat, catch fire and even explode.
Chemical Reaction Risks
Internal faults can cause short circuits, leading to intense fires that are hard to put out.
Contamination of Other Cargo
One faulty battery in a container can trigger a fire that spreads to the rest of the shipment.
Despite their Class 9 label, lithium batteries can pose fire risks comparable to Class 3 flammable liquids especially when shipped in bulk or packed incorrectly.
Risks in Air and Sea Freight
Transporting lithium batteries by air or sea only increases the danger. Think tight spaces, fluctuating temperatures and limited access in transit.
Air Freight
- In flight fires: Several cargo plane fires have been linked directly to lithium batteries.
- Regulatory bans: Loose lithium metal and ion batteries aren’t allowed on passenger flights.
- Strict requirements: Airlines now enforce tight limits on state of charge (SoC), packaging standards and documentation.
Sea Freight
- Onboard fires: Lithium battery fires at sea are notoriously difficult to contain.
- Past incidents: Some major container ship fires have been traced back to undeclared or poorly packed lithium batteries.
Incidents That Changed the Rules
Here are a few events that led to major regulatory changes:
UPS Flight 6 – Dubai, 2010
A fire in the cargo hold, caused by lithium batteries, claimed the lives of two crew members. This tragedy led to tighter air cargo rules worldwide.
Asiana Airlines Flight 991 – South Korea, 2011
A mix of lithium batteries and flammable liquids caused a fire mid flight, resulting in a crash into the sea. This event drove home the dangers of misdeclared goods.
How DG Solutions Supports NZ Exporters
At DG Solutions, we help you stay ahead of the rules and avoid costly mistakes:
Lithium Battery Export Certification
Full compliance for air and sea freight, including IATA/IMDG documentation and packaging checks.
Dangerous Goods Consultation
We review your products and packaging to reduce risk and improve safety.
Online DG Training
Practical training for anyone involved in handling, packing or certifying dangerous goods.
Packaging Advice & Supplies
We offer UN approved packaging and compliant labels to help you meet the latest standards.
Don’t Let Class 9 Fool You
Just because lithium batteries are in Class 9 doesn’t mean they’re low risk. On the contrary, they’re among the most closely monitored items in international freight. One mistake can mean a lost shipment or worse.
Trust DG Solutions, New Zealand’s independent dangerous goods experts, to keep your lithium battery shipments safe, compliant and on the move.