Shipping Lithium Batteries (PI965–PI967) by Air Freight: UN38.3, MSDS & IATA Dangerous Goods Compliance Guide

Direct Answer Capsule: Lithium batteries shipped by air from China are classified as Class 9 dangerous goods under IATA DGR. You must provide a valid UN38.3 test report, a 16-section MSDS (SDS), and use UN-spec packaging with the correct Class 9 lithium battery mark. Packing instructions differ by configuration: PI965 (standalone lithium-ion cells/batteries, e.g., power banks), PI966 (packed with equipment), and PI967 (contained in equipment). Standalone batteries (PI965) face the strictest state-of-charge (≤30%) and carrier-acceptance limits.

1. Lithium Battery Categories & IATA Packing Instructions

2. Document Checklist by Battery Type

3. Why Battery Air Shipments Get Rejected (Top 6 Reasons)

1. No valid UN38.3 report — each battery model needs its own test.
2. Wrong or missing Class 9 label — using the old lithium mark or omitting the UN number.
3. Non-UN packaging — batteries not in approved, tested packaging.
4. State-of-charge over limit — standalone batteries above 30% SoC.
5. Undeclared batteries — discovered at screening; shipment held, fined, or destroyed.
6. Carrier embargo — some airlines refuse standalone lithium on certain routes.

4. Pre-Booking SOP for Battery Air Shipments

1. Disclose the exact battery type, Wh rating, and configuration (standalone / packed-with / contained-in).
2. Provide UN38.3 report + MSDS to the forwarder before booking.
3. Confirm the airline accepts your category on the target lane.
4. Apply UN-spec packaging and the correct Class 9 label (UN3480 for standalone, UN3481 for packed-with/contained-in).
5. Submit the Shipper's Dangerous Goods Declaration and ensure SoC is within limits.

Baton Logistics handles classified dangerous-goods air freight daily, including lithium battery shipments under PI965–PI967. Request a DG air freight quote with your battery specs and UN38.3 documentation.