Key Updates to IATA Lithium Battery Regulations: Essential Information for International Shippers

Attention: International Buyers, Supply Chain Managers, and Logistics Partners involved in the global transportation of goods containing lithium batteries.

Introduction

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) regularly updates its Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) to ensure the safe transport of hazardous materials by air. The 63rd Edition (2022) of the DGR incorporates significant changes, particularly concerning lithium batteries, which are critical components in many electronic products sourced globally. For stakeholders involved in international shipping from regions like China, understanding these updates is essential for maintaining compliance and ensuring seamless logistics operations.

Summary of Major Changes in IATA DGR (63rd Edition) Regarding Lithium Batteries

1. Removal of Section II from Packing Instructions (PI) 965 and 968

One of the most significant changes is the complete deletion of Section II from Packing Instructions 965 (for lithium batteries shipped alone) and 968 (for lithium metal cells/batteries shipped alone).

What it means: Shippers can no longer use the packaging methods outlined in Section II for these PI codes.
Transition Period: IATA provided a three-month transition period until March 31, 2022, allowing shippers time to adapt their processes. During this period, Section II methods were still permissible.
New Standard: Shippers must now comply with the requirements specified in Section IB of PI 965 and PI 968, as applicable. This change has also led to consequential amendments in related DGR sections (1.6.1, Special Provision A334, 7.1.5.5.1, Tables 9.1.A and 9.5.A).

⚠️ Critical Change: Section II has been completely deleted from PI 965 and PI 968. Shippers must now comply with Section IB requirements.

2. Revision of Packing Options for PI 966 and PI 969 (Batteries Packed with Equipment)

Packing Instructions 966 (lithium-ion batteries with equipment) and 969 (lithium metal batteries with equipment) have been clarified for Section I.

Clarified Packing Options (Section I): Two compliant packaging methods are now explicitly stated:
- The lithium cells or batteries are first packed in a UN specification packaging, and then placed with the equipment in a strong, rigid outer packaging.
- The lithium cells or batteries and the equipment are packed together within a single UN specification packaging.
Deletion of Redundant Options: The previous "packing options" listed under Section II of PI 966 and PI 969 have been deleted. This section, which did not require UN specification packaging, effectively offered only one packing method, making the listed options redundant.

3. Future Changes Announced in the New Appendix I

The 63rd Edition introduced a new Appendix I, which details changes scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2023. Key upcoming changes for lithium batteries include:

Exemption for Button Cells: The requirement for a test summary will be exempted for equipment containing only lithium button cells (including circuit boards).
Marking Requirement Change: The mandatory requirement to provide a telephone number on lithium battery marks has been removed.
Transition Period for Existing Marks: A lengthy transition period allows marks that meet the old requirements (with a phone number) to continue being used until December 31, 2026.

📋 Summary of Key Changes:

✅ PI 965/968: Section II removed → Must use Section IB
✅ PI 966/969: Packing options clarified for Section I
✅ Button cells exempted from test summary requirement (effective Jan 1, 2023)
✅ Phone number no longer required on lithium battery marks (effective Jan 1, 2023)
✅ Old marks with phone numbers valid until Dec 31, 2026

Implications for International Shipping

These regulatory updates aim to streamline packaging requirements and enhance clarity for shippers. The removal of outdated sections and the extended transition periods for marking demonstrate IATA's intent to facilitate a smooth industry adjustment.

Recommendations for Shippers and Procurement Teams

Review and Update Procedures: Ensure your logistics and shipping procedures reflect the current use of PI 965/968 Section IB and the clarified options for PI 966/969 Section I.
Supplier Communication: Proactively communicate these changes to your suppliers and manufacturing partners in the supply chain to prevent non-compliant packaging at the point of origin.
Plan for Future Compliance: Take note of the upcoming 2023 changes, particularly the removal of the phone number from battery marks, to plan for future packaging and labeling updates.

Conclusion

Staying informed and compliant with the latest IATA DGR is crucial for the safe, efficient, and uninterrupted global transport of goods containing lithium batteries. As your international logistics partner, we are committed to keeping you updated on these critical regulatory changes to ensure your supply chain remains robust and compliant.

For the official source and detailed regulations, please refer to the IATA website directly.

Note: This professional summary is based on the provided document concerning the 63rd Edition of the IATA DGR. It is intended for informational purposes. For definitive shipping guidance, always consult the latest full edition of the IATA DGR and ensure compliance with all applicable local and international regulations.