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Lithium-Akkus versenden (UN 3481)
Almost every laptop, smartphone and tablet contains a lithium-ion battery. For transport, these batteries count as dangerous goods. Anyone shipping decommissioned devices should therefore know what is behind the number UN 3481 and when special rules apply.
As of: 10/2026
In brief
UN 3481 is the UN number for lithium-ion batteries that are installed in devices or packed with devices, for example the battery in a laptop. Such shipments belong to dangerous goods class 9 and are subject to the ADR on the road. Relaxed rules apply to small batteries in intact devices, whereas damaged or defective batteries require special packaging and marking.
The UN numbers for lithium batteries
UN numbers are four-digit identification numbers used to designate dangerous goods uniformly worldwide. There are four numbers for lithium batteries:
| UN number | Designation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| UN 3480 | Lithium-ion batteries, loose | Replacement battery, power bank |
| UN 3481 | Lithium-ion batteries contained in equipment or packed with equipment | Laptop with built-in battery; device and battery in the same box |
| UN 3090 | Lithium metal batteries, loose | Button cells, non-rechargeable lithium batteries |
| UN 3091 | Lithium metal batteries in or with equipment | Device with built-in lithium button cell |
For road transport in Europe, the ADR applies, the agreement on the international carriage of dangerous goods by road. It is revised every two years; the 2025 edition currently applies. Since this edition there are also additional UN numbers for sodium-ion batteries.
When relaxed rules apply
Special Provision 188 of the ADR largely exempts small lithium batteries from the dangerous goods regulations if certain conditions are met. For lithium-ion batteries, the limit is 20 Wh per cell and 100 Wh per battery. Most laptop, tablet and smartphone batteries are below this. Even then, however, requirements for packaging, protection against short circuit and unintentional activation and, in many cases, a lithium battery mark on the package must be observed.
Batteries above 100 Wh, such as those from large UPS systems, fall fully under dangerous goods law. Parcel services also have their own acceptance conditions, which can be stricter than the ADR.
Damaged and defective batteries
A swollen, leaking or overheated battery is a fire risk. For damaged or defective lithium batteries, Special Provision 376 of the ADR applies, with stricter requirements for packaging and marking. Batteries prone to a dangerous reaction may only be transported under special conditions. You should therefore report devices with a visibly damaged battery separately before shipping and not simply pack them along.
The Battery condition also includes the question of whether a battery can still be transported safely. How to collect devices when employees leave is shown by our offboarding checklist.
Rule of thumb: an intact battery in the device is usually uncomplicated. A damaged battery is always a special case – report it beforehand, never just send it along.
Shipping decommissioned devices with Second IT
Second IT collects hardware using its own Security logistics pickup: direct trips without intermediate storage, GPS monitoring, sealed and insured, with staff trained for IT transports. For self-shipping there is the PELI Case for up to 31 kg, the roll cart for larger quantities and individual shipping via DHL return. Clarify devices with a damaged battery in advance with your contact person. Second IT handles the professional treatment of batteries during disposal.
Frequently asked questions about UN 3481
What does UN 3481 mean?
UN 3481 stands for lithium-ion batteries that are installed in a device or packed together with a device. The number is stated on shipping documents and, where applicable, on the package.
May I ship laptops with batteries by parcel?
Generally yes, if the batteries are intact, below the limits of Special Provision 188 and the devices are packed so that they are protected against being switched on and against damage. Also check the conditions of your parcel service.
What do I do with a swollen battery?
Stop using it, do not charge it and do not pack it with other devices. Store the device on a non-flammable surface and clarify transport with a specialist company, because stricter rules apply to damaged batteries.
What is the difference between UN 3480 and UN 3481?
UN 3480 applies to loose lithium-ion batteries, such as a replacement battery or a power bank. UN 3481 applies to lithium-ion batteries that are installed in a device or packed with the device, for example the battery in a laptop.
From when do relaxed shipping rules apply to lithium batteries?
Special Provision 188 of the ADR largely exempts small lithium batteries from dangerous goods law. For lithium-ion, the limit is 20 Wh per cell and 100 Wh per battery. Even then, requirements for packaging and short-circuit protection apply, and often a mark on the package.
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