Manufacturers and distributors of lithium cells and batteries (both lithium metal and lithium ion types) being offered for transportation or sale
Manufacturers of lithium cells and batteries must ensure their products meet strict international safety testing standards before shipping them. They must keep detailed test records and make safety summaries available to customers and regulators on demand.
Requirements
Cells and batteries must pass UN Manual of Tests and Criteria testing (Revision 3, Amendment 1 or later)
Manufacturers must create and maintain test completion records for the life of the design plus one year
Manufacturers and distributors must provide test summaries including product name, manufacturer contact info, test date, and test lab details upon request
Button cells installed inside equipment are exempt from test summary requirements
Why it matters
Failure to comply can result in shipment delays, regulatory fines, and inability to legally sell or distribute lithium battery products.
Shippers and sellers packaging lithium cells or batteries for transportation, whether packed alone or with equipment
When shipping lithium cells or batteries, you must place them in inner packaging that completely encloses them, then pack them in specific approved outer containers that meet Packing Group II safety standards. If shipping by aircraft, you can only include the minimum number of cells or batteries needed to power the equipment, plus two spare sets maximum.
Requirements
Cells or batteries must be completely enclosed in inner packaging first
Outer packaging must be metal, wooden, fiberboard, plastic, or composite boxes/drums/jerricans meeting Packing Group II requirements (49 CFR Part 178)
For air transport: limit contents to the minimum needed to power equipment plus two spare sets only
When packed with equipment, use either a strong rigid outer container or place directly in the approved outer packaging with the equipment
Why it matters
Non-compliance with lithium battery shipping requirements can result in rejected shipments, transportation delays, fines, or hazmat violations that impact your ability to sell and deliver products with batteries.
Anyone shipping lithium cells or batteries, including units already built into equipment (such as power banks, laptops, or tools), in the United States
This federal shipping regulation sets strict packaging and containment rules for lithium cells and batteries being transported, especially those already inside equipment or in large quantities. The rules aim to prevent fires, short circuits, and accidental activation during shipment by requiring proper isolation, protection from physical damage, and secure packing.
Requirements
Lithium cells/batteries in equipment must be protected by strong outer packaging and secured to prevent shifting or accidental activation
Spare batteries packed with equipment must be in separate, compliant inner packaging that completely encloses them
Heavy batteries (12 kg+) with impact-resistant casings may use crates or pallets instead of standard packages, but terminals cannot support weight of other items stacked on top
For air transport, multiple pieces of equipment in the same package must be separated to prevent contact with each other
Why it matters
Non-compliance with lithium shipping regulations can result in shipment rejection, fines, and liability for fire or safety incidents; TikTok Shop sellers offering electronics or batteries must follow these rules to legally ship products.
Anyone shipping lithium cells or batteries (lithium ion or lithium metal) by air, highway, or rail in the United States
This rule sets out size limits, labeling requirements, and packaging restrictions for shipping lithium cells and batteries. Depending on the type and watt-hour rating of the battery, different rules apply—smaller batteries have fewer restrictions, while larger ones require specific warning labels and may be prohibited on passenger aircraft.
Requirements
Lithium ion cells cannot exceed 20 Wh; lithium ion batteries cannot exceed 100 Wh (unless highway/rail only, then up to 300 Wh)
Lithium metal cells cannot exceed 1 g lithium content; lithium metal batteries cannot exceed 2 g (unless highway/rail only, then up to 25 g)
Packages must display a warning label such as "LITHIUM ION BATTERIES—FORBIDDEN FOR TRANSPORT ABOARD PASSENGER AIRCRAFT" or "CARGO AIRCRAFT ONLY" unless the package weighs 5 kg or less
For highway/rail-only shipments, mark packages "LITHIUM BATTERIES—FORBIDDEN FOR TRANSPORT ABOARD AIRCRAFT AND VESSEL"
Marking letters must be at least 6 mm high (or 12 mm on packages over 30 kg) with contrasting background color
Why it matters
Violating these rules can result in dangerous goods violations, shipment delays, flight refusals, and serious federal penalties; proper labeling and sizing are critical to legal compliance.
Who this applies to
Anyone shipping damaged or defective lithium cells or batteries; medical device manufacturers and distributors transporting replacement lithium batteries for medical devices
This federal regulation sets strict packaging and labeling requirements for shipping damaged or defective lithium batteries. It also allows limited exceptions for medical device batteries on passenger aircraft if specific safety conditions are met.
Requirements
Damaged/defective lithium batteries must be labeled on the outer package in characters at least 12mm (0.47 inches) high
Medical device batteries may be shipped on passenger aircraft (up to two units) if the destination lacks daily cargo aircraft service and batteries are individually packed, placed in rigid outer packaging, and protected against short circuits
All damaged battery packages must use approved rigid outer packaging (metal, plastic, or plywood)
Non-conforming lithium cells or batteries require prior approval from the Associate Administrator before shipment
Why it matters
Failure to comply with these packaging and labeling requirements can result in shipment rejection, regulatory fines, and safety incidents; compliance is essential for legally shipping lithium batteries domestically.
Aircraft passengers and crewmembers carrying hazardous materials in carry-on or checked baggage
This federal regulation allows aircraft passengers and crew to carry certain hazardous materials in carry-on and checked baggage if they meet specific safety conditions. The rule covers medicinal/toilet aerosols, safety matches, lighters with lithium batteries, and medical radioactive devices—but each category has strict quantity, design, and packaging limits to prevent accidents during flight.
Requirements
Medicinal/toilet aerosols and nonflammable gas aerosols allowed if release devices have protective caps; max 2 kg/2 L per person, max 0.5 kg/500 ml per container
One safety match packet or lighter permitted in carry-on only (no lighter fuel or refills); lithium-battery lighters must have UN-certified batteries (max 2g lithium metal or 100 Wh lithium ion) with safety caps and cannot be recharged on board
Medical radioactive devices (e.g., pacemakers) and injected/ingested radiopharmaceuticals are exempt
Aerosol gas release must not cause extreme discomfort to crew or interfere with their duties
Why it matters
This is a federal aviation safety rule—non-compliance can result in confiscation, fines, or criminal charges, and affects anyone shipping or transporting lithium batteries and aerosols via air freight or passenger luggage.
Airline passengers and crew members carrying personal items on commercial flights within the United States
This is a federal regulation that sets specific exceptions allowing passengers to carry certain restricted items on aircraft, including alcoholic beverages up to certain strengths, perfumes, and other personal safety or medical items. Each item type has precise quantity, packaging, and storage location (carry-on vs. checked baggage) requirements that must be followed.
Requirements
Alcoholic beverages up to 24% ABV are generally allowed; higher strength (24-70% ABV) only in unopened retail packages ≤5L per person
Perfumes/colognes from duty-free may be carried on person or in carry-on baggage
Specific items like hair curlers with butane, dry ice, self-defense spray, and ammunition have strict limits on quantity, packaging, and baggage location
Mercury thermometers, lighters, and safety matches allowed only in checked baggage or on person with specific restrictions on fuel and refills
Why it matters
This regulation is not directly applicable to TikTok Shop sellers or creators unless they are shipping hazardous materials, but understanding these restrictions is critical for sellers listing products that contain restricted items or anyone promoting items intended for travel.
Passengers and crew members flying on aircraft with lithium batteries or lithium battery-powered devices, including electric wheelchairs, smartphones, laptops, medical devices, and spare batteries
This is a federal regulation about safely transporting lithium batteries and lithium battery-powered devices on aircraft. It covers both devices that passengers carry themselves (like phones and laptops) and mobility aids with batteries (like electric wheelchairs). The rules differ depending on whether the battery is built into the device or is a spare, and whether you're packing it in carry-on or checked baggage.
Requirements
Spare lithium batteries must be carried in carry-on baggage only, not checked baggage
Batteries must be protected from short circuits (e.g., original packaging, taped terminals, or separate plastic bags)
Maximum spare battery limits: one battery up to 300 Wh, or two batteries up to 160 Wh each
Portable electronics with lithium batteries in checked baggage must be completely powered off (not sleep mode)
Electric wheelchairs with lithium batteries require visual inspection, secure attachment, and proper stowing to prevent accidental activation
Why it matters
This is federal law enforced by the FAA; violating it can result in confiscation of devices, flight delays, fines, or being banned from flying.
TikTok Shop sellers listing dangerous goods or hazardous materials, including lithium battery products, cosmetics with alcohol or aerosol components, household cleaners, and similar items
If you sell products that contain hazardous materials—like lithium batteries, flammable liquids, pressurized products, or corrosive chemicals—you must follow specific rules for storage, handling, labeling, and shipping. You'll need to obtain official Safety Data Sheets (SDS) from the manufacturer that match your exact product, and for lithium batteries, you must also submit UN38.3 test reports to TikTok Shop.
Requirements
Obtain manufacturer-provided Safety Data Sheets (SDS/MSDS) that must match your exact product—you cannot create your own or use a similar product's SDS
For lithium battery products, submit UN38.3 test reports
Store, handle, label, and ship all dangerous goods according to applicable laws and safety standards
If a product is identified as dangerous goods after listing, you have 90 days to submit required documentation
Why it matters
Failure to comply risks listing suspension or removal, legal liability, and potential harm to customers—this is non-negotiable for safety-sensitive product categories.
Shippers, freight forwarders, and operators involved in air transport of lithium batteries
Transporting lithium batteries by air is highly regulated and complex. New 2026 rules include stricter limits on battery charge levels, bans on certain shipments on passenger planes, more detailed classification, and increased supply chain checks. Proper training is essential to comply with these updated regulations.
Requirements
Follow tighter state of charge limits for lithium batteries
Do not ship prohibited lithium batteries on passenger aircraft
Comply with expanded classification requirements for lithium batteries
Ensure staff receive updated, role-specific training on 2026 regulations
Why it matters
Non-compliance risks shipment delays, fines, and safety hazards, so staying updated ensures smooth, legal transport of lithium battery products.
All shippers, freight forwarders, and operators transporting lithium metal, lithium ion, and sodium ion batteries by air.
The 2026 rules for shipping lithium and sodium ion batteries by air are based on updated international safety regulations. These rules include stricter limits on battery charge levels, bans on certain shipments on passenger planes, and more detailed classification requirements. Compliance is complex and requires careful attention to these new standards.
Requirements
Follow the 2025-2026 ICAO Technical Instructions and IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.
Adhere to tighter state of charge limits for batteries.
Do not ship prohibited batteries on passenger aircraft.
Meet expanded classification and documentation requirements for lithium and sodium ion batteries.
Why it matters
Non-compliance can lead to shipment delays, fines, or safety risks during air transport.
All TikTok Shop sellers and creators shipping or promoting lithium metal, lithium ion, or sodium ion batteries by air.
This rule explains how lithium and sodium ion batteries are classified for air transport under international regulations. It highlights the importance of correctly identifying the battery type using specific UN numbers to ensure proper packaging, labeling, and documentation. Misclassification can lead to shipping errors and regulatory penalties.
Requirements
Use correct UN numbers for battery types: UN 3480, UN 3481, UN 3091, UN 3551, UN 3552.
Follow ICAO and IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations for packaging and labeling.
Ensure accurate documentation to comply with air transport rules.
Avoid misclassification to prevent enforcement issues.
Why it matters
Correct classification prevents shipping delays, fines, and safety risks during air transport of batteries.
All TikTok Shop sellers listing lithium ion or sodium ion batteries, including standalone batteries and those packed with equipment or vehicles.
From January 2026, all lithium ion and sodium ion batteries, including those packed with equipment or vehicles, must be shipped with their charge level at or below 30% of their rated capacity unless special approval is obtained. This rule helps reduce the risk of battery fires during transport. Sellers must accurately measure battery capacity and verify charge levels before shipping.
Requirements
Ship lithium ion (UN 3480) and sodium ion (UN 3551) batteries at no more than 30% state of charge.
Obtain approval from both State of Origin and State of Operator if shipping above 30% charge.
From 1 January 2026, batteries packed with equipment or vehicles must also comply with the 30% charge limit unless approved.
Implement internal controls to verify charge levels and maintain proper documentation for compliance.
Why it matters
Non-compliance can lead to shipment delays, enforcement actions, and increased safety risks during transport.
All shippers of lithium ion (UN 3480), lithium metal (UN 3090), and sodium ion (UN 3551) batteries.
You cannot ship lithium ion, lithium metal, or sodium ion batteries alone on passenger airplanes. These batteries must be shipped only on cargo aircraft and packages must have a "Cargo Aircraft Only" label. Proper training and documentation are needed to ensure compliance with these rules.
Requirements
Lithium ion, lithium metal, and sodium ion batteries shipped alone are forbidden on passenger aircraft.
Packages must bear the "Cargo Aircraft Only" label when shipped under Section IA or IB packing instructions.
Shippers must verify battery capacity and charge before shipment.
Proper documentation and training are required to ensure compliance and support approvals.
Why it matters
Non-compliance can lead to shipment delays, regulatory penalties, and increased safety risks during air transport.
Manufacturers and distributors of lithium and sodium ion batteries manufactured after June 30, 2003
If you make or distribute lithium or sodium ion batteries made after June 30, 2003, you must provide a test summary that shows the batteries meet safety standards for air transport. This documentation is essential to prove compliance with international regulations.
Requirements
Provide a test summary according to Subsection 38.3 of the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria
Ensure the test summary is available for lithium and sodium ion batteries
Understand that training should cover operational risks, not just labeling and marking
Why it matters
Without this documentation, your batteries may not be allowed for air transport, risking shipment delays or regulatory penalties.
Manufacturers and distributors of lithium and sodium ion batteries manufactured after June 30, 2003
If you manufacture or distribute lithium or sodium ion batteries made after June 30, 2003, you must have a test summary that shows the batteries passed safety tests. This summary must include specific details like manufacturer info, test results, and battery specifications. You don't have to include a paper copy with every shipment, but the summary must be accessible, often via digital methods like QR codes.
Requirements
Include manufacturer name and contact info
Provide test lab details and unique test report ID
List battery description and test results (pass/fail)
Make the test summary available and accessible (digital access like QR codes allowed)
Why it matters
Having a complete and accessible test summary helps you comply with air transport safety rules and avoid shipment delays or enforcement actions.
All shippers and logistics teams handling cargo consignments of battery-powered tracking devices and data loggers containing lithium cells.
Battery-powered tracking devices and data loggers containing lithium cells are regulated as dangerous goods when shipped as cargo. They must meet strict rules for training, packing, marking, labeling, and documentation unless they qualify for limited exceptions. These exceptions do not apply to sodium ion powered devices.
Requirements
You must comply with full Dangerous Goods Regulations including training, packing, marking, labeling, and documentation.
Limited exceptions apply only if devices meet strict watt hour, lithium content, usage, and electromagnetic standards.
Sodium ion powered devices are not eligible for exceptions.
Ensure personnel are trained to recognize these devices as regulated articles and understand documentation requirements, including digital access to test summaries.
Why it matters
Non-compliance can lead to shipment delays, fines, or safety risks due to misclassification or improper handling of lithium battery devices.
All organizations shipping lithium or sodium ion batteries by air, including those handling returns and shipping battery-powered tracking devices.
Lithium or sodium ion batteries that are defective or recalled for safety reasons cannot be shipped by air because they pose fire and safety risks. Companies handling returns must give clear instructions on how to package and ship these batteries safely. Battery-powered tracking devices are also regulated and must meet strict safety rules to be shipped by air.
Requirements
Defective or recalled lithium/sodium ion batteries are forbidden for air transport.
Reverse logistics must provide clear consumer instructions on packaging, marking, and transport.
Battery-powered tracking devices must comply with Dangerous Goods Regulations unless they meet strict exceptions.
Coordination across product safety, customer service, compliance, and logistics is required to prevent unsafe shipments.
Why it matters
Non-compliance risks safety hazards and can lead to shipment delays, fines, or bans on shipping your products by air.
Employers, organizations handling lithium or sodium ion batteries, especially those involved in reverse logistics and air transport.
This rule says that while formal dangerous goods training might not always be needed for certain lithium battery shipments, employers must still provide proper instructions and keep records. Defective or recalled lithium batteries that could cause safety hazards are not allowed on planes. Companies handling returns must give clear packaging and shipping instructions to consumers.
Requirements
Employers must provide adequate instruction and keep records even if formal training isn't required.
Defective or recalled lithium/sodium ion batteries that pose safety risks are banned from air transport.
Organizations must give clear consumer instructions on packaging, labeling, transport methods, and prohibitions for reverse logistics shipments.
Why it matters
Non-compliance can lead to shipment delays, safety risks, and regulatory penalties affecting your business operations.
All organizations shipping lithium batteries by air, including those handling reverse logistics and returns.
If you ship lithium batteries by air, you must have clear, documented training and instructions for employees on how to pack, mark, label, and document these shipments. Training must be refreshed every two years or when rules change. For returns, you must also provide clear instructions to consumers about packaging and transport rules.
Requirements
Identify all battery configurations shipped.
Document procedures for each configuration.
Provide clear written work instructions and ensure employee understanding.
Maintain training records and refresh training every two years or when regulations change.
Provide clear consumer instructions for reverse logistics including packaging and transport methods.
Why it matters
Proper training and documentation help avoid regulatory penalties and prevent unsafe or non-compliant shipments that could disrupt your business.
All individuals and businesses involved in air transport of vehicles powered by lithium or sodium ion batteries.
If you handle or ship vehicles powered by lithium or sodium ion batteries by air, you must follow specific packing instructions and maintain proper training records. Training must be refreshed every two years or when regulations change, and documentation of this training is legally required.
Requirements
Follow Packing Instruction 952 for shipping.
Keep records of all hazmat training.
Complete refresher training at least every two years or when rules change.
Ensure training covers classification, state of charge verification, documentation, and aircraft restrictions.
Why it matters
Proper training and documentation prevent legal issues and ensure compliance with air transport safety regulations.
Sellers, shippers, and handlers of lithium or sodium ion battery powered vehicles and equipment intended for air transport.
Vehicles powered by lithium or sodium ion batteries with capacities over 100 Wh must have their batteries charged to no more than 30% state of charge for air transport unless special state approvals are obtained. Training on handling these batteries must cover all types of battery-powered vehicles and equipment, not just small batteries. Proper documentation of this training is legally required.
Requirements
Vehicles with batteries over 100 Wh must be offered at a state of charge not exceeding 30% or battery capacity not exceeding 25%.
Vehicles exceeding 30% state of charge require State approvals.
Training must cover electric mobility equipment, industrial vehicles, and emerging battery-powered transport technologies.
Documentation of training must be maintained and verifiable for regulatory compliance.
Why it matters
Failure to comply with these rules can lead to shipment delays, legal penalties, and safety risks during air transport.
Manufacturers, shippers, freight forwarders, operators, and regulators involved in air transport of vehicles powered by lithium metal or sodium ion batteries exceeding 100 Wh.
This rule requires that vehicles powered by lithium metal or sodium ion batteries over 100 Wh must be shipped with their batteries charged to no more than 30% state of charge or 25% battery capacity unless special state approvals are obtained. It also emphasizes that all parties in the air cargo supply chain share responsibility for managing risks related to lithium battery transport. Training must cover not only small batteries but also electric mobility equipment.
Requirements
Vehicles with batteries over 100 Wh must be shipped at a state of charge ≤30% or battery capacity ≤25%.
Shipping vehicles exceeding 30% state of charge requires State approvals.
Hybrid powered vehicles have additional requirements under UN 3166.
Training must include electric mobility equipment, not just small batteries.
Why it matters
Following these rules reduces the risk of incidents during air transport and ensures compliance with international regulations, avoiding shipment delays or penalties.
Sellers and shippers of vehicles powered by lithium batteries exceeding 100 Wh, including electric mobility equipment, industrial vehicles, and hybrid vehicles.
When shipping lithium battery-powered vehicles by air, you must ensure the battery's charge is low (30% or less) unless you have special state approval. This rule also means companies need to be very careful and knowledgeable about all lithium battery shipping regulations, including for larger vehicles and new battery technologies.
Requirements
Batteries over 100 Wh must be shipped at 30% state of charge or less.
Vehicles with batteries charged above 30% require state approval.
Hybrid vehicles have additional labeling and documentation requirements under UN 3166.
Training must cover all battery-powered transport equipment, not just small batteries.
Why it matters
Non-compliance can lead to shipment delays, legal issues, and increased scrutiny from regulators, impacting your ability to sell and ship products safely.
Organizations and individuals involved in shipping lithium batteries by air, including hazmat trainers and compliance officers.
This policy highlights the benefits of using online hazardous materials (hazmat) training for lithium battery air transport compliance. It ensures training is up-to-date, consistent across locations, interactive, and properly documented. Such training helps organizations manage risks and meet complex regulatory requirements effectively.
Requirements
Use online hazmat training that is updated annually with IATA revisions.
Ensure training is standardized across all locations.
Include interactive assessments to reinforce understanding.
Maintain documented records of training completion for inspections.
Why it matters
Proper training reduces compliance risks and helps embed regulatory knowledge into daily operations, preventing shipment delays or violations.
Organizations and individuals involved in shipping lithium batteries by air, including logistics teams and compliance officers.
Shipping lithium batteries by air in 2026 requires careful attention to detailed rules like state of charge limits and documentation. Simply following a checklist isn't enough; proper, up-to-date hazmat training tailored to specific roles is essential to avoid problems. This training helps prevent shipment issues and regulatory penalties.
Requirements
Follow state of charge restrictions and avoid prohibited shipments on passenger aircraft.
Provide test summary documentation and manage reverse logistics properly.
Invest in structured, role-specific online hazmat training aligned with current regulations.
Maintain documented training records and use standardized instruction with real-world expertise.
All businesses and employees involved in shipping lithium batteries by air, including TikTok Shop sellers and creators who handle or promote such products.
This policy highlights the importance of completing updated hazmat training courses that cover the latest 2026 IATA lithium battery air transport rules. It ensures you understand key requirements like state of charge limits and cargo aircraft restrictions to ship lithium batteries safely and legally by air. The training helps prevent shipment issues and regulatory penalties.
Requirements
Complete online hazmat training based on the 2026 IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.
Understand lithium battery state of charge limits and Cargo Aircraft Only restrictions.
Use test summary documentation and follow special provisions for lithium battery shipments.
Apply practical knowledge from interactive exercises to ensure compliance.
Why it matters
Following these rules helps avoid shipment delays, refusals, enforcement actions, and protects your business operations.
All TikTok Shop sellers listing products that contain harmful or potentially hazardous chemicals, including those with lithium batteries, aerosols, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, pesticides, or other toxic materials.
TikTok Shop requires a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for any product containing harmful or potentially hazardous chemicals—even if the product doesn't need special shipping labels. You must submit the correct SDS in the 16-section GHS format that matches your exact product formulation; generic or self-made SDSs are not allowed. If you don't provide a required SDS, your listing will be blocked or suppressed until you upload the correct document.
Requirements
Submit an SDS that matches your exact product formulation, SKU, and packaging—issued by the manufacturer or qualified SDS authoring service
The SDS must follow the 16-section GHS (Globally Harmonized System) format; documents with fewer sections will be rejected
Do not use generic, self-made, or similar-product SDSs; federal regulations require proper laboratory data and documentation
For lithium battery products, a UN38.3 lithium battery test report may be accepted in place of an SDS
Why it matters
Without a compliant SDS, TikTok Shop will block or suppress your listing, preventing your product from being sold on the platform.
TikTok Shop sellers listing hazardous or restricted products that require an SDS
Section 16 of your Safety Data Sheet (SDS) must include the date when the document was prepared or last revised, along with any abbreviations and references used in the document. This ensures your SDS is current and complete.
Requirements
Include a clear preparation or last revision date on the SDS
List all abbreviations used throughout the document
Provide references cited in the SDS
Ensure the date and revision information are in Section 16 (Other Information)
Why it matters
Missing or outdated revision dates are a common reason for SDS rejection and product listing blocks on TikTok Shop.
