How should lithium batteries be described on the shipping paper?

• A. Identify the battery type (lithium ion or lithium metal), the UN number, proper shipping name, and if applicable, the state of charge and containment status.
• B. List only the UN number.
• C. List only the proper shipping name.
• D. Omit the battery details to save space.

Answer: (A)

On shipping papers, lithium batteries must be described with multiple details to clearly communicate the hazard and the exact material being shipped. The key pieces are the battery type (lithium ion or lithium metal), the UN number, the proper shipping name, and, when applicable, the state of charge and whether the battery is contained in equipment or packed separately.

The battery type is essential because lithium ion and lithium metal batteries have different classifications, UN numbers, and packaging requirements. The UN number provides a standardized identifier for the material, so responders and handlers know precisely what is being transported. The proper shipping name translates that identity into a clear label on the form, indicating the nature of the dangerous good in a way that regulatory systems recognize.

State of charge and containment status adjust the documentation to reflect risk and packaging conditions. The state of charge is sometimes required because highly charged batteries pose greater thermal and ignition risks, affecting handling and permitted transport. Containment status indicates whether the battery is shipped packed with equipment or contained in equipment, which changes the applicable classification and packaging rules.

Choosing only the UN number or only the proper shipping name would leave out critical context about the exact battery type and how it’s packaged, and omitting these battery details would fail to meet documentation requirements and jeopardize safe transport.