What UN number corresponds to lithium ion batteries shipped loose?

• A. UN3480
• B. UN3090
• C. UN3481
• D. UN3091

Answer: (A)

Distinguishing UN numbers by how the batteries are packaged and shipped. Lithium ion batteries shipped loose are designated UN 3480, because this code covers standalone lithium ion cells and batteries that aren’t installed in or shipped with equipment. If the battery is inside a device or shipped with equipment, you use UN 3481, which covers lithium ion batteries contained in or packed with equipment. Lithium metal batteries use different numbers: UN 3090 for batteries shipped loose and UN 3091 for batteries contained in or packed with equipment. So when lithium ion batteries are shipped by themselves, the correct designation is the 3480 code.