Shipping lithium batteries by air is governed by the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR), and as of January 1, 2026 the rules are stricter than ever. The current 67th Edition turned the long-recommended 30% state-of-charge (SoC) limit into a hard, mandatory requirement for many lithium-ion shipments. If you move electronics, EV components, power tools, or medical devices through PortMiami or Miami International Airport, getting this right is the difference between a clean export and a rejected, fined, or grounded shipment.
How lithium batteries are classified
IATA splits lithium batteries by chemistry and how they are packed. Each combination has its own UN number and Packing Instruction (PI):
Lithium-ion (rechargeable)
UN 3480 covers lithium-ion batteries shipped alone (PI 965). UN 3481 covers batteries packed with equipment (PI 966) or contained in equipment (PI 967).
Lithium-metal (non-rechargeable)
UN 3090 covers lithium-metal batteries shipped alone (PI 968), and UN 3091 covers them packed with or contained in equipment (PI 969/970).
The 2026 state-of-charge rule
The biggest change in the 67th Edition is the state of charge. Effective January 1, 2026, UN 3481 lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment (and lithium-ion-powered vehicles under UN 3556 over 100 Wh) must be offered for transport at a state of charge not exceeding 30% of rated design capacity. What was a recommendation under the 66th Edition is now mandatory. Lithium-metal cells and batteries (UN 3090) shipped above 30% SoC require approval from both the State of Origin and the State of the Operator.
Watt-hour ratings and documentation
The Watt-hour (Wh) rating of a cell or battery determines which section of the Packing Instruction applies and whether the shipment is fully regulated or eligible for a section II “smaller battery” exception. Every air shipment of lithium batteries needs correct marking (including the lithium battery mark), UN-spec or approved packaging, and where required a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods. Air carriers also apply state and operator variations, so the same battery can have different acceptance rules on different airlines.
Why a compliant partner matters
Lithium batteries are one of the most common reasons air freight gets held at the gate. An asset-based, AI-powered 3PL with in-house dangerous goods expertise can pre-screen your SoC, classification, marks, and paperwork before the freight ever reaches the carrier. Go Freight’s hazmat compliance team handles lithium battery air and ocean shipments out of South Florida, and pairs them with PortMiami and Port Everglades drayage when batteries arrive or depart by ocean. For background on broader classification, see our guide to the 9 hazmat classes and what triggers a hazmat repack.
Frequently asked questions
What is the IATA 30% state-of-charge rule for lithium batteries?
As of January 1, 2026 under the IATA DGR 67th Edition, lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment (UN 3481) and lithium-ion-powered vehicles over 100 Wh must be shipped at a state of charge not exceeding 30% of rated design capacity. This was previously a recommendation and is now mandatory.
Which IATA DGR edition is in force in 2026?
The 67th Edition of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations took effect on January 1, 2026, and governs all air shipments of dangerous goods, including lithium batteries, for that year.
Do I always need a Shipper’s Declaration for lithium batteries?
Not always. Fully regulated lithium battery shipments require a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods, but certain smaller batteries shipped under section II of the relevant Packing Instruction are excepted from the declaration when all marking, packaging, and quantity limits are met.
Ship lithium batteries the compliant way
Go Freight is a Miami-based, asset-based, AI-powered 3PL with in-house dangerous goods expertise. Get a fast, accurate quote at go-freight.ai/quote or call (786) 445-0150.