Lithium-Ion Battery Shipping:
UN 3480 & UN 3481
Argo Freight is a specialist in the logistics of lithium-ion batteries and equipment containing lithium batteries, with particular expertise on air imports from China. Please note: Argo works exclusively with registered businesses – our services are not designed for individuals.
UN 3480
Lithium-Ion Batteries (standalone)
UN 3480 covers lithium-ion batteries shipped on their own — not packed with or contained in equipment. These batteries are classified as Class 9 Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods and are subject to strict packaging, labelling, and documentation requirements.
Air freight restrictions for UN 3480 are particularly stringent. Many airlines refuse standalone lithium batteries entirely, and those that accept them require Section II compliance at minimum, with state-of-charge (SoC) limitations.
UN 3481
Lithium-Ion Batteries in/with Equipment
UN 3481 applies to lithium-ion batteries either contained in equipment (e.g., laptops, power tools, drones, electric vehicles) or packed with equipment. While generally less restricted than UN 3480, these shipments still require proper classification and documentation.
Argo Freight regularly handles UN 3481 shipments from Chinese manufacturers, including consumer electronics, industrial equipment with embedded batteries, and solar energy storage systems.
Lithium Battery Shipping from China to South Africa
Argo Freight has coordinated over 300 shipments containing lithium batteries on the China–South Africa corridor. This includes consumer electronics, industrial power systems, electric vehicle components, and solar energy storage batteries.
Our process for China-origin lithium battery shipments includes:
- Pre-shipment classification and UN testing report verification
- Packaging compliance checks against IMDG/IATA standards
- Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) preparation
- Carrier booking with DG-approved shipping lines
- South African customs clearance including SARS compliance
- Last-mile delivery to final destination
Shipping lithium batteries?
Whether UN 3480 standalone cells or UN 3481 equipment with embedded batteries — Argo Freight handles compliance, documentation, and transport from origin to destination.
Argo Freight works exclusively with registered businesses – our services are not designed for individuals.
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