UN38.3 is the core international test standard for the transport safety of lithium batteries (and equipment containing lithium batteries). Its full title is Section 38.3 of the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods — Manual of Tests and Criteria (TDG). It is designed to verify the safety of lithium batteries during transport through rigorous testing, thereby preventing risks such as fire and explosion caused by battery failure.

I. Scope of Application

UN38.3 applies to all “lithium batteries” and “equipment containing lithium batteries,” including:


II. Core Test Items (8 Items Total)

UN38.3 requires batteries to undergo a series of tests under extreme environmental and abuse conditions. The core test items include:


  1. Altitude Simulation Test: Simulates the low-pressure environment of high-altitude transport (11.6 kPa, 20°C ± 5°C) to test whether the battery leaks, explodes, or catches fire.

  2. Thermal Test: Repeatedly cycles between −40°C and 75°C (at least 10 cycles) to verify battery stability under extreme temperature variations.

  3. Vibration Test: Simulates the vibration environment during transport (10 Hz–500 Hz, acceleration of 196 m/s²) to check whether the battery structure is damaged.

  4. Shock Test: Applies a 1500g acceleration (6 ms) shock to the battery, simulating impacts during transport to evaluate shock resistance.

  5. External Short Circuit Test: Short-circuits the positive and negative terminals of the battery (external resistance ≤ 0.1 Ω), monitors temperature changes, and ensures no explosion or fire occurs.

  6. Crush Test: Applies a crushing force to the battery (13 kN for cylindrical cells, 20 kN for prismatic/pouch cells) to verify the crush resistance of the casing and internal structure.

  7. Overcharge Test: Continuously charges the battery at 1.2 times the rated current until the voltage reaches twice the rated voltage (or for 24 hours) to evaluate charging safety.

  8. Forced Discharge Test: Reverses the battery connection (applying 1 times the rated current) to test stability during reverse discharge.

III. Certification Process

  1. Select a Laboratory: An internationally accredited third-party laboratory (e.g., CNAS, ILAC accredited, such as SGS, TÜV, INTERTEK, etc.) is required.

  2. Submit Samples: Provide sufficient samples based on battery type (typically 20–30 cells for lithium-ion batteries, more for lithium metal batteries), along with product specifications (e.g., capacity, voltage, dimensions, etc.).

  3. Test Execution: The laboratory completes all test items in accordance with the UN38.3 standard and records the data.

  4. Issue Report: Upon passing the tests, the laboratory issues a UN38.3 test report (there is no fixed-format “certificate”; the report serves as the core credential).

IV. Purpose and Necessity

UN38.3 is a mandatory requirement for the international transport (air, sea, and land) of lithium batteries:


V. Important Notes

  1. Report Validity Period: There is no fixed validity period; however, re-testing is required when product design, materials, or processes change. Some carriers (e.g., airlines) may require the report to be issued within one year.

  2. Distinction from Other Certifications: UN38.3 addresses “transport safety” only, whereas certifications such as CE, UL, and CQC focus on “use safety.” The two are not interchangeable.

  3. Sample Requirements: Samples must be identical to mass-produced products; otherwise, the report is invalid.


In summary, UN38.3 serves as the “passport” for lithium batteries to enter the international market and achieve compliant transport. Its core objective is to reduce transport risks through scientific testing, thereby safeguarding personnel and logistics safety.