Lithium Battery Guide for Shippers

Updated October 2024! This compliance resource was prepared to assist shippers to safely package lithium cells and batteries for transport by all modes according to the latest (May 10, 2024; HM-215Q) regulatory requirements. This publication directs readers to scenario-based shipping guides that outline the requirements to ship packages of lithium cells and batteries in various configurations. Each distinct shipping guide in this document refers to the regulatory requirements for a specific lithium cell/battery type, configuration, or size.

Considerations for Municipalities

eBikes, eScooters, and other lithium battery powered micromobility devices are increasingly common. As municipalities permit shared micromobility operations in their jurisdictions, they should be aware of the hazards posed by lithium batteries and the requirements for safe transportation of these materials. To help, PHMSA developed this list of considerations for municipalities, which provides information on the Hazardous Materials Regulations, incident reporting requirements, end-of-life management, and general fire safety messaging.

Lithium Battery Test Summaries (TS)

Updated July 2024! For safety reasons, lithium batteries must be subjected to a series of design tests per sub-section 38.3 of the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria. This updated publication assists manufacturers and distributors with understanding and implementing the lithium battery test summary requirement effective January 1, 2022 and subsequently revised effective May 10, 2024.

2024-2025 Hazardous Materials Registration Brochure

This brochure discusses PHMSA's Hazmat registration program, explaining who must register, when and how to register, registration cost, and other important information.

Safe Returns: Understanding Hazmat Returns and the Reverse Logistics Exception

This resource is meant to help those within the reverse logistics stream—including retailers and retail employees—understand how the Hazardous Materials Regulations pertain to their industry. The brochure explains the applicability of the HMR to hazardous materials return shipments, unpacks the HMR definition of "reverse logistics," and details the provisions authorized for reverse logistics transportation.

Safety Tips for Lithium-Ion Battery-Powered Micromobility Devices

The lithium-ion batteries powering micromobility devices—like ebikes and scooters—are considered hazardous materials in transportation. This resource includes safety tips for caring for, shipping, and disposing of these batteries, as well as what to do when a battery shows signs of damage.

Security Requirements and Considerations for Hazardous Materials Transportation

This brochure outlines the Safety and Security Plan requirements found in 49 CFR Part 172, Subpart I, including when a security plan is required, what should be included in the plan, and what additional training is necessary for those who fall under the security plan requirements. It also offers suggested security measures, per PHMSA's Risk Management Self-Evaluation Framework, to assist in the development of security plans.

Transporting Agricultural Products Safely

Many products used in agricultural operations, like fertilizers and pesticides, are considered hazardous materials. This brochure is meant to help farmers and agricultural workers determine how the Hazardous Materials Regulations apply to their transportation operations and whether they fit into any exceptions allowed for agricultural products. Further, the brochure features an overview of requirements for anhydrous ammonia nurse tanks, including how to avoid the most common violations.

Materials of Trade (MOTs)

Materials of Trade, or MOTs, are a category of hazmat which, when transported by motor vehicle in small quantities as part of a business (other than transportation), are subject to fewer HMR requirements due to the limited hazard they pose. This brochure provides a general overview of the Materials of Trade exception, including applicable materials, limitations, and a flowchart for determining quantity restrictions.

Unpacking Packaging Codes

This poster offers a quick reference guide to non-bulk performance-oriented packaging codes and is meant to assist those packing hazmat shipments in a warehouse setting. The poster details the elements that comprise a sample UN packaging code, as well as information on variation and reconditioned packagings.

Is Your Cylinder Safe to Fill?

This propane cylinder safety poster assists fillers with inspecting cylinders for serviceability before filling, based on HMR cylinder requalification standards. It reflects the October 30, 2020 final rule, which authorized 12-year initial and subsequent requalification periods for volumetric expansion testing and a 12-year initial requalification period for proof pressure testing.

Understanding the Risks of Damaged, Defective, or Recalled (DDR) Lithium Batteries

Damaged, defective, or recalled (DDR) lithium batteries pose a higher risk of fire than other lithium batteries, but they can be difficult to identify. This brochure is intended to help shippers determine whether lithium batteries are damaged or defective, so they can properly package and ship these batteries. In addition to defining DDR, the brochure includes visual examples to help identify the signs that a battery may be damaged or defective, and details the requirements for DDR shipments.

CHECK THE BOX® Before Shipping Strike-Anywhere Matches!

PHMSA has developed this brochure to increase awareness that strike-anywhere matches are considered hazardous materials for shipping purposes and are prohibited to be shipped by the United States Postal Service (USPS) and summarize the requirements to ship them via other carriers. PHMSA and the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) as part of the Check the Box® campaign hope to decrease the number of undeclared shipments of strike-anywhere matches.

Fireworks Certification Procedures

This brochure provides information about the certification of UN0336 Division 1.4G consumer fireworks via a Firework Certification Agencies (FCA), in accordance with the revised American Pyrotechnics Association (APA) Standard 87-1A.

For FCAs and those interested in becoming FCA's, this resource details the application process to become an FCA, as well as subsequent operating requirements and procedures. For fireworks manufacturers or importers, the brochure describes how to apply for certification from an FCA, differences between FC and EX numbers, and record-keeping requirements.

Safety Guidance for Consumer Fireworks

This is a quick guide to the requirements for shipping Division 1.4G consumer fireworks, including shipping papers and safe loading, as well as proper handling for shipments over 1,001 lbs. gross weight. Available in two formats: a poster, and a reference card for easy access aboard vehicles.

Safety Guidance for Consumer Fireworks Poster

Safety Guidance for Consumer Fireworks Card

Are You Renting a Van or Box Truck to Transport Fireworks?

This poster-sized resource details the requirements for transporting fireworks via a rented van or box truck. Topics include the general requirements for fireworks shipments, registration and security requirements, loading requirements, and regulatory references, as well as permit requirements when transporting 55 lbs. or more of Division 1.1G and 1.3G explosives.

APA Standard 87–1A Fireworks Brochure

PHMSA has developed Firework Brochures in alignment with the 2018 American Pyrotechnics Association Standard(s) 87-1 A, B, and C - incorporated by reference within the 49 CFR 173.64. These brochures intend to provide a high level overview for the Firework Industry and its interested parties.

APA Standard 87–1B Fireworks Brochure

PHMSA has developed Firework Brochures in alignment with the 2018 American Pyrotechnics Association Standard(s) 87-1 A, B, and C - incorporated by reference within the 49 CFR 173.64. These brochures intend to provide a high level overview for the Firework Industry and its interested parties.

APA Standard 87–1C Fireworks Brochure

PHMSA has developed Firework Brochures in alignment with the 2018 American Pyrotechnics Association Standard(s) 87-1 A, B, and C - incorporated by reference within the 49 CFR 173.64. These brochures intend to provide a high level overview for the Firework Industry and its interested parties.

The Facts on Small Arms-Related Hazmat

This brochure was prepared to increase awareness on safely shipping small arms-related hazardous materials.

Lithium Battery Guide for Shippers

This compliance resource was prepared to assist shippers to safely package lithium cells and batteries for transport by all modes according to the latest (December 27, 2022; HM-260B) regulatory requirements. This publication directs readers to scenario-based shipping guides that outline the requirements to ship packages of lithium cells and batteries in various configurations. Each distinct shipping guide in this document refers to the regulatory requirements for a specific lithium cell/battery type, configuration, or size.

Federal Hazmat Law

This guide summarizes federal hazmat transportation law, including regulatory authorities, scope, and enforcement procedures

DOT Chart 17: Markings, Labeling, and Placarding Guide

DOT Chart 17 is now available as a Section 508 Complaint portable document that operates in a variety of ways and does not rely on a single sense or ability of the user. For the adaptive user, this PDF contains accessible information in both visual and audio formats. The PDF uses accessibility-related software or peripheral devices to maximize use, while navigating tags and tabbing, descriptive text (ALT-text), color and graphics, and scalable views.

DOT Tabla 17- La Guía sobre marcas, etiquetas, y rombos

DOT Tabla 17 - La Guía sobre marcas, etiquetas, y rombos para comunicación de materiales peligrosos, está disponible en español. La guía ayuda cargadores, transportistas y industrias interesadas en rápido acceso de información sobre marcas, etiquetas, y rombos que son requeridos por los reglamentos de materiales peligrosos (HMR).

DOT Chart 17 - Hazardous Materials Markings, Labeling and Placarding Guide is now available in Spanish. This updated guide assists Spanish-speaking shippers, carriers, and other stakeholders by providing quick access to information concerning hazardous materials markings, labels, and placards, as described in the HMR.
 

7 Useful Tips Quick e-Resource Guide

To Help You Ship Hazardous Materials Safely in Commerce.

Spanish Version

ORM-D Phase-out ends December 31, 2020

PHMSA ORM-D marking phase out ends December 31, 2020.

Transporting Infectious Substances Safely

This brochure describes the USDOT regulations for the classification criteria and packaging requirements for the transportation of infectious substances.

How to Use the HMR

28 page training document on 49 CFR Parts 100-18

Hazmat Transportation Requirements

Condenses information from our most popular publications into an easy to read, 8-page brochure that includes Training requirements, Preparing shipping papers, Using the hazardous materials table, Performance packaging codes, and marking, labeling, and placarding.

Guide to Developing a Hazmat Training Program

This guide explains the training requirements in the Hazardous Materials Regulations, identifies those employees who must be trained, and provides a tool to help hazmat employers determine what type of training and training environment may be best for their employees.

Hazmat Transportation Training Requirements

This brochure describes the training requirements in 49 CFR §172.700-704, including security awareness and in-depth security training requirements for hazmat employers and employees. Frequently asked questions are answered and specific regulations are cited.

MR Number Brochure

PHMSA no longer issues R-number Approvals and has transitioned to M-number Approvals that include expiration dates in an effort to accurately locate and verify manufacturing facilities prior to performing safety inspections.

Does your Cylinder Requalification Training by the Visual Inspection Method Meet the Requirements of 49 CFR § 172.704?

External visual requalifiers of DOT-approved cylinders are required to undergo function-specific training as specified in 49 CFR § 172.704. This brochure summarizes function specific training required for cylinder requalifiers.

Labeling of Hazardous Chemicals for Bulk Shipments

PHMSA and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provide clarity on the differing agency labeling requirements to communicate the dangers of hazardous materials in "transportation" (DOT), and in the "workplace" (OSHA).

PHMSA Cautions Against Refilling DOT 39 Cylinders

PHMSA cautions the public to never refill DOT 39 cylinders, such as the 1lb. cylinders used for camping. While many types of propane cylinders are designed to be refilled, a DOT 39 cylinder of any size is strictly non-refillable.

How to Safely Send Batteries and Battery Powered Devices by Mail

For more information on shipping lithium batteries: https://www.transportation.gov/check-box/are-lithium-batteries-your-package.

DOT Chart 16: Markings, Labeling, and Placarding Guide

PHMSA has released the "DOT Chart 16 - Hazardous Materials Markings, Labeling and Placarding Guide" in print as well as searchable mobile applications for both iOS and Android platforms to assist shippers, carriers, and other stakeholders to quickly access information regarding hazardous materials markings, labels and placards.

DOT Chart 16: Markings, Labeling, and Placarding Guide (Spanish)

Sampling and Testing Program for Unrefined Petroleum-Based Products

In new regulations adopted in the Hazardous Materials Regulations (49 CFR Parts 100-180) on May 8, 2015 (80 FR 26643), PHMSA established requirements for shippers in all modes of transportation to develop and carry out a sampling and testing program for all unrefined petroleum-based products.

DOT-Approved Third Party Packaging Certification Agencies

This brochure describes PHMSA's Third Party Packaging Certification Program

Cargo Tank Motor Vehicle (CTMV) - Loading/Unloading Operations: Recommended Best Practices Guide

This document is intended to aid hazmat employers and others responsible for CTMV loading/unloading by offering recommended best practices to further enhance the safety of these operations.

Cargo Tank Motor Vehicle (CTMV) - Loading/Unloading Operations: Recommended Best Practices Pocket Guide

Before engaging in the process of loading and/or unloading a CTMV, PHMSA strongly advises you to consider the following questions.

Industry Alert for Fireworks Shippers, Distributors, and Carriers

This PHMSA Safety Alert describes how to transport consumer fireworks safely and in compliance with the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR).

Are You Preparing Suspected Ebola - Contaminated Waste For Transportation?

This 11 x 17" poster provides general guidance on the proper packaging of suspected Ebola-contaminated waste.

Is Your Propane Cylinder Safe?

This Propane Cylinder Safety poster provides guidance on how to check manufacturing and requalification dates to see if the cylinder is safe for use. The 2-sided poster displays the information in both English and Spanish.

IMPORTANT: On October 30, 2020, PHMSA published a final rule authorizing 12-year initial and subsequent requalification periods for volumetric expansion testing and a 12-year initial requalification period for proof pressure testing. Please read the rulemaking for more information.

Do You Know If You're Shipping Hazardous Materials?

For information on proper packing and shipping of hazmat: https://www.transportation.gov/check-the-box.

Explosives Approvals - Regulatory Guidelines for Shipping and Transporting Fireworks

For fireworks manufacturers when applying for DOT special permits and approvals, and transporting them.

Guide to Performance Packaging Codes

This guide provides information associated with performance packaging as identified in 49 CFR, Part 178. It provides sample markings, codes, tests, approximate conversion factors, and definition of packing group associated with packaging used for hazardous materials shipments.

Radioactive Material (RAM) Regulation Review 2008

This review provides guidance on the Department of Transportation (DOT) Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) contained in Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR) Parts 171-185, which govern the packaging and shipment of radioactive material. These materials have an excellent safety record when packaged, labeled, marked and transported in accordance with these regulations.

Security Requirements Brochure (Spanish)

This brochure describes new security training and planning requirements and provides guidance in assessing security threats. It also lists suggested security measures, and provides contact information for other Federal agencies and industry organizations and associations to obtain further security planning information.

UN Cylinders: What You Should Know

This brochure describes the USDOT standards for the design, construction, and use of UN pressure receptacles, adopted into 49 CFR, Parts 171-180, effective September 11, 2006.

Wetlines Awareness for Emergency Responders

This brochure, developed in partnership with the National Tank Truck Carriers, Inc., the National Association of State Fire Marshals, and the International Association of Fire Chiefs, provides general awareness to emergency responders regarding wetlines. Wetlines are external piping located beneath a cargo tank designed to break off in the event of an accident.

Liquefied Compressed Gases Compliance assistance Guide

This brochure explains the requirements for the operator of either DOT specification (i.e., MC 330 or MC331) or non-DOT specification (authorized under § 173.315(k)) used in liquefied compressed gas (LCG) service, and procedures for unloading LCG from cargo tanks.