Free Printable UN3481 Lithium Battery Label – UN3481 is the United Nations identification number for lithium-ion batteries contained in equipment or packed with equipment. In the United States, these shipments fall under DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations (49 CFR) enforced by PHMSA. Packages often require a lithium battery mark (handling mark) showing the red hatched border, battery symbol, and “UN 3481,” plus a Class 9 hazard label in some cases.
Using an accurate free printable UN3481 label helps meet marking rules for ground, air, or other modes when the shipment qualifies under the applicable exceptions or packing instructions. Always verify the current requirements for your specific cells/batteries (Watt-hour rating, quantity, mode of transport, and condition) because rules change and non-compliance can lead to rejected packages or penalties.
What the UN3481 Lithium Battery Mark Looks Like?
The lithium battery mark is a square or rectangular label (minimum 100 mm × 100 mm, or 100 mm × 70 mm on smaller packages) with a red hatched border at least 5 mm wide. It features a black battery symbol (group of batteries, one damaged and emitting flame) on a contrasting background and the text “UN 3481.” A telephone number for additional information was previously required inside the mark; many international and transitional U.S. rules now allow marks without it (telephone numbers may still appear nearby or remain acceptable during transition periods through late 2026 in some regimes).
Print in color so the red border is clear and durable. Affix the mark securely on the outer packaging so it remains visible.
Where to Get a Legitimate Free Printable UN3481 Label?
Reliable free resources exist from official or open sources. Do not rely on random image search results or unverified blogs that may show outdated or non-compliant designs.
- Download a printable reproduction of the IATA-style lithium battery mark (including UN3481 versions sized for A4 or letter paper) from the Internet Archive: https://archive.org/details/iata-lithium-battery-mark. The files are released under CC0 and can be printed and cut to size.
- The German electrical industry association ZVEI publishes a free guidance leaflet with full-scale battery mark templates (including UN 3481 for batteries packed with or contained in equipment). Cut outside the red hatching: ZVEI Leaflet No. 36 PDF.
For authoritative U.S. rules and diagrams of required marks and labels, consult PHMSA’s official Lithium Battery Guide for Shippers (updated October 2024): https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/training/hazmat/lithium-battery-guide-shippers. The guide walks through different configurations (contained in equipment vs. packed with equipment, size thresholds, modes of transport) and shows when the lithium battery mark, Class 9 label, proper shipping name, and other marks apply.
Commercial pre-printed or customizable compliant labels (paper or film) are widely available from specialty suppliers if you prefer ready-made durable stock rather than home printing.
Free Printable UN3481 Lithium Battery Label
Practical Tips for Using a Free Printable UN3481 Label
- Print at actual size on high-quality paper or adhesive label stock. Confirm dimensions after printing.
- Use color ink for the red border. Black-and-white is not sufficient.
- Place the mark on a contrasting background so it is legible.
- For fully regulated shipments you may also need the Class 9 lithium battery hazard label (diamond) and, for certain air shipments, a Cargo Aircraft Only label.
- Protect batteries against short circuits, secure equipment, and use appropriate packaging. Damaged, defective, or recalled batteries have stricter rules.
- Keep records of the UN 38.3 test summary for the cells/batteries when required.
- When in doubt, contact the Hazardous Materials Information Center (1-800-467-4922) or a dangerous-goods specialist. Carrier-specific rules (UPS, FedEx, USPS, airlines) may add extra restrictions.
FAQ
Is a free printable UN3481 label legally sufficient?
Yes, if it meets the size, color, design, and content specifications in the current regulations and is applied correctly. Home-printed labels work for many excepted shipments; high-volume or fully regulated shippers often prefer durable commercial labels.
Do I still need a phone number on the mark?
Many current rules (and the PHMSA enforcement approach during harmonization) no longer require the telephone number inside the mark itself. Check the latest IATA/ICAO, ADR, IMDG, and 49 CFR provisions for your mode and destination.
What is the difference between UN3480 and UN3481?
UN3480 covers lithium-ion batteries shipped alone. UN3481 covers those packed with or contained in equipment.
Where can I confirm the latest U.S. requirements?
Start with the PHMSA Lithium Battery Guide linked above and the official Hazardous Materials Regulations.
Always double-check the specific packing instruction, special provisions, and carrier acceptance rules for your shipment. A correctly applied free printable UN3481 label is a practical first step toward compliant and safe transport of lithium-ion batteries in equipment.