Air Transport Identification Report for Lithium Batteries

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Air Transport Identification Report for Lithium Batteries: Full Compliance Guide

Editor:ESTL Category:Technical information Release time:2026-03-25 Click volume:4

Introduction

Air transport is the fastest way for lithium batteries to reach global markets.But many companies hold a valid UN38.3 Test Reportand still get rejected by airlines, freight forwarders or couriers.

The missing key document:Air Transport Condition Identification Report.

This guide explains what it is, how it differs from UN38.3,and why you must have both for air shipping lithium batteries.

1. What is the Air Transport Identification Report?

The Air Transport Condition Identification Reportis an official document issued by a CAAC-accredited third-party laboratory.It classifies the hazard level of lithium batteries and defines packaging, handling and labeling rules for air transport.

Core content:

Proper Shipping Name: e.g. “Lithium ion battery pack, UN3480”
Hazard Class: Class 9 Dangerous Goods
Packaging Group
Packaging Instruction: PI 965, PI 966, PI 967, etc.
Handling requirements: state of charge, short-circuit protection, labeling
Validity: normally 1 year

2. Air Transport Report vs UN38.3 Report

They complement each other — neither replaces the other.

表格

Item	UN38.3 Test Report	Air Transport Identification Report
Nature	Safety test report	Transport condition certification
Purpose	Proves battery passes 8 safety tests	Confirms goods meet air transport rules
Validity	No fixed expiry; retest on changes	1 year, must renew annually
Use	Customs, platform audit, transport filing	Airline acceptance, forwarder booking, airport security
Basis	UN38.3 standard	IATA DGR, ICAO TI

Simple summary:UN38.3 proves the battery is safe.Air Transport Report proves the shipment is ready for flight.

3. Why the Air Transport Report Is Mandatory

Airline requirementAll lithium batteries for air transport must have this report under IATA DGR.Airlines will refuse cargo without it.
Airport security checkAirport security inspects the report closely.Information must match outer labels and airway bill.Mismatch leads to detention or inspection.
Freight forwarder prerequisiteProfessional forwarders require a valid reportto issue the Dangerous Goods Declaration and book space.
Cross‑border e‑commerce complianceDHL, FedEx, UPS and FBA inbound logisticsall require the Air Transport Report.Missing it causes returns and store penalties.

4. Common Misunderstandings

Myth 1: UN38.3 = Air Transport Report

Fact: They serve different purposes.UN38.3 is the “safety certificate”;the Air Transport Report is the “boarding pass”.

Myth 2: One report works for all transport modes

Fact: This report is for air only.Sea transport requires a separate Sea Transport Report (IMDG Code).

Myth 3: Expired report can still be used

Fact: Validity is usually 1 year, matching the annual IATA DGR update.Old reports may not reflect current rules.

Myth 4: Same model = same report forever

Fact: Valid only if model, packaging and SOC (state of charge) unchanged.If packaging or transport status changes, a new report is required.

5. How to Apply Correctly

Step 1: Prepare UN38.3 Test Report

The Air Transport Report requires a valid UN38.3 report.

Step 2: Provide packaging & samples

UN38.3 report
Actual shipping packaging (outer carton, inner box, cushioning)
Battery samples matching UN38.3 model
Target SOC (normally ≤30%)

Step 3: Use an accredited laboratory

Choose a CNAS‑qualified lab familiar with the latest IATA DGR rules.

Step 4: Manage your report

Save digital copies for forwarders and platforms
Keep a printed copy in the shipment
Renew 1–2 months before expiry to avoid delays

Conclusion

The Air Transport Identification Report is thefinal mandatory step for lithium battery air shipment.Without it, even the best batteries cannot be shipped by air.

If you need support for lithium battery air transportor the Air Transport Identification Report,contact us for professional, one‑stop compliance service.

Label: Air Transport Identification Report UN38.3 vs air transport report dangerous goods air transport lithium battery air shipping lithium battery air freight IATA DGR UN3480 PI 965

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