An encyclopedia for dangerous goods logistics / Classes of dangerous goods

4A refers to a UN packaging code that describes a steel box. This hazardous materials packaging is designed for particularly rugged applications where mechanical strength and leak-tightness are required. 4A boxes are typically used for transporting individual, defective batteries and must be tested and marked in accordance with UN approval requirements.

4H is the UN marking for plastic boxes or canisters. These containers are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and versatile. They are used for transporting less critical lithium batteries or other hazardous materials where low weight and chemical resistance are key considerations. They must also meet the requirements of UN type testing.

50A is a UN-defined packaging code for large steel containers. This type of packaging is used for the transport of large quantities of dangerous goods, particularly when high mechanical requirements apply. In the field of battery logistics, 50A containers are frequently used for the transport of damaged or critical lithium batteries. They must be approved in accordance with ADR and verified through a type test.

UN Code 50H refers to large plastic packaging. It is used in the hazardous materials sector when a chemically resistant yet lighter packaging solution is required. 50H packaging is suitable for various hazardous materials, including lithium batteries, provided there are no extreme mechanical requirements. Like all UN packaging, it is subject to type testing and approval.

This regulation is also known as the “European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road”. The ADR (Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) regulates the transport of dangerous goods. This includes, among other things, the classification of dangerous goods, the labeling and marking of dangerous goods shipments, the documentation requirements for such shipments, the construction and testing regulations for containers, and the transport of dangerous goods via various modes of transport.

In addition, the ADR also regulates the requirements for persons involved in the transport. For example, it stipulates that in many cases the driver must hold an ADR certificate (hazardous goods driver’s license).

The ADR applies in over 50 countries. Currently (as of 2025), these are: Albania, Andorra, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Greece, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Kazakhstan, Croatia, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Morocco, North Macedonia, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Norway, Austria, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of Moldova, Romania, the Russian Federation, San Marino, Sweden, Switzerland, Serbia, the Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Tajikistan, Turkey, Tunisia, the Czech Republic, Ukraine, Hungary, Uzbekistan, the United Kingdom, and Cyprus.

A rechargeable battery is referred to as an accumulator. The accumulator (also abbreviated as “battery”) operates on an electrochemical principle. During charging, electrical energy is converted into chemical energy and stored accordingly. During discharge, the energy is reversibly released.

An accumulator is typically constructed from several secondary cells, i.e., rechargeable storage cells. The cells are connected in series or in parallel. Accordingly, circuit configurations consisting of a combination of parallel and series connections can also be implemented. This allows the energy capacity of the entire accumulator to be increased. Unlike secondary cells, primary cells are not rechargeable.

An accumulator is often also referred to as a battery. Colloquially, the term “battery” is used to describe individual or interconnected primary or secondary cells. This is also reflected in English, where an accumulator is typically referred to as a “(rechargeable) battery.”

Typical accumulators:

• Lead-acid battery
• Lithium-ion battery
• Lithium-polymer battery

In the context of batteries, the anode is the positive terminal.

In lithium-ion batteries, the anode typically consists of a thin copper foil. Various chemical compositions are applied to this foil. Currently, combinations of nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC), nickel-aluminum-cobalt (NCA), and lithium iron phosphate (LFP) are predominantly used. So-called blends, such as NCMA (nickel-manganese-cobalt-aluminum), are also increasingly being used. These different compositions are also referred to as cell chemistries and are decisive for the characteristics of the cell and, consequently, the entire battery.

The anode material is one of the key components of a battery and is located on the anode side (negative electrode). In lithium-ion batteries, the anode material is often made of graphite. It plays a crucial role in the storage and release of electrical energy during the battery’s charging and discharging cycles. The development of efficient anode materials is critical to battery performance.

The BAM is a German federal agency under the jurisdiction of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. It is responsible for safety issues related to technical materials and processes, particularly in the field of dangerous goods transport. The BAM issues technical guidelines such as BAM-GGR 001, accredits testing bodies, and monitors their activities within the framework of dangerous goods legislation. It does not conduct tests itself, but ensures that tests are carried out by recognized testing bodies in accordance with legal requirements. Furthermore, it plays a central role in the recognition and certification of packaging for the transport of dangerous goods and is regarded both nationally and internationally as a recognized authority on safety-related issues.

BAM-GGR 024 is a technical guideline issued by the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing that specifically addresses the testing and evaluation of large transportable packaging for lithium batteries. It applies in particular when batteries are to be transported that are damaged, defective, critical, or unclassified and are therefore not fully covered by international dangerous goods regulations such as the ADR.

The guideline specifies concrete requirements for the design, material behavior, and safety-related properties of the packaging. These include, among other things, drop, stacking, and lifting pressure tests. It also defines the documentation requirements and specifications for test reports.

BAM-GGR 024 thus serves as a supplementary basis for risk assessment and ensuring the transport suitability of packaging solutions for lithium batteries and is used by LogBATT GmbH as a testing standard for such dangerous goods packaging.

A battery pass is a document or label that contains information about a battery. This may include details on the type of battery, chemical components, recycling options, and other relevant information. The battery pass is intended to provide transparency regarding the battery’s life cycle and to facilitate environmentally sound disposal.

“Battery storage” is the general term for any type of rechargeable storage system that efficiently stores electrical energy and makes it available again when needed. Battery storage systems are used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings—regardless of the energy source used, such as solar power, grid electricity, or wind power.

BEV stands for Battery Electric Vehicle. This term refers to all-electric vehicles that draw their power from a battery.

This class includes substances and articles that can cause an explosion. These may be solid, liquid, gel-like, or powdered substances that produce a violent reaction.

These include gases and gas mixtures consisting of one or more substances. They may be flammable, toxic, oxidizing, corrosive, or asphyxiating, and are accordingly designated with different initial letters. Examples include butane, propane, and nitrogen.

Class 3 dangerous goods include flammable substances and articles that pose a risk once they reach a certain core temperature or pressure level. Common examples include gasoline, ethanol, and acetone.

This class includes solids capable of igniting upon friction, impact, fire, or other sources of ignition. Under certain conditions, they may cause hazardous reactions. Examples of flammable solids include magnesium, aluminum dust, phosphorus, and certain metal powders.

Class 5 hazardous materials include oxidizing substances, such as acetone or ethyl alcohol. They can release or promote the release of oxygen, thereby supporting the combustion of other substances. Oxidizing substances can promote ignition and cause severe fires. Organic peroxides, on the other hand, are unstable compounds that can be highly flammable and explosive. Examples include hydrogen peroxide, ammonium nitrate, and potassium permanganate.

These Class 6 substances can be harmful or fatal if inhaled, swallowed, or if they come into contact with the skin or eyes. A distinction is made between toxic substances, which can cause acute or chronic health problems, and infectious substances, which can potentially cause infections.

Dangerous goods class 7 includes substances that emit ionizing radiation, which pose health risks to humans and the environment. Radioactive substances can emit various types of radiation, such as alpha, beta, and gamma radiation. They are commonly found in nuclear power plants, medical applications, and research facilities.

Corrosive substances are included in this category. They can destroy or corrode living tissue and materials upon contact and cause severe skin and eye injuries. In some cases, they can even be life-threatening. Examples include sulfuric acid, caustic soda, hydrochloric acid, and corrosive cleaning agents.

Class 9 of the ADR covers various hazardous substances and articles, such as lithium batteries, which can pose a hazard during transport. This class includes all substances that cannot be classified under any of the other eight classes. As a result of this classification, packaging used to transport lithium batteries must be marked with an ADR-compliant label.

Critical raw materials are raw materials that are essential for the manufacture of high-tech products and key technologies, but are also of great economic and strategic importance. In the context of batteries, certain materials such as lithium, cobalt, or rare earth elements can be considered critical raw materials.

Drop and stacking pressure tests are essential testing procedures as part of the type testing of packaging for dangerous goods. The drop test simulates the packaging falling from a specified height to assess its resistance to mechanical stress. The stacking pressure test simulates the load exerted by other packages stacked on top of one another during transport or storage.

In addition, for certain packaging solutions—such as those used for lithium batteries—a lifting pressure test is also conducted. This test verifies whether the packaging, when fully loaded, can be safely lifted with a forklift or industrial truck without deformation or structural failure.

All of the aforementioned test procedures serve to demonstrate that the packaging ensures the safety of the hazardous goods even under realistic transport conditions. They are required by law and are conducted in accordance with established standards—for example, by accredited testing laboratories under the supervision of the relevant authorities.

End-of-life management refers to the entire process that takes place with products or materials after the end of their useful life. In the case of batteries, this includes the collection, recycling, reprocessing, and safe disposal of batteries to minimize environmental impact and recover valuable raw materials.

An energy storage system is a technical system designed to temporarily store energy of any kind. This can include, for example, electrical, thermal, or mechanical energy. In the energy sector, such storage systems are specifically used to ensure both the security of supply and the stability of the power grid on a long-term basis.

Our LogCOVERs are used as fire-resistant covers in the LogBATT SafetyBATTbox L and XL models. The LogCOVER is designed to enhance safety in the event of a battery fire and is available in two different sizes. LogCOVER L [LxWxH]: 1600 x 1200 x 25 mm LogCOVER XL [LxWxH]: 3000 x 2000 x 25 mm

According to ADR P911 and LP906, packaging for critical defective batteries must undergo an additional test. This test consists of a real-world fire test. For this purpose, a lithium-ion battery must undergo a complete thermal runaway reaction inside a box. Among other things, the fire test determines which batteries may be transported in the respective box.

LogBATT GmbH is officially authorized to independently conduct fire tests based on our established procedures and to evaluate the results on its own.

Pass criteria are:

• Surface temperature <100 °C
• No fragments outside the package
• No flames outside the package
• Flue gas management (if applicable)
• Structural integrity

Green batteries are new lithium-ion batteries or batteries as defined in Special Provision 377. This includes lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries that are being transported for disposal or recycling. They may be packed with or without other batteries. The packaging of green batteries must comply with Packaging Instruction P909, subsection 4.1.4.1.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is an association of airlines that, among other things, develops binding standards for the transport and handling of air cargo. Global air cargo traffic is largely conducted in accordance with IATA guidelines. IATA standards primarily focus on the standardization of freight documents, the use of abbreviations, and the harmonization of handling processes.

The IMDG Code is an international agreement that establishes the regulations for dangerous goods in maritime transport. It provides guidelines for the packaging, labeling, and transport of dangerous goods by sea.

LFP batteries (lithium iron phosphate) do not contain any critical raw materials such as cobalt or nickel. They offer improved thermal stability and longer service life. Typical applications include stationary energy storage systems, electric buses, and, increasingly, electric passenger cars, where safety and durability are paramount. LFP batteries are steadily gaining importance due to their specific advantages.

Lithium batteries are non-rechargeable batteries with a simple cell chemistry: the chemical reaction proceeds in only one direction and ends when the battery is fully discharged. Since no charging cycle is intended, the design of these batteries is technically less complex—for example, without protection circuits or temperature management. Lithium batteries are primarily used in devices with low power consumption and long operating times. Unlike lithium-ion batteries, they are not suitable for continuous operation.

Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable energy storage devices that are primarily used in electric vehicles, consumer electronics, and stationary energy systems. They are based on reversible cell chemistry: during charging and discharging, lithium ions migrate between the anode and cathode, enabling repeated use. Lithium-ion batteries are characterized by high energy density, a long service life, and high efficiency. Unlike lithium batteries, they are specifically designed for applications with high energy demands and cyclic charging behavior.

A monitoring contract is concluded between a packaging manufacturer and a notified body—such as the BAM or a recognized testing laboratory. It governs the continuous monitoring of the series production of packaging for dangerous goods that has received UN approval. The aim is to ensure that every piece of packaging produced conforms to the tested and approved type.

Surveillance takes the form of regular audits, inspections, and random sampling. Such a contract is a prerequisite for packaging to be permanently marked with a UN marking and used in the transport of dangerous goods. As part of this surveillance, a QSP certification (Quality Surveillance Program) is also conducted. This confirms that the manufacturer’s quality assurance system meets the requirements of the surveillance. The surveillance contract is thus a central component in ensuring quality, safety, and legal compliance in the transport of dangerous goods.

NMC batteries (nickel-manganese-cobalt) belong to the family of lithium-ion batteries and are characterized by their high energy density. This property makes them particularly attractive for applications where maximum range is required in a limited space. First-generation electric vehicles often rely on this technology, as do high-performance stationary energy storage systems.

Under the notification procedure, waste must be pre-checked before the shipment begins and for each waste shipment. The exporter must apply to the competent authority in their country of origin for the planned shipment of waste using a notification form, a movement document, and any other required documentation. Transboundary shipments of waste are only permitted if the competent authorities at the point of dispatch (exporting country) and at the destination (importing country) have given their prior written consent. Authorities responsible for transit (transit countries) must have given at least tacit consent. The consents of all authorities must be submitted collectively and are valid for one year. For recovery facilities with prior consent, this period may be extended to up to three years.

The take-back obligation refers to the legal requirement for manufacturers to take back certain products at the end of their useful life. Manufacturers are responsible for collecting and disposing of batteries in order to minimize environmental impact and ensure proper disposal.

P911 and LP906 are special provisions for the transport of lithium-ion batteries under ADR 2019. P911 outlines the requirements for the worst-case scenario to secure damaged batteries. LP906, on the other hand, sets high standards for battery transport, particularly for critically defective lithium-ion batteries.

A photovoltaic storage system is an energy storage solution specifically designed for the efficient temporary storage of solar power generated by a photovoltaic system. It reliably ensures that the electricity you generate yourself can also be used outside of peak sunlight hours. This is particularly useful for households that consume relatively little electricity during the day.

Disposal certificates are required when waste generators dispose of hazardous waste. These certificates confirm the validity of the intended disposal methods. Only after the disposal operator’s regulatory authority has approved this certificate may the waste be disposed of via this method—that is, at the disposal facility specified therein. Each certificate bears a unique nationwide number.

There are essentially two types of disposal certificates: Waste generators with smaller waste volumes of less than 20 tons per year per waste code, per year, and per address can contact a transporter who holds a collective disposal certificate and has thus already clarified the permissible disposal route. For the generator, a transfer receipt issued by the transporter (= collective disposal operator) is then sufficient as documentation. For waste quantities exceeding 20 tons of hazardous waste per waste code, per year, and per address, however, an individual disposal certificate applied for by the waste generator is mandatory. In addition—unlike with the collective disposal certificate—the waste generator must participate in the electronic waste tracking system (eANV).

RID is a set of regulations governing the international transport of dangerous goods by rail. Similar to ADR, RID regulates the transport of dangerous goods by rail and contains specific safety provisions.

Secondary raw materials are materials that are recovered from used products or waste. In the context of batteries, this refers to the recovery of materials from old or end-of-life batteries for use in the manufacture of new batteries or other products. The recovery of secondary raw materials from batteries contributes to resource conservation and the circular economy.

Some examples of secondary raw materials that can be recovered from this process include:

• Lithium: Lithium is a key component in many batteries, particularly in lithium-ion batteries. Through battery recycling, lithium compounds can be recovered and reused in battery production.
• Cobalt: Cobalt is used in some types of batteries, particularly lithium-ion batteries. Recycling allows cobalt compounds to be recovered from old batteries, thereby reducing the need for newly mined cobalt.
• Nickel: Nickel is another metal found in various types of batteries, including nickel-cadmium batteries and nickel-metal hydride batteries. Recycling enables the recovery of nickel-containing compounds.
• Copper: Copper is frequently used as a conductor material in electric vehicle batteries and other types of batteries. Recycling batteries helps recover copper for reuse.
• Aluminum: Aluminum is used as an anode material in some battery types. Recycling batteries enables the recovery of aluminum compounds.
• Graphite: Graphite is often used in the anodes of lithium-ion batteries. Through recycling, graphite compounds can be recovered from old batteries and reused.

A solar battery stores the excess electrical energy generated by a photovoltaic system. This makes it possible to use the self-generated solar power at a later time, for example during bad weather or after sunset, when the system generates less solar power than is needed.

The term “storage battery” is used synonymously with “battery storage” and describes a system that stores electrical energy and makes it available again when needed. Typical applications include situations where stored electricity is to be used for specific purposes—such as optimizing self-consumption or bridging load peaks.

Storage containers are protective products designed specifically for warehouse use. In terms of their design and functional characteristics, they are optimized for stationary use with maximum safety, which distinguishes them from transport containers. Modern storage containers, such as those in our LogBATT range, feature a modular design that can be supplemented with partition walls or grating.

Our products include storage containers for batteries, cells, and modules that can be used not only for storage but also as evacuation and storage containers. The containers can be easily operated by a single person and do not require firefighting water, as in an emergency fire and projectiles remain inside the box. The stackable boxes thus become ideal containment containers. Firefighting water, as defined by the Firefighting Water Retention Ordinance, does not need to be collected, as none is produced. Furthermore, all of our emergency and quarantine containers have been successfully tested in a real-world fire test with up to 232 kWh. The containers are weatherproof, and can be used outdoors without any issues. An efficient gas management system, similar to that in our transport boxes, effectively filters the majority of gases.

An electricity storage system is specifically designed for the reliable storage of electric energy. Unlike the more general term “energy storage,” this type of system focuses exclusively on the efficient storage of electricity. Electricity storage systems are used, among other things, in combination with renewable energy sources to make generated electricity available on a delayed basis and ensure flexible access.

Thermal runaway, or a battery fire, occurs when overheating in one cell spreads to adjacent cells, triggering a kind of chain reaction. This releases significant amounts of energy simultaneously. It is one of the greatest safety risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. Thermal runaway in batteries is a particularly important concern for electric vehicles. Battery fires pose a significant danger to people and the environment.

LogBATT transport containers are fire safety and security products designed to reliably transport hazardous materials classified under UN Class 9, such as damaged or critically defective lithium-ion batteries. The containers, which have been tested in real-fire conditions, differ from storage containers due to their particularly robust construction and specific design for transport by trucks, vans, construction vehicles, and other vehicle types.

All officially approved containers in our range are QSP-certified and do not require additional inner packaging. The containers are suitable for outdoor use and maintenance-free. Manufactured in various sizes in accordance with the latest hazardous materials regulations, batteries from e-bikes and e-scooters, construction equipment, home electronics, and other electrical items also find a safe place in a specially designed transport container.

Type-approval testing is a key component of the certification of packaging for the transport of dangerous goods. It is conducted to ensure that packaging complies with legal requirements—in particular those of ADR, RID, IMDG, and IATA. During this process, a specific sample of the packaging (the “type”) is subjected to various tests, including drop and stacking pressure tests as well as lifting pressure tests. The latter serve to demonstrate that the packaging can be safely lifted with a forklift or industrial truck when fully loaded. Only after passing the type test does the packaging receive UN approval, identifiable by the UN marking. This test may be mandated exclusively by the authorities or the BAM and is a prerequisite for the commercial use of packaging in the hazardous materials sector.

The UN 38.3 test is an internationally mandated testing procedure for assessing the safety of lithium cells and batteries. It is part of the UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods and ensures that lithium batteries can withstand the stresses that may occur during transport—regardless of the mode of transport.

Before being transported for the first time, every battery or cell type must successfully pass a series of standardized tests, including:

• Altitude simulation (low air pressure)
• Temperature changes
• Vibration
• Shock
• External short circuit
• Impact or crushing
• Overcharge
• Forced discharge
  

The purpose of the UN 38.3 test is to eliminate risks such as fire, explosion, or leakage in advance. Only lithium cells and batteries that pass this test may be transported in accordance with international dangerous goods regulations. Successful completion must be documented in a test report, which must be provided to authorities, logistics partners, or customers upon request.

UN 3480 is the official hazardous materials number for lithium-ion batteries that are transported or stored individually—that is, neither installed in a device nor packed with a device. This number serves to uniquely identify a hazardous substance or article in international regulations such as ADR, IMDG, and IATA.

Lithium-ion batteries classified under UN 3480 are considered high-risk, particularly with regard to short circuits, fire hazards, or thermal runaway. For this reason, they are subject to strict regulations regarding state of charge, packaging, labeling, and testing requirements—including the UN 38.3 test. Both the transport and storage of these batteries are permitted only in compliance with specific dangerous goods regulations.

This UN number applies to lithium-ion batteries that are either installed in a device or transported in packaging together with a device. Compared to UN 3480, the requirements are slightly less stringent, as the device acts as an additional layer of protection. Nevertheless, specific requirements must still be met, particularly in air transport: These include certified packaging, clear labeling, and documentation of transport safety. UN 3481 is particularly relevant for manufacturers and retailers of electronic devices with built-in batteries.

UN 3090 is the official dangerous goods number for lithium metal batteries that are transported or stored individually—that is, without a device. These batteries contain metallic lithium and thus differ significantly from lithium-ion batteries. Due to lithium’s high reactivity, particularly strict safety requirements apply to UN 3090. These include regulations regarding state of charge, packaging, labeling, and compliance with the UN 38.3 test. Storage and transport are permitted only in compliance with applicable dangerous goods regulations such as ADR, IMDG, or IATA.

UN 3091 applies to the transport of lithium metal batteries that are either integrated into the device or shipped together with the device. Lithium metal batteries differ from lithium-ion batteries chemically and in terms of safety and are more sensitive to external influences. Transport under this UN number is therefore subject to specific regulations, such as those regarding quantity, packaging type, and safety certifications. UN 3091 is frequently used in devices with low energy requirements, such as medical devices or measuring instruments.

UN 3551 is the official hazardous materials number for sodium batteries that are damaged or defective. These batteries contain metallic sodium or sodium compounds, which are highly reactive and can react violently upon contact with water. As damaged or defective batteries, they also pose an increased risk of short circuits, leaks, or thermal reactions. Transport under UN 3551 is subject to strict requirements regarding packaging, labeling, and documentation. Transport is permitted only in approved packaging and in compliance with international regulations such as ADR or IMDG.

UN 3552 is the official hazardous materials number for critical sodium batteries. This classification applies to batteries that pose an increased risk of hazardous behavior—such as fire, leakage, or explosion—due to damage, malfunction, or unclear responsibility. This includes batteries with thermal or mechanical damage where a safe condition cannot be clearly determined. The UN 3552 designation serves to clearly identify these batteries under international dangerous goods regulations such as ADR or IMDG and applies to transportation, storage, and internal safety measures. UN 3552 is subject to particularly stringent requirements regarding packaging, handling, and documentation. Handling such batteries is permitted only under strict safety guidelines.

VdS Information Sheet 3103 contains recommendations for the safest possible storage of lithium-ion batteries. You can find the information sheet here.

Currently (as of October 2025), there are no legal regulations in Germany governing the storage of lithium-ion batteries. In contrast to storage, road transport is regulated by law under the ADR.

Based on the Waste Catalogue Ordinance (AVV), a waste code number is used to classify waste. The number consists of three pairs of digits.

With regard to lithium-ion batteries as waste, LogBATT GmbH is authorized under §54 of the Waste Management Act (KrWG) to transport waste—under the code numbers 16 06 05 “other batteries and accumulators” (e.g., lithium-ion batteries) and 16 01 21 “hazardous waste” batteries – for the purpose of disposal.

Yellow batteries are lithium-ion batteries that are transported in accordance with Special Provision 376. This includes batteries that are damaged or defective. In addition to leaking and externally damaged batteries, this also includes batteries that cannot be diagnosed prior to transport. For yellow batteries, the packaging instructions P908 and LP904 must be followed.