Guide · ADR · Tech
Lithium battery export from Spain: ADR Class 9 in practice
Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere — cells, power packs, cordless tools, e-bikes, electronics with embedded batteries. Under ADR, they're Class 9 dangerous goods. Here's what you supply and what your carrier does.
4 min read
Which UN numbers apply
UN 3480 — lithium-ion batteries shipped by themselves.
UN 3481 — lithium-ion batteries contained in equipment (e.g., laptop shipped with battery installed) or packed with equipment.
UN 3090 / 3091 — lithium metal batteries (the non-rechargeable kind, less common in consumer electronics).
Your SDS will state which UN number applies; if it doesn't, request one from your manufacturer or packager.
Packaging requirements
Cells and batteries must be in UN-approved packaging appropriate to the UN number and Packing Instruction (e.g., PI 965, 967 for UN 3480 / 3481 depending on air-or-road and size category).
Terminals must be protected against short-circuit. Exposed terminals in loose packaging is the single most common shipping defect.
Packaging must be marked with the Class 9 hazard label and the lithium battery mark (the specific pictogram).
What we prepare
Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) with correct UN number and packing group.
CMR with ADR markings.
Driver's written instructions in the relevant language.
Segregation check — most Class 9 batteries can share a trailer with non-ADR cargo, but not always with other ADR classes.
Transit notes
Most Spain → EU lanes carry lithium batteries without issue.
Tunnel restrictions (ADR tunnel codes) may alter routing on alpine and some urban passes — our dispatch builds this into route planning.
Damaged or defective lithium batteries have stricter rules (special packaging, sometimes dedicated transport). If any cells in your shipment are damaged, tell us before booking.
Related
How do I ship lithium batteries from Spain to Europe by road?
Lithium batteries are classified as ADR Class 9 dangerous goods (UN3481 for batteries packed with equipment, UN3480 for standalone batteries). SAVA Logistic accepts both classifications on all 16 corridors. Requirements include proper UN-tested packaging, lithium battery handling marks, ADR transport documents, and a trained ADR driver. Quantities under the limited quantity threshold may qualify for simplified packaging requirements.
- •Classified as ADR Class 9: UN3481 (with equipment) or UN3480 (standalone)
- •UN-tested packaging and lithium battery handling marks required
- •ADR transport documents and trained ADR driver mandatory
- •Limited quantity shipments may qualify for simplified requirements
Ready to move a load from Spain?
Get a 24h written quote →