Smaller Lithium Battery Labeling Changes to Watch for in 2026

Loren Larson
Feb 15
2 min read

Shipping lithium batteries has always required careful attention to safety and regulatory compliance. Starting in 2026, new labeling requirements for smaller lithium batteries will take effect, impacting shippers across industries. These changes aim to improve safety during transport and provide clearer information for handlers and emergency responders. Understanding these updates now will help avoid costly mistakes and delays.

What Are the New Labeling Requirements?

The updated rules focus on lithium batteries with a watt-hour rating of 100 Wh or less, commonly found in consumer electronics, medical devices, and small equipment. Key changes include:

New label design: The existing lithium battery handling label will be replaced with a clearer, standardized symbol that includes a battery icon and a flame symbol to emphasize fire risk. The updated version, removing the telephone number requirement, is now in use, with a phaseout date for older marked labels on December 31, 2026.
Size and placement: Labels must be larger and placed on the outer packaging where they are easily visible. This helps handlers quickly identify packages containing lithium batteries.
Additional markings: Packages must include the battery’s watt-hour rating or lithium content, depending on the battery type. This information supports emergency responders in assessing risks.
Language requirements: Labels must include text in English and the local language of the shipping origin or destination, improving clarity in international shipments.

These changes align with updates from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the United Nations Model Regulations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods.

Why Are These Changes Important?

Smaller lithium batteries have caused fires during transport due to short circuits or damage. The new labeling helps reduce these risks by:

Making packages easier to identify and handle properly
Providing emergency responders with critical information quickly
Encouraging shippers to verify battery specifications before shipping

For example, a shipment of lithium-ion batteries for portable medical devices must now clearly show the watt-hour rating on the label. This allows airline staff to apply the correct handling procedures and avoid incidents.

How Shippers Can Prepare

To comply with the 2026 labeling changes, shippers should:

Review current inventory: Identify all products containing lithium batteries under 100 Wh.
Update packaging: Source new labels that meet size, design, and language requirements. Use of the older marked labels must be phaseout by December 31, 2026.
Train staff: Ensure warehouse and shipping teams understand the new labels and their importance.
Coordinate with carriers: Confirm that logistics partners are aware of the changes and have updated their procedures.
Check regulations regularly: Lithium battery rules evolve frequently, so stay informed about any further updates.